Don Cossack Government Stamps
The Don Cossack Government was a short-lived anti-Bolshevik entity established in Southern Russia during the Russian Civil War. This ephemeral state operated primarily within the Don River basin, a region of Eastern Europe historically associated with the Cossack Hetmanate.
- Issued stamps
- 1918–1920
- Region
- Europe, Eastern Europe
- Currency
- RUB
- Languages
- Russian
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- Russian Empire
History and background
Its stamps, issued between 1918 and 1920, reflect a period of intense political upheaval, often featuring Cyrillic script and denominations tied to the collapsing Russian monetary system. The government's existence was terminated by the Red Army, leading to the absorption of its territory back into Soviet Russia.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify them
- Look for Cyrillic inscriptions, often including 'Донское Войско' (Don Army) or 'Почта' (Post).
- Many stamps are overprints or surcharges on existing Russian Empire stamps.
- Pay attention to the paper type, perforations, and watermarks, as these can be crucial for distinguishing genuine issues from reprints or forgeries.
- Examine postmarks carefully; genuine usage postmarks from the period are highly desirable.
Popular series
-
First Provisional Issues
1918
Provisional issues often surcharged on Russian Empire stamps, reflecting the immediate need for postal services.
-
Arms of the Don Host Province
1918-1919
Stamps featuring the coat of arms of the Don Host Province, a key symbol of the Cossack identity and autonomy.
-
Pictorial Issues
1919-1920
Later issues with more elaborate designs, sometimes depicting Cossack themes or local landmarks, though many were never officially issued or saw limited use.
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
- $5–$50
- Scarce stamps
- $100–$1,000+
The value of Don Cossack Government stamps varies significantly based on condition, rarity, and whether they are genuine issues or forgeries. Many provisional issues and overprints are highly sought after, especially those with clear postmarks. Unissued or proof stamps can also command high prices.
Catalogs. Don Cossack Government 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 Don Cossack Government stamps
Don Cossack Government stamps are postage stamps issued by the anti-Bolshevik Don Cossack Government, a short-lived entity that controlled parts of Southern Russia during the Russian Civil War (1918-1920). These stamps reflect the turbulent political climate of the era.
Yes, many Don Cossack Government stamps can be valuable, particularly rare provisional issues, overprints, and those in fine condition with genuine period postmarks. Common issues might range from $5-$50, while rare examples can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Their historical significance also adds to their appeal.
To identify Don Cossack Government stamps, look for Cyrillic inscriptions, often including 'Донское Войско' or 'Почта', and designs that may feature the Don Host Province's coat of arms or be overprints on Russian Empire stamps. Consulting a specialized catalog is recommended. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Don Cossack Government stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott (often under 'Russia - Civil War Issues' or 'Don Cossack Territory'), Michel (under 'Russland - Bürgerkriegsausgaben'), and Stanley Gibbons (under 'Russia - Civil War Issues'). Specialized catalogs for Russian and Civil War philately also provide detailed listings.
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