Issued by the Deutsche Bundespost in 1989, this commemorative stamp marks the centenary of Germany’s gesetzliche Rentenversicherung (statutory pension insurance), established in 1889 under Chancellor Otto von Bismarck. The design illustrates population pyramids for 1889, 1989, and a projection for 2000, showing shifts in demographic structure and aging trends. Blue represents men and red represents women, symbolizing the evolution of life expectancy and the growing importance of social security systems. A modern, data-driven design underscores Germany’s commitment to social welfare through a century of change.