Aunus Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Aunus (Olonets Government) Stamps
Aunus, a historical region situated in Eastern Europe, primarily encompassing parts of modern-day Karelia, experienced complex administrative shifts throughout its postal history. Prior to the mid-20th century, the area saw overlapping postal administrations influenced by both Finnish and Soviet spheres of control. Stamps issued for Aunus often reflect this transitional period, sometimes featuring Russian or Finnish language elements depending on the specific administrative period. The region's postal identity is intrinsically linked to the shifting borders and political settlements following major 20th-century conflicts.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Eastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1919 – 1919
- Languages:
- Finnish, Russian
- Currency:
- Finnish Markka (FIM)
- Parent issuer:
- Russia
Stamp Catalogs
Aunus (Olonets Government) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Aunus (Olonets Government) Stamp Series
Aunus Provisional Issues (1919)
These stamps were provisional issues released by the Finnish-backed Olonets Government during the Aunus expedition (Olonets Expedition) in 1919. They often consist of Finnish stamps overprinted or surcharged for local use.
Finnish Stamps Overprinted (1919)
Many Aunus stamps are Finnish definitive issues overprinted with 'AUNUS' or 'OLONETS' and sometimes a new value, reflecting the temporary administration and currency.
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Aunus (Olonets Government) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Aunus stamps varies significantly based on the specific overprint, the base stamp used, condition, and rarity of the overprint variety. Unoverprinted Finnish stamps used as base material are generally common, but genuine Aunus overprints, especially rare varieties or those in fine condition, can command high prices. Forgeries are common.
How to Identify Aunus (Olonets Government) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Aunus (Olonets Government) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'AUNUS' or 'OLONETS' overprints on Finnish stamps, typically from the 1917-1919 period.
- 2 Examine the overprint carefully for authenticity; many forgeries exist. Genuine overprints often show specific characteristics in font and ink.
- 3 Check for surcharges in Finnish Markka (penni and markka) alongside the overprint.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Aunus stamps?
Aunus stamps are provisional postal issues released in 1919 for the Aunus (Olonets) region of Eastern Karelia during the Finnish-backed Olonets Expedition. They typically consist of Finnish stamps overprinted with 'AUNUS' or 'OLONETS' and sometimes a new value, reflecting the temporary administration.
Are Aunus stamps valuable?
The value of Aunus stamps can range from a few euros for common varieties to several hundred or even over a thousand euros for rare overprints, specific base stamps, or those in pristine condition. Due to their historical context and limited issue, some are highly sought after by collectors. However, many forgeries exist, which can significantly impact value.
How can I identify Aunus stamps?
To identify Aunus stamps, look for Finnish definitive stamps from the late 1910s bearing overprints such as 'AUNUS' or 'OLONETS'. Pay close attention to the details of the overprint, including the font, ink color, and placement. Consulting a specialized catalog is crucial, and using a stamp identifier app can help confirm the base stamp and potentially the overprint, but expert authentication is recommended for valuable examples.
Which catalogs list Aunus stamps?
Aunus stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott (under Finland or Russian Civil War Issues), Michel (under Finland or specialized sections for occupation issues), and Stanley Gibbons (under Finland). Specialized catalogs for Finnish or Russian Civil War philately will provide the most detailed listings and information on varieties.
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