Unionsmarken

Unionsmarken, literally “union marks” in German, is a term used in several German-speaking contexts to describe marks or labels associated with a union. In postal history and philately, the term refers to markings applied to mail or postal documents in connection with a formal postal or political union among states or administrations. These marks can take the form of overprints, handstamps, or embossed seals and were used to indicate a uniform handling, rate arrangements, or official recognition across member territories. The use of such marks often reflects administrative cooperation during the 19th and early 20th centuries and is of interest to collectors for historical and documentary value rather than for face value.

Separately, within labor and social history, Unionsmarken describes labels, seals, or small adhesive stamps used by trade unions on publications, fundraising materials, or merchandise to signal affiliation, authorize distribution, or mobilize support. These marks may appear on newsletters, circulars, badges, or labels and often carry the union’s emblem, name, and year or campaign.

As collectibles, Unionsmarken are valued for their historical context, design, and rarity. Cataloging often focuses on provenance, typography, iconography, and the period of use, with attention to authentication and dating through archival sources and provenance verification.

See also: postal unions, philately, labor union symbols.