German WWII Occupation of Albania Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German WWII Occupation of Albania Stamps
German WWII Occupation of Albania, a region in Southeastern Europe, saw the issuance of provisional postage during the period of Axis control following the Italian invasion and subsequent German takeover in 1943. These stamps primarily served the administrative needs of the occupying forces, often overprinting existing Albanian issues or utilizing German-style definitive designs. The language appearing on these issues is predominantly German, reflecting the military administration, though some local Albanian inscriptions might be present. This short-lived postal entity ceased upon the withdrawal of German forces and the re-establishment of Albanian sovereignty.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southeastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1943 – 1944
- Languages:
- German, Albanian
- Currency:
- RM
- Parent issuer:
- Germany
Stamp Catalogs
German WWII Occupation of Albania stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German WWII Occupation of Albania Stamp Series
Overprints on Albanian Issues (1943-1944)
Existing Albanian stamps overprinted with German text or symbols, often 'Deutsche Besetzung Albanien' (German Occupation Albania).
German Definitive Issues for Albania (1943-1944)
Stamps with German designs, sometimes featuring local Albanian motifs, specifically issued for the occupied territory.
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German WWII Occupation of Albania Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific overprint varieties, and whether they are used or unused. Full sets and covers are generally more valuable.
How to Identify German WWII Occupation of Albania Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German WWII Occupation of Albania stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Deutsche Besetzung Albanien' or similar German inscriptions.
- 2 Examine for overprints on pre-existing Albanian stamps, often featuring King Zog or Albanian landscapes.
- 3 Note the period of issue (1943-1944) as a key indicator.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are German WWII Occupation of Albania stamps?
German WWII Occupation of Albania stamps are provisional postage issues released by the German military administration during its occupation of Albania from 1943 to 1944. These stamps were primarily overprints on existing Albanian issues or German-style definitive designs, reflecting the temporary Axis control.
Are German WWII Occupation of Albania stamps valuable?
The value of German WWII Occupation of Albania stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rare varieties, specific overprints, errors, or complete sets in fine condition can fetch hundreds of euros. Factors like condition, rarity, and historical context significantly influence their philatelic worth.
How can I identify German WWII Occupation of Albania stamps?
To identify German WWII Occupation of Albania stamps, look for German inscriptions like 'Deutsche Besetzung Albanien' or 'Albanien' on stamps issued between 1943 and 1944. Many are overprints on earlier Albanian stamps. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly compare your stamps to known issues and verify their origin.
Which catalogs list German WWII Occupation of Albania stamps?
German WWII Occupation of Albania stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under Albania or German Occupation), the Michel Deutschland-Spezial-Katalog (under Besetzungsausgaben), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (under Albania).
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