Dorpat (Tartu) Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Dorpat (Tartu) Stamps
Dorpat, historically known as Tartu, is a city located in present-day Estonia, placing it within Northern Europe and the Baltic region. Its postal history is complex, reflecting periods under Swedish, Russian Imperial, and later independent Estonian rule, with stamps often reflecting these shifting sovereignties. During periods of Russian administration, the local postal service often mirrored Imperial Russian issues, though local provisional stamps appeared during times of political transition. The language on stamps primarily reflects the dominant administrative power, shifting between Russian and Estonian over time.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Northern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1918 – 1918
- Languages:
- Estonian, German
- Currency:
- Mark
- Parent issuer:
- Estonia
Stamp Catalogs
Dorpat (Tartu) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Dorpat (Tartu) Stamp Series
Dorpat Provisional Issues (1918)
The only issues for Dorpat, these provisional stamps were created during the German occupation of Estonia in 1918. They consist of German occupation stamps (Ostland issues) overprinted with 'DORPAT' and new values in Finnish Mark currency.
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Dorpat (Tartu) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Dorpat provisional stamps varies significantly based on the specific overprint, the underlying German stamp, and condition. Forgeries are known, so expertization is recommended for higher-value items.
How to Identify Dorpat (Tartu) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Dorpat (Tartu) stamps:
- 1 Look for the 'DORPAT' overprint, usually in black, on German occupation stamps (Ostland issues).
- 2 Check for the new value overprint, typically in Finnish Mark currency (e.g., '10 P.').
- 3 Examine the underlying German stamp for its original design and watermarks.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Dorpat stamps?
Dorpat stamps are provisional issues from 1918, created during the German occupation of Estonia. They consist of German occupation stamps (Ostland issues) overprinted with 'DORPAT' and new values in Finnish Mark currency, used in the city of Tartu (historically Dorpat).
Are Dorpat stamps valuable?
Yes, Dorpat stamps can be quite valuable, especially in good condition and with clear, authentic overprints. Their value ranges from tens to hundreds or even thousands of Euros, depending on the specific variety, rarity, and condition. Expert authentication is often recommended due to the presence of forgeries.
How can I identify Dorpat stamps?
To identify Dorpat stamps, look for the distinctive 'DORPAT' overprint on German occupation stamps from 1918, often accompanied by a new value in Finnish Mark currency. Pay attention to the details of the overprint and the underlying stamp. For precise identification and authentication, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a philatelic expert.
Which catalogs list Dorpat stamps?
Dorpat stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott (under Estonia or German Occupation), Michel (Germany/Ostland issues with overprints), and Stanley Gibbons (under Estonia). These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values.
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