1940 German-Occupied Poland Red Cross Stamp Set-Krakau Special Cancel-Generalgouvernement

Original 1940 German General Government Red Cross postal souvenir piece from Krakau (Kraków), occupied Poland, featuring the complete four-stamp charity set issued for the German Red Cross war relief effort.

The front is printed:

“Deutsche Post Osten”
and
“Kriegshilfswerk für das Deutsche Rote Kreuz”
meaning “War Relief Work for the German Red Cross.”

The featured stamp is tied by a large commemorative KRAKAU 17/18.8.40 cancellation incorporating the German eagle and swastika and the wording “Für das Deutsche Rote Kreuz” (“For the German Red Cross”).

The reverse displays the complete four-stamp Red Cross issue from the General Government:

• 12 + 8 Groschen – Jagiellonian University / Kraków courtyard scene
• 24 + 16 Groschen – Wawel Castle complex
• 50 + 50 Groschen – Kraków Town Hall Tower
• 80 + 80 Groschen – St. Mary’s Church, Kraków

The set was officially issued on August 17, 1940, with the additional surcharge benefiting the Red Cross. (German Stamps⁠)

Historical Significance

Following the German invasion of Poland in 1939, occupied central and southern Polish territories were administered as the Generalgouvernement (General Government). Special postage stamps were produced for use within this German-controlled territory. (USHMM Collections⁠)

This Red Cross charity issue was released on August 17, 1940, and consists of four values, now cataloged as Michel Nos. 52–55. (German Stamps⁠)

The Krakau special cancellation dated 17/18 August 1940 is especially appealing because it falls directly at the time of issue, giving the piece strong philatelic and WWII postal-history interest.

Condition

Very good original condition for an approximately 85-year-old postal collectible.

The card/envelope shows light age toning, minor handling wear, and a small amount of surface discoloration. The stamps retain strong color and detail, and the prominent Krakau commemorative cancellation remains crisp and clearly visible.

The reverse-mounted stamps appear clean and well preserved.

Please examine all photographs carefully for exact condition.

Collector Highlights

• Original 1940 WWII-era postal collectible
• German-occupied Poland / Generalgouvernement
• Complete four-value Red Cross charity stamp set
• Krakau 17/18.8.40 special cancellation
• German eagle and swastika cancellation
• “Für das Deutsche Rote Kreuz” inscription
• “Kriegshilfswerk für das Deutsche Rote Kreuz” printed cover
• Strong Kraków / occupied Poland historical connection
• Attractive WWII philatelic display piece

Sold strictly as an original historical and philatelic collectible.