Greek Islands Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Greek Islands Stamps
The Greek Islands, geographically part of Southern Europe and the Mediterranean basin, possess a complex postal history reflecting periods under Ottoman rule followed by integration into the modern Hellenic State. Stamps from these islands often feature Greek script, though early issues sometimes reflected the administrative languages of occupying powers or local postal arrangements before full incorporation into the unified Greek postal system. The issuance of stamps often mirrors the broader political trajectory of Greece, including periods of provisional issues during wartime or transitions between monarchical and republican governance.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- None
- Languages:
- Greek, Turkish, Italian, French, English
- Currency:
- GRD
- Parent issuer:
- Greece
Stamp Catalogs
Greek Islands stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Greek Islands Stamp Series
Ottoman Post Offices in the Aegean (Late 19th - early 20th century)
Stamps issued by the Ottoman Empire for use in their post offices located on various Greek islands before their integration into Greece.
Provisional Issues of the Balkan Wars (1912-1913)
Stamps overprinted or surcharged by Greek forces or local authorities during the liberation of the islands from Ottoman rule.
Italian Occupation Issues (1912-1943)
Stamps issued by Italy for the Dodecanese Islands (Rhodes, Kos, etc.) during their occupation, often featuring Italian designs or overprints.
Greek Islands Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are generally inexpensive. Provisional issues, early occupation stamps, and specific errors or varieties can command significant prices. Condition is paramount for higher values.
How to Identify Greek Islands Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Greek Islands stamps:
- 1 Look for Greek script, often alongside other languages depending on the period and occupying power.
- 2 Examine overprints or surcharges, which are common on provisional issues from periods of conflict or transition.
- 3 Pay attention to the specific island or island group mentioned on the stamp, as many issues were localized.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Greek Islands stamps?
Greek Islands stamps refer to postal issues from various islands or island groups in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, reflecting their complex history under different administrations (Ottoman, Italian, British) before and during their integration into the modern Greek state. These include provisional issues, occupation stamps, and early Greek stamps used locally.
Are Greek Islands stamps valuable?
The value of Greek Islands stamps varies widely. Common stamps are generally affordable, ranging from €0.50 to €10. However, rare provisional issues, early occupation stamps, specific errors, and stamps in pristine condition can be highly valuable, fetching hundreds or even thousands of Euros. Factors like rarity, condition, and historical significance greatly influence their worth.
How can I identify Greek Islands stamps?
To identify Greek Islands stamps, look for Greek script, often combined with other languages like Turkish, Italian, or French. Pay close attention to any overprints or surcharges, which are common on provisional issues. Consult specialized philatelic catalogs for details on specific island issues. For quick identification, use a stamp identifier app by scanning the stamp.
Which catalogs list Greek Islands stamps?
Greek Islands stamps are extensively listed in major international catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. Specialized Greek catalogs also provide detailed information on these issues, often with more granular variations and pricing. These catalogs are essential resources for collectors.
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