Ausser Kurs and Specimen Overprints

Periodically the Swiss postal administration released copies of stamps outside of the normal post office channels, either as educational examples or to satisfy other demands.

The perforated sitting Helvetia series was replaced in 1882 by the cross & numeral and standing Helvetia issues. Perforated sitting Helvetia stamps remained valid for postage until October 1, 1883. After that, until 1887, there was a trade-in period where they could be redeemed at post offices for the new stamps. These traded-in stamps were overprinted “AUSSER KURS” (out of validity) and sold to collectors. After 1887, remaining mint stocks were sold below face value to collectors, resulting in abundant supplies to the present day.

Ausser Kurs

“SPECIMEN” overprint on postage due issues of 1878-1892

“Specimen” overprint on 1938 issue for the International Labor Bureau