British Occupied Mosul Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About British Occupied Mosul Stamps
British Occupied Mosul was a short-lived administrative region in northern Mesopotamia, now part of modern Iraq, following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire after World War I. Its postal history is brief, characterized by the use of provisional issues overprinted on existing Ottoman stamps, reflecting the military administration imposed by the United Kingdom. These provisional issues typically bear English inscriptions alongside Arabic, marking the transition from Ottoman rule toward the League of Nations Mandate for Iraq. The area's postal identity was quickly absorbed into the broader postal system established under the British Mandate.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Mesopotamia
- Issuing period:
- 1919 – 1919
- Languages:
- English, Arabic
- Currency:
- INR
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
British Occupied Mosul stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular British Occupied Mosul Stamp Series
Ottoman Stamps Overprinted 'IRAQ IN BRITISH OCCUPATION' (1919)
Provisional issues created by overprinting existing Ottoman Empire stamps with English and sometimes Arabic text, signifying British military control.
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British Occupied Mosul Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on the specific Ottoman base stamp, the overprint variety, condition, and whether it's used or unused. Errors or rare combinations can command higher prices.
How to Identify British Occupied Mosul Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying British Occupied Mosul stamps:
- 1 Look for the overprint 'IRAQ IN BRITISH OCCUPATION' (sometimes abbreviated) in English, often accompanied by Arabic text.
- 2 The base stamps are typically Ottoman Empire issues from the early 20th century.
- 3 Pay attention to the type and color of the overprint, as varieties exist.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are British Occupied Mosul stamps?
British Occupied Mosul stamps are provisional postal issues used in the short-lived British military administration of Mosul, a region in northern Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), following World War I. They consist of existing Ottoman Empire stamps overprinted with 'IRAQ IN BRITISH OCCUPATION' and sometimes Arabic text.
Are British Occupied Mosul stamps valuable?
Yes, British Occupied Mosul stamps can be valuable, especially rare overprint varieties, specific base stamps, or those in pristine condition. Common examples might fetch $10-$50, while rarer items can easily exceed $100 and even reach over $1,000 for exceptional pieces.
How can I identify British Occupied Mosul stamps?
To identify British Occupied Mosul stamps, look for the distinctive overprint 'IRAQ IN BRITISH OCCUPATION' (or similar wording) on Ottoman Empire stamps. The overprint is usually in English and may also include Arabic. Using a stamp identifier app can help confirm the origin and specific variety of your stamps.
Which catalogs list British Occupied Mosul stamps?
British Occupied Mosul stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott (under Iraq or British Occupation of Mesopotamia), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, issue dates, and estimated values.
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