Austrian Post Turkish Empire Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Austrian Post Offices in the Turkish Empire Stamps
The Austrian Post Turkish Empire issues pertain to the postal network operated by the Austro-Hungarian Empire within the Ottoman Empire, primarily in the Levant and the Balkans. This unique postal administration existed under special bilateral agreements, allowing Austrian mail services to operate in territories where the Ottoman Empire held sovereignty. Stamps issued for these offices typically feature German inscriptions alongside denominations in Austrian currency, reflecting the imperial administration. These issues ceased following the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the subsequent reorganization of postal services in the successor states.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Levant and Balkans
- Issuing period:
- 1867 – 1914
- Languages:
- German, Turkish
- Currency:
- Austro-Hungarian Krone (until 1892 Gulden)
- Parent issuer:
- Austria
Stamp Catalogs
Austrian Post Offices in the Turkish Empire stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Austrian Post Offices in the Turkish Empire Stamp Series
Franz Joseph I Issues (1867-1883)
Early issues featuring Emperor Franz Joseph I, often overprinted with denominations in Turkish currency (Para, Piaster) or without overprint for use in Austrian currency.
Newspaper Stamps (1867-1890)
Distinctive stamps used for newspaper postage, often featuring the head of Mercury or other allegorical figures.
Krone Currency Issues (1892-1908)
Stamps denominated in the new Austro-Hungarian Krone currency, often overprinted with values in Turkish Piaster for local use.
Austrian Post Offices in the Turkish Empire Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, overprint type, and specific postmark. Early issues, rare overprints, and stamps on cover command higher prices. Forgeries exist, especially of rare overprints.
How to Identify Austrian Post Offices in the Turkish Empire Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Austrian Post Offices in the Turkish Empire stamps:
- 1 Look for 'K.K. Oesterr. Post' or 'K.u.K. Post' inscriptions, often alongside denominations in Austrian currency (Kreuzer, Gulden, Heller, Krone) or Turkish currency (Para, Piaster).
- 2 Many stamps are overprinted with new values or 'Levant' indications.
- 3 The portrait of Emperor Franz Joseph I is a common motif on earlier issues.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Austrian Post Turkish Empire stamps?
Austrian Post Turkish Empire stamps were issued by the Austro-Hungarian Empire for use in its post offices operating within the Ottoman Empire, primarily in the Levant and parts of the Balkans, from 1867 to 1914. These offices provided mail services under special agreements.
Are Austrian Post Turkish Empire stamps valuable?
The value of Austrian Post Turkish Empire stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rare overprints, specific denominations, or stamps in pristine condition, especially on original covers, can fetch hundreds or even thousands of euros. Condition and authenticity of overprints are key value drivers.
How can I identify Austrian Post Turkish Empire stamps?
To identify Austrian Post Turkish Empire stamps, look for German inscriptions like 'K.K. Oesterr. Post' or 'K.u.K. Post'. Denominations may be in Austrian currency (Kreuzer, Gulden, Heller, Krone) or overprinted with Turkish currency (Para, Piaster). Many feature Emperor Franz Joseph I. Using a stamp identifier app can help quickly identify these stamps by scanning them.
Which catalogs list Austrian Post Turkish Empire stamps?
Austrian Post Turkish Empire stamps are extensively listed in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under Austria or Austrian Post Offices in Turkey), the Michel Europa-Katalog (under Österreich - Levante), and the Stanley Gibbons Stamp Catalogue (under Austria - Levant).
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