Cyprus (Greek) Stamps
Cyprus, geographically situated in the Eastern Mediterranean, is an island nation with a complex postal history marked by periods under Ottoman and subsequent British colonial rule until independence in 1960. Stamps issued for the Greek Cypriot administration predominantly feature Greek and English inscriptions, reflecting the island's linguistic duality and historical ties.
- Issued stamps
- 1880–present
- Region
- Europe, Southern Europe
- Currency
- EUR
- Languages
- Greek, English
- Issuer type
- Modern postal administration
About Cyprus (Greek) stamps
Following the island's division, the Republic of Cyprus continued postal operations, though the political situation has led to distinct postal administrations on the island. The country is a member of the Universal Postal Union, with its postal services reflecting its modern European identity.
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.
- CYPRUS
- ΚΥΠΡΟΣ
- KIBRIS
How to identify Cyprus (Greek) stamps
- Look for inscriptions in both Greek and English, especially on modern issues.
- Early issues (pre-1960) will often bear the monarch's portrait (e.g., King George V, Queen Elizabeth II) and 'CYPRUS' in English.
- Post-independence stamps (from 1960 onwards) will typically feature 'ΚΥΠΡΟΣ' (Kypros) and 'CYPRUS' and often 'KIBRIS' (Turkish) until the division, then predominantly Greek and English.
- Watermarks (e.g., Crown CA, Crown Script CA) are important for identifying early British colonial issues.
Popular series
-
Definitives of King George V
1924-1937
Early definitive issues under British rule, often overprinted or featuring local scenes.
-
Independence Issues
1960-1962
The first stamps issued after Cyprus gained independence, often depicting national symbols and leaders.
-
Archaeological Sites and Art
1970s-Present
A recurring theme showcasing Cyprus's rich history, ancient ruins, and cultural heritage.
-
Europa Issues
1976-Present
Cyprus's participation in the annual Europa stamp series, reflecting European themes.
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
- €0.20–€5
- Scarce stamps
- €50–€5,000+
Early issues, particularly those from the British colonial period with errors, varieties, or high denominations, can be quite valuable. Post-independence common definitives are generally inexpensive, but commemorative sets and FDCs can hold more value. Stamps from the 19th and early 20th century, especially those in fine condition, command higher prices.
Catalogs. Cyprus (Greek) 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 Cyprus (Greek) stamps
Cyprus (Greek) stamps refer to the postal issues of the Republic of Cyprus, primarily reflecting the postal administration of the Greek Cypriot community. These stamps typically feature inscriptions in Greek and English, and have been issued since the island gained independence in 1960, continuing the postal history from its British colonial past.
The value of Cyprus (Greek) stamps varies significantly. Early issues from the British colonial period, especially those with errors, rare postmarks, or high denominations, can be quite valuable, ranging from €50 to several thousand euros. More common post-independence definitives are generally inexpensive, often in the €0.20 - €5 range, but complete commemorative sets, first day covers, and certain thematic issues can fetch higher prices.
To identify Cyprus (Greek) stamps, look for the country name 'ΚΥΠΡΟΣ' (Kypros) and 'CYPRUS' on post-independence issues. Earlier British colonial stamps will bear 'CYPRUS' and often the portrait of the reigning British monarch. Watermarks and perforations are also key identifiers for older issues. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
Cyprus (Greek) stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. Collectors can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Catalogue (specifically the Europe volumes), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps Catalogue. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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