Date of use : 1923 Germany

Emil Busch and the Rise of Rapid Aplanat Lens Technology

Emil Busch Optische Anstalt was founded in 1845 by Emil Busch (1820-1888) in Rathenow, Germany. The company initially gained recognition by producing microscopes, telescopes, and other optical instruments. By the end of the 19th century, it had become one of the major optical manufacturers in Germany. With the rise of photography, Emil Busch began producing high-quality lenses for cameras. In 1865, the company developed the "Busch Rapid Aplanat" lens, which was considered revolutionary in the world of photography. This lens allowed for faster exposure times and sharper images, making it an important innovation in the field.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Emil Busch Optische Anstalt continued to produce more sophisticated and advanced photographic lenses. The company designed lenses in various formats and for different applications. It also focused on the production of optical devices, such as binoculars and telescopes, for both military and civilian purposes. In 1927, the majority of the company's shares were acquired by Zeiss. Although the firm continued manufacturing cameras, it stopped producing lenses. After World War II, the company was closed down. In its place, the East German government established the firms VEB Rathenower Optische Werke and VEB Augenoptik "Hermann Duncker."

Stamps on the Card

Brown Stamp (1.00 Mark)

This stamp dates back to the post-World War I era in Germany and bears the inscription "Deutsches Reich" (German Empire). With a nominal value of 1.00 Mark, it was among the high-value stamps commonly used for international mail. The design resembles the standard postage stamps of the German Empire and represents a typical example frequently used during this period. The year 1921 marked the beginning of the hyperinflation era in Germany. These economic conditions led to a rapid increase in postal rates, necessitating the circulation of higher-value stamps. The 1.00 Mark brown stamp was particularly used for international commercial mail, where higher postage fees were required.

Green Stamps (2 Units, Each 0.40 Mark)

In addition, the card features two green stamps, each with a value of 40 Pfennig (0.40 Mark). These stamps also bear the inscription "Deutsches Reich" and served as complementary stamps for standard postal rates. While such low-value stamps were typically used for local mail, in the case of international mail, multiple stamps were combined to meet the required postage. These two green stamps together contributed a total value of 0.80 Mark.

Total Postage and Usage

The combination of the 1.00 Mark brown stamp and two 0.40 Mark green stamps resulted in a total postage fee of 1.80 Marks. This amount covered the cost of sending an international commercial postcard from Germany to Switzerland. The stamps on this card not only reflect the economic and postal conditions of 1921 Germany but also highlight the importance of international trade and communication during this challenging period.

On the back of the card, it is mentioned that gratitude is expressed for the order of a hand-held binocular, and the payment is stated to be made through the Bern Trade Bank.

This item is documented as part of the Photography in Postal History research project.
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