Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Stamps
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) occupies the northern third of the island of Cyprus in the Eastern Mediterranean, geographically part of Asia but culturally linked to Europe. Following the 1974 division of the island, the Turkish Cypriot administration began issuing its own provisional and definitive stamps, separate from the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus. These issues primarily feature the Turkish language, reflecting the dominant linguistic and political identity of the self-declared state. The postal history of the TRNC is marked by its unrecognized status, leading to stamps that are generally not valid for international mail outside of Turkey, creating a distinct philatelic entity separate from the island's main postal system.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Eastern Mediterranean
- Issuing period:
- 1974 – present
- Languages:
- Turkish
- Currency:
- TRY
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- issuer:cyprus-turkish.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Stamp Series
Definitive Series (1974-present) (1974-present)
Ongoing series featuring local landscapes, historical sites, and cultural motifs, often with Turkish text.
Anniversaries and Commemoratives (1975-present)
Stamps issued to mark significant national events, historical dates, and international themes, reflecting the TRNC's perspective.
Tourism and Nature (1980s-present)
Series highlighting the natural beauty, flora, fauna, and tourist attractions of Northern Cyprus.
Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Most common stamps are inexpensive. Early provisional issues, errors, and certain complete sets can fetch higher prices. The unrecognized status limits international demand, but there's a dedicated collector base.
How to Identify Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus stamps:
- 1 Stamps are inscribed 'Kuzey Kıbrıs Türk Cumhuriyeti' (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) or 'K.K.T.C.'
- 2 Feature Turkish language prominently, often alongside imagery of local Cypriot scenes or Turkish national symbols.
- 3 Early issues may be overprints on Turkish stamps or feature provisional designs.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus stamps?
Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) stamps are postage stamps issued by the self-declared state in the northern part of Cyprus since 1974. They reflect the unique political and cultural identity of the Turkish Cypriot community, distinct from the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus.
Are Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus stamps valuable?
While many common TRNC stamps are relatively inexpensive, certain early provisional issues, errors, and complete sets can hold significant value for collectors. Their value is primarily driven by a dedicated collector base interested in the postal history of unrecognized states and Cypriot philately.
How can I identify Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus stamps?
TRNC stamps are typically identified by the inscription 'Kuzey Kıbrıs Türk Cumhuriyeti' or 'K.K.T.C.' and the predominant use of the Turkish language. They often depict local landmarks, wildlife, or cultural themes. For precise identification and cataloging, consider using a stamp identifier app that can scan and recognize stamps from various issuers.
Which catalogs list Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus stamps?
Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus stamps are primarily listed in the Michel catalog. They are generally not included in the Scott or Stanley Gibbons catalogs due to the TRNC's unrecognized international status.
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