Alexandretta Stamps
The former Sanjak of Alexandretta, situated in the northeastern Mediterranean region of the Levant, experienced a unique and brief period of independent postal administration. This territory, historically linked to the Ottoman Empire and later under French Mandate for Syria and Lebanon, achieved a short-lived autonomous status before its incorporation into Turkey in 1939.
- Issued stamps
- 1938–1938
- Region
- Middle East, Levant
- Currency
- SYP
- Languages
- French, Turkish
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- France (Mandate for Syria and Lebanon)
About Alexandretta stamps
Stamps issued during this period primarily feature French or Turkish language inscriptions, reflecting the complex political transitions and the region's shifting administrative control. The postal history is characterized by provisional issues and surcharges reflecting its final status change.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- ALEXANDRETTE
How to identify Alexandretta stamps
- Look for 'ALEXANDRETTE' or 'ALEXANDRETTE / SANDJAK AUTONOME' overprints on stamps originally issued for Syria.
- Examine surcharges for new values, often in Turkish currency (Piastres or Kuruş), applied to Syrian stamps.
- Note the short period of issue (1938) as a key identifier for genuine Alexandretta stamps.
Popular series
-
Provisional Issues
1938
Stamps of Syria overprinted 'ALEXANDRETTE' or 'ALEXANDRETTE / SANDJAK AUTONOME' with new values, reflecting the autonomous status.
-
Surcharged Issues
1938
Syrian stamps with various surcharges, often in Turkish currency, indicating the transition and local postal needs.
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
- €5–€50
- Scarce stamps
- €100–€1,000+
The value of Alexandretta stamps varies significantly based on the specific overprint, surcharge, condition, and whether they are on cover. Errors or rare varieties can command higher prices. Given the short issuance period, all issues are considered collectible.
Catalogs. Alexandretta 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 Alexandretta stamps
Alexandretta stamps are postage stamps issued in 1938 for the autonomous Sanjak of Alexandretta, a territory in the northeastern Mediterranean region. These stamps were primarily Syrian issues overprinted with 'ALEXANDRETTE' or 'ALEXANDRETTE / SANDJAK AUTONOME' and sometimes surcharged with new values, reflecting its brief period of self-governance before its incorporation into Turkey.
Yes, Alexandretta stamps can be valuable, especially those with rare overprints, specific surcharge varieties, or those in pristine condition, particularly on cover. Common issues might range from €5 to €50, while rarer examples can fetch hundreds or even over a thousand euros. Their value is enhanced by their short period of issue and historical significance.
To identify Alexandretta stamps, look for the distinctive 'ALEXANDRETTE' or 'ALEXANDRETTE / SANDJAK AUTONOME' overprints on stamps that are clearly of Syrian origin. Pay close attention to any surcharges, which often indicate new values in Turkish currency. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Alexandretta stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under Hatay or Alexandretta), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, including varieties of overprints, surcharges, and current market values.
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