Stamp language: Secret messages through stamp arrangement
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The language of stamps is an almost forgotten art of conveying coded messages through the arrangement of stamps on a letter. It enjoyed great popularity from around 1870 until the 1960s, especially among lovers - not only in Germany, but also in Austria, Belgium, France, Great Britain and Switzerland.
Origin and distribution
From around 1870, it became widespread in Europe to send secret messages by placing stamps on the envelope. Instructions soon appeared in magazines, on postcards and even in book form. Stamp language thus became a popular means of secret communication for lovers and engaged couples.
Functionality and meanings
Normally, stamps are stuck accurately in the top right-hand corner of the envelope. By deviating from this norm, around 70 variations can be created with one or two stamps, to which certain meanings are assigned. Some examples:
- Stamp tilted to the right: “Heartfelt kisses!”
- Stamp lying on its side: “Never forget me!”
- Stamp upside down: “My heart belongs to you.”
- Stamp diagonally: “I love you.”
The exact meanings could vary depending on the source. The sender and recipient had to be in agreement to avoid misunderstandings. Various books and booklets provided “code books” with the assignments.
