Greek Occupation of Komotino Stamps
The Greek Occupation of Komotino refers to a brief period of administration in Western Thrace, a region in northeastern Greece bordering Turkey and Bulgaria. This area experienced significant political flux following the Balkan Wars and World War I, leading to temporary military administrations.
- Issued stamps
- 1913–1913
- Region
- Europe, Southeastern Europe
- Currency
- GRD
- Languages
- Greek
- Issuer type
- Occupation postal administration
- Part of
- Greece
History and background
Stamps issued during this occupation period reflect the transitional nature of the administration, often featuring Greek inscriptions or overprints on existing postal stationery. The postal history of this specific issue is tied directly to the shifting territorial control of the region before its final incorporation into Greece.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- ΚΟΜΟΤΗΝΗ
How to identify them
- Look for Greek stamps (often from the 'Hermes Heads' or 'Olympic Games' series) bearing overprints in Greek characters, typically 'ΚΟΜΟΤΗΝΗ' (Komotini).
- Examine the overprint for clarity, type, and color, as variations exist. Compare with catalog illustrations for authenticity.
- Verify the underlying Greek stamp's authenticity and condition, as this affects the overall value.
Popular series
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Overprints on Greek Stamps
1913
Greek stamps overprinted with 'ΚΟΜΟΤΗΝΗ' (Komotini) or similar inscriptions, signifying the temporary Greek administration.
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Provisional Issues
1913
Potentially some provisional issues or handstamps used locally before formal overprints were applied.
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
- €10–€50
- Scarce stamps
- €100–€500+
Value depends heavily on the specific overprint, condition, and rarity of the underlying Greek stamp. Uncatalogued varieties or errors can command higher prices.
Catalogs. Greek Occupation of Komotino 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 Greek Occupation of Komotino stamps
Greek Occupation of Komotino stamps are postal issues used during a brief period in 1913 when the Greek military administered the region of Komotini (Western Thrace). These stamps are typically Greek definitive issues overprinted with the name of the city or other relevant inscriptions to signify their use under Greek occupation.
The value of Greek Occupation of Komotino stamps varies. Common overprints on readily available Greek stamps might be moderately priced (€10-€50), while rare overprint varieties, specific underlying stamp issues, or stamps in pristine condition can fetch significantly higher prices, ranging from €100 to over €500. Errors or unique provisional issues are particularly sought after.
To identify Greek Occupation of Komotino stamps, look for Greek stamps, often from the early 20th century, that bear an overprint in Greek characters, most commonly 'ΚΟΜΟΤΗΝΗ'. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable. Pay attention to the type and color of the overprint.
Greek Occupation of Komotino stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, usually within the Greece section or a dedicated section for Greek occupation issues. Specialized Greek philatelic catalogs also provide detailed listings and varieties.
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