Albania Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Albania Stamps
Albania, situated in Southeastern Europe on the Balkan Peninsula, possesses a complex postal history marked by periods of Ottoman rule, brief independence, Italian and German occupation during World War II, and subsequent communist governance. Stamps issued throughout its history primarily feature the Albanian language, often employing the Latin script adopted in 1908, though earlier issues may reflect Ottoman administrative influences. The nation's transition from monarchy to a long-lasting communist state under Enver Hoxha significantly impacted stamp themes and postal administration before its re-entry into international postal norms following the early 1990s.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southeastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1913 – present
- Languages:
- Albanian
- Currency:
- ALL
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- issuer:albania.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Albania stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Albania Stamp Series
Skanderbeg Issues (Various periods (e.g., 1920s, 1930s, post-WWII))
Stamps featuring the national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, a recurring motif symbolizing Albanian independence and national identity.
King Zog I Issues (1928-1939)
Definitive and commemorative stamps issued during the reign of King Zog I, often depicting his portrait or royal symbols.
Communist Era Issues (1945-1990)
Stamps reflecting socialist realism, industrial and agricultural achievements, anti-imperialist themes, and portraits of Enver Hoxha, characteristic of the isolationist communist regime.
Albania Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, particularly those from the first independence period (1913-1920s), and certain occupation issues can be quite valuable, especially in fine condition or as complete sets. Many communist-era issues are common and inexpensive, though some thematic sets or errors can command higher prices. Later issues are generally affordable.
How to Identify Albania Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Albania stamps:
- 1 Look for 'SHQIPËRIA' or 'SHQIPNI' (Albanian for Albania) as the primary country inscription.
- 2 Early issues may feature Ottoman-influenced designs or overprints. Later issues predominantly use Latin script.
- 3 Pay attention to watermarks and perforations, especially for definitive series, as these can differentiate printings and values.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Albania stamps?
Albania stamps are postage stamps issued by Albania, a country in Southeastern Europe, since its declaration of independence in 1912. They reflect the nation's complex history, including periods of Ottoman rule, monarchy, Italian and German occupation, and a long communist era, before its modern democratic period.
Are Albania stamps valuable?
The value of Albania stamps varies significantly. Early issues from the independence period and certain occupation stamps can be quite valuable, especially in good condition. Many stamps from the communist era are common and inexpensive, but some errors, rare sets, or specific thematic issues can be valuable. Modern issues are generally affordable.
How can I identify Albania stamps?
Albania stamps can typically be identified by the country name 'SHQIPËRIA' or 'SHQIPNI' (Albanian for Albania) printed on them. Early issues might have Ottoman influences or overprints, while later stamps use Latin script. Utilizing a stamp identifier app can help you quickly identify specific Albanian stamps by scanning them with your phone's camera.
Which catalogs list Albania stamps?
Albania stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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