Castellorizo Stamps
Castellorizo, known today as Kastellorizo, is a small island in the Eastern Mediterranean, geographically part of the Aegean Sea region of Greece. Historically, its postal administration was influenced by its shifting sovereignty, notably under Ottoman rule before becoming part of Italy in 1912, and subsequently annexed by Greece in 1948.
- Issued stamps
- 1920–1920
- Region
- Europe, Southern Europe
- Currency
- ITL
- Languages
- Italian, Greek
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
About Castellorizo stamps
Stamps issued during the Italian period often featured Italian text, while later issues reflect Greek sovereignty and language. The island's unique geopolitical history is reflected in its brief but distinct postal history marked by these administrative transitions.
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.
- CASTELROSSO
- CASTELLORIZO
- KASTELLORIZO
How to identify Castellorizo stamps
- Look for Italian stamps (often Victor Emmanuel III issues) with overprints 'CASTELROSSO' or 'CASTELLORIZO'.
- Examine postmarks for 'CASTELLORIZO' or 'KASTELLORIZO' on Italian or later Greek stamps.
- Pay attention to the type and style of the overprint, as there are variations and forgeries.
Popular series
-
Italian Occupation Overprints
1920
Italian stamps overprinted 'CASTELROSSO' or 'CASTELLORIZO' for local use during the Italian occupation.
-
Italian Definitive Issues
1920
Italian definitive stamps used in Castellorizo without overprints, often identified by postmarks.
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+
Value depends heavily on the specific overprint, condition, and postmark. Early Italian occupation overprints are generally more valuable, especially on complete sets or rare denominations. Forgeries of overprints are common, so expertization is often recommended for higher-value items.
Catalogs. Castellorizo 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 Castellorizo stamps
Castellorizo stamps primarily refer to Italian stamps overprinted for use on the island during its brief Italian occupation in 1920, before it became part of the Italian Aegean Islands (Dodecanese) and later Greece. These issues reflect the island's unique geopolitical history.
Some Castellorizo stamps, particularly the early Italian occupation overprints, can be quite valuable, especially in good condition or as complete sets. Rarity and demand for specific overprint varieties or postmarks drive their value. Common examples may be more affordable, but high-quality or rare issues can fetch hundreds or even thousands of Euros.
To identify Castellorizo stamps, look for Italian stamps, typically from the early 20th century, bearing overprints such as 'CASTELROSSO' or 'CASTELLORIZO'. Postmarks indicating 'CASTELLORIZO' are also key. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
Castellorizo stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under 'Italian Occupation of Castellorizo' or 'Italian Aegean Islands'), Michel (under 'Italienische Besetzung von Kastellorizo'), and Stanley Gibbons (under 'Italian Occupation Issues' or 'Italian Aegean Islands'). These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values.
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