1958 East Germany -German Democratic Republic Otto Nuschke Memorial – FDC | Political Leader Tribute
This 1958 First Day Cover from the German Democratic Republic commemorates Otto Nuschke (1883–1957), a prominent East German politician and Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ministers. Featuring a striking red portrait stamp and official “Deutsche Post” embossing, it is a historically significant item for collectors of DDR political and commemorative philately.
Key Points:
- Country: German Democratic Republic (DDR)
- Date of Issue: December 27, 1958 (postmark 27.12.58)
- City of Cancellation: Zittau
- Stamp Value: 20pf
- Theme: Memorial to Otto Nuschke (1883–1957)
- Historical or Cultural Relevance: Honors a key figure in early DDR leadership and the Christian Democratic Union in East Germany
- Estimated Market Value: $6–$15 USD, depending on condition and demand
Product Overview:
The cover displays a single red 20pf portrait stamp of Otto Nuschke with glasses and formal attire, accompanied by the official embossed “Deutsche Post” seal.
Design Elements:
- Red 20pf portrait stamp inscribed “OTTO NUSCHKE 1883–1957”
- Embossed oval “Deutsche Post” logo with symbolic imagery
- Clear circular postmark dated 27.12.58 with “ZITTAU” elements
- “ERSTTAGSBRIEF” text at the bottom
Appeal to Collectors: Appeals to historians and collectors of East German political figures and commemorative issues.
Historical Context:
Issued shortly after Nuschke’s death in 1957, this stamp served as a memorial tribute to the long-time leader of the East German Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Deputy Prime Minister. It was released during a period when the DDR frequently honored its political and cultural figures on postage stamps. The First Day Cover preserves the official postal commemoration of this event in late 1958.
Collectible Value:
Typical Market Value or Rarity: Relatively available as a single-value commemorative but desirable in clean FDC form with sharp postmark.
Who Would Be Interested:
- Collectors of DDR political history
- Specialists in East German commemorative stamps
- Thematic collectors of political leaders and memorials
Unexpected or Notable Details:
The high-contrast red portrait stands out dramatically against the pale envelope, while the raised “Deutsche Post” embossing adds a tactile, official quality. The postmark date (27.12.58) aligns closely with the anniversary of his passing.
Add this rare 1958 German Democratic Republic Otto Nuschke Memorial First Day Cover to your collection today!