Cos Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Cos (Italian Occupation) Stamps
The island of Cos, known today as Kos, is geographically situated in the Aegean Sea, part of the Dodecanese island group in Southern Europe. Historically, its postal administration was linked to the Ottoman Empire before passing to Italian control in 1912, and subsequently being ceded to Greece in 1947 following World War II. Stamps issued during the Italian period primarily featured Italian language and currency, while post-1947 issues reflect Greek sovereignty, using Greek language and denominations. This transition marks a significant shift in the island's postal identity from Italian administration to integration within the Hellenic Post.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1912 – 1932
- Languages:
- Italian, Greek
- Currency:
- ITL
- Parent issuer:
- Italy
Stamp Catalogs
Cos (Italian Occupation) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Cos (Italian Occupation) Stamp Series
Italian Occupation Overprints (1912-1913)
Stamps of Turkey overprinted 'ITALIANA / EGEO' or 'ITALIANA / ISOLE / EGEO' with new values in Italian currency, marking the initial Italian administration.
Italian Definitive Issues for the Dodecanese (1912-1929)
Italian stamps overprinted 'EGEO' or 'ISOLE EGEO' for use across the Dodecanese islands, including Cos, featuring various Italian monarchs and allegorical designs.
Local Issues for Cos (1929-1932)
Specific issues for Cos, often featuring local landmarks or themes, sometimes overprinted on Italian colonial stamps or Dodecanese issues.
Cos (Italian Occupation) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early occupation overprints, especially those with rare varieties or errors, can be quite valuable. Later definitive issues are generally more common. Condition significantly impacts value.
How to Identify Cos (Italian Occupation) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Cos (Italian Occupation) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ITALIANA', 'EGEO', or 'ISOLE EGEO' overprints on Turkish or Italian stamps.
- 2 Check for Italian currency denominations (centesimi, lire) on issues from 1912-1947.
- 3 Examine the design for Italian royal portraits, allegorical figures, or specific local Kos landmarks on later issues.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cos stamps?
Cos stamps refer to the postage stamps issued for the island of Cos (modern Kos) during its period of Italian administration, primarily from 1912 to 1947. These stamps often feature overprints on Turkish or Italian issues, or specific designs for the Dodecanese islands.
Are Cos stamps valuable?
The value of Cos stamps varies widely. Early Italian occupation overprints on Turkish stamps, especially those with specific varieties or errors, can be quite valuable, sometimes fetching hundreds of euros. Later definitive issues are generally more common and less valuable, typically ranging from a few cents to a few euros. Rarity, condition, and specific catalog numbers are key factors in determining value.
How can I identify Cos stamps?
To identify Cos stamps, look for overprints such as 'ITALIANA', 'EGEO', or 'ISOLE EGEO' on stamps that originally depict Turkish or Italian designs. The currency will typically be in Italian lire or centesimi. For precise identification and catalog numbers, you can use a stamp identifier app or consult specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list Cos stamps?
Cos stamps are listed in major international philatelic catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, designs, varieties, and estimated values for stamps from the Italian occupation of Cos and the Dodecanese islands.
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