Crete Stamps
Crete is a large island nation located in the Eastern Mediterranean, geographically part of Southern Europe. Its postal history is complex, reflecting periods under Venetian, Ottoman, and later Greek administration, culminating in its union with Greece in 1913.
- Issued stamps
- 1900–1909
- Region
- Europe, Southern Europe
- Currency
- GRD
- Languages
- Greek, French, Italian, Russian, Turkish
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- Ottoman Empire
About Crete stamps
Early issues often featured Greek or Turkish inscriptions, transitioning to Greek language and currency after annexation. The island's stamps document its unique political evolution from an autonomous state to a fully integrated part of the Hellenic postal system.
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.
- ΚΡΗΤΗ
- ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΟΙΚΗΣΙΣ ΚΡΗΤΗΣ
How to identify Crete stamps
- Look for inscriptions in Greek ('ΚΡΗΤΗ' or 'ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΟΙΚΗΣΙΣ ΚΡΗΤΗΣ').
- Many stamps feature the head of Hermes or allegorical figures.
- Check for overprints, especially those indicating provisional government or foreign post offices.
Popular series
-
First Definitive Issue
1900
The inaugural issue of the Cretan Autonomous State, featuring the head of Hermes and various denominations.
-
Provisional Government Issue
1905
Stamps issued by the Provisional Government during the Theriso revolt, often overprinted or surcharged.
-
Cretan Assembly Issue
1908
Stamps issued to commemorate the declaration of union with Greece, featuring patriotic motifs.
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
- €0.50–€10
- Scarce stamps
- €50–€500+
Common stamps are affordable, but early issues, high denominations, and stamps with specific overprints or errors can command significant prices. Condition is crucial.
Catalogs. Crete 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 Crete stamps
Crete stamps refer to postage stamps issued by the autonomous Cretan State between 1900 and 1909, before its union with Greece. They reflect the island's unique political status and its transition from Ottoman rule to Greek administration.
The value of Crete stamps varies widely. Common issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from €0.50 to €10. However, rare varieties, high denominations, specific overprints, and stamps in pristine condition can be quite valuable, fetching €50 to over €500. Consult a philatelic catalog for precise valuations.
Crete stamps can be identified by their Greek inscriptions, often including 'ΚΡΗΤΗ' (Crete) or 'ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΟΙΚΗΣΙΣ ΚΡΗΤΗΣ' (Hellenic Administration of Crete). Many feature classical motifs like the head of Hermes. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
Crete stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and current market values.
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