Dobrudja Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Dobrudja Stamps
Dobrudja is a historical region situated in Southeastern Europe, straddling the border between modern-day Romania and Bulgaria along the Black Sea coast. Its complex postal history reflects shifting geopolitical control, particularly during the early 20th century when it was subject to various administrations including Ottoman, Romanian, and Bulgarian rule, leading to numerous provisional issues. Stamps from this region often feature Cyrillic or Latin scripts depending on the governing power at the time of issue. The region's status was frequently contested, resulting in a fragmented postal landscape marked by administrative transitions following the Balkan Wars and World War I.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southeastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1916 β 1916
- Languages:
- Romanian, Bulgarian, Turkish
- Currency:
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- issuer:dobrudja.overview.parentIssuer:
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Stamp Catalogs
Dobrudja stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Dobrudja Stamp Series
Romanian Occupation Issues (1916)
Stamps issued by the Romanian administration during its occupation of parts of Dobrudja, often overprinted on existing Romanian stamps.
Bulgarian Occupation Issues (1916)
Stamps issued by the Bulgarian administration during its occupation of parts of Dobrudja, typically overprinted on Bulgarian stamps.
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Dobrudja Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Dobrudja stamps varies significantly based on the specific occupation (Romanian or Bulgarian), the base stamp used for overprints, the type of overprint, and its condition. Provisional issues and rare errors or varieties can command high prices.
How to Identify Dobrudja Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Dobrudja stamps:
- 1 Look for overprints (often in Cyrillic or Latin script) on stamps of Romania or Bulgaria.
- 2 Pay attention to the specific text and design of the overprint, which indicates the issuing authority and period.
- 3 Examine the base stamp for its original country of issue and denomination.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Dobrudja stamps?
Dobrudja stamps are postage stamps issued during the various occupations and administrative changes in the historical region of Dobrudja, primarily in 1916. These are often provisional issues, such as overprints on stamps of Romania or Bulgaria, reflecting the shifting geopolitical control of the area.
Are Dobrudja stamps valuable?
Some Dobrudja stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare provisional issues, specific overprint varieties, or stamps in pristine condition. Common issues might be in the $5-$50 range, while rare examples can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Their value is highly dependent on their rarity, condition, and the specific historical context of their issue.
How can I identify Dobrudja stamps?
To identify Dobrudja stamps, look for overprints on stamps originally issued by Romania or Bulgaria. These overprints often bear inscriptions related to the temporary administration. An easy way to identify them is by using a stamp identifier app, which can scan the stamp and provide details about its origin, issue, and potential value.
Which catalogs list Dobrudja stamps?
Dobrudja stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including catalog numbers, descriptions, and estimated values for the various issues from this historically complex region.
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