Aachener Bogen

This was the first philatelic issue of the Allied occupation of Germany in the closing months of the Second World War.

Aacherener Bogen, which means Aachen Sheets, were presentation sheets which bore four denominations of Allied military stamps. These were released via the Post Office in Aachen on the 19 March 1945.

The 5, 6, 8 and 12 pfenning values were mounted on sheets with the typewritten inscription 'THE FIRST ALLIED MILITARY STAMPS IN GERMANY - ISSUED BY THE PTT AACHEN'.

It is believed that 3,000 sheets were prepared and postmarked on the day of issue. They were not intended for postal use.

The first sheet was presented to President Roosevelt of the United States, (who had been a philatelist all his adult life)

For Aachen see also Aachen Workers Council.