Batum Stamps
Batum, located on the eastern coast of the Black Sea, historically served as a crucial port city in the Caucasus region. Its postal history is complex, reflecting periods under Ottoman, Russian Imperial, and later Soviet administration, with stamps often appearing during transitional phases of local governance.
- Issued stamps
- 1919–1920
- Region
- Asia, Caucasus
- Currency
- RUB
- Languages
- Russian, Georgian, Turkish
- Issuer type
- Local postal administration
About Batum stamps
Issues from this area frequently feature Russian or Turkish language alongside local inscriptions, particularly during the brief period of independent or mandated control following World War I. The city's status shifted significantly after the 1921 Treaty of Kars, integrating it firmly into the Soviet postal system.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Batum stamps
- Look for 'Batum' or 'Батум' inscriptions, often overprinted on Russian Imperial stamps.
- Examine overprints carefully for authenticity; many forgeries exist.
- Note the presence of British currency denominations on some issues (e.g., 'Kop.' overprinted with 'Pence').
Popular series
-
British Occupation Issues
1919-1920
Stamps issued under British occupation, often featuring overprints on Russian Imperial stamps or new designs with local inscriptions.
-
Handstamped Overprints
1919
Provisional issues created by handstamping existing Russian stamps, reflecting the chaotic political situation.
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–€5,000+
Value varies significantly based on condition, specific overprint, and rarity of the underlying stamp. Forgeries are common, especially for the more valuable issues.
Catalogs. Batum 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 Batum stamps
Batum stamps are postal issues from the city of Batum (now Batumi, Georgia) during a brief period of British occupation and local administration following World War I, primarily between 1919 and 1920. They often consist of overprinted Russian Imperial stamps or new designs reflecting the transitional political status of the region.
Yes, some Batum stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare overprints, specific varieties, and stamps in pristine condition. However, many common issues are more affordable. The value is heavily influenced by authenticity, as forgeries are prevalent.
Batum stamps can be identified by their 'Batum' or 'Батум' inscriptions, often as overprints on Russian Imperial stamps. Some issues also feature British currency denominations. Careful examination of the overprint, paper, and watermark (if any) is crucial. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
Batum stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under 'Georgia' or 'Russia'), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values for the various issues.
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