Abkhazia Stamps
Abkhazia is a partially recognized state situated in the Caucasus region of Eurasia, bordering the Black Sea. Its postal history is complex, stemming from the collapse of the Soviet Union, leading to a unilateral declaration of independence from Georgia in 1992.
- Issued stamps
- 1993–2010
- Region
- Europe, Eastern Europe
- Currency
- RUB
- Languages
- Abkhaz, Russian
- Issuer type
- Modern postal administration
- Part of
- Georgia
About Abkhazia stamps
Stamps issued by the de facto authorities primarily feature the Cyrillic script, reflecting the dominant language, though Russian is also widely used. Due to its unrecognized status, Abkhazia's postal issues are generally not recognized by the Universal Postal Union, creating a distinct and often politically charged philatelic record separate from Georgian issues.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Abkhazia stamps
- Look for inscriptions in Cyrillic script, often including 'Аҧсны' (Apsny - Abkhazia) or 'Республика Абхазия' (Republic of Abkhazia).
- Many stamps feature local landmarks, national symbols, or themes related to Abkhazian culture and history.
- Early issues may show characteristics of local production, such as perforations or printing quality variations.
Popular series
-
First Issues
1993-1994
Early issues featuring local landmarks, flora, and fauna, often crudely printed, reflecting the nascent state's postal efforts.
-
Local Fauna and Flora
Mid-1990s
A recurring theme depicting the diverse natural beauty of Abkhazia, including animals, birds, and plants native to the region.
-
Historical and Cultural Events
Late 1990s - 2000s
Stamps commemorating significant historical dates, national heroes, and cultural traditions of the Abkhazian people.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- $0.50–$5
- Scarce stamps
- $20–$100+
Most Abkhazian stamps are relatively inexpensive, especially those issued in larger quantities. Rarer issues, particularly early provisional stamps or those with printing errors, can command higher prices. Their unrecognized status by the UPU means they are primarily collected for their philatelic and political interest rather than postal utility.
Catalogs. Abkhazia stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about Abkhazia stamps
Abkhazia stamps are postal issues from the partially recognized state of Abkhazia, which declared independence from Georgia in 1992. These stamps reflect the region's unique political status and cultural identity, primarily featuring Cyrillic inscriptions.
While most Abkhazia stamps are not highly valuable, some early provisional issues, stamps with errors, or those commemorating specific events can be sought after by collectors. Their value is often tied to their philatelic and political significance rather than their postal use, as they are generally not recognized by the Universal Postal Union.
Abkhazia stamps can be identified by their Cyrillic inscriptions, typically including 'Аҧсны' or 'Республика Абхазия'. They often depict local scenery, wildlife, historical figures, or cultural motifs. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
Due to its unrecognized status, Abkhazia's postal issues are not typically listed in major international catalogs like Scott or Stanley Gibbons. However, they are often included in specialized catalogs such as Michel, particularly those focusing on Eastern European or 'phantom' issues, and in dedicated regional catalogs.
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