Hejaz Stamps
The Hejaz, located in the western Arabian Peninsula, was historically the heartland of the Islamic world, encompassing the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Its postal history is brief but significant, emerging as an independent entity under the Hashemite Kingdom during the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, though it briefly saw British influence during World War I.
- Issued stamps
- 1916–1925
- Region
- Middle East, Arabian Peninsula
- Currency
- Piasters (Ottoman)
- Languages
- Arabic
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- Ottoman Empire
About Hejaz stamps
Stamps from this period predominantly feature Arabic script, reflecting the region's cultural and linguistic identity. The Hejaz ceased independent postal operations following its incorporation into the Kingdom of Nejd and Hejaz in 1926, which later formed the core of modern Saudi Arabia.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Hejaz stamps
- Look for Arabic inscriptions, particularly 'Hejaz Post' or 'Postage Hejaz' on early overprints.
- Examine the designs for the Tughra (calligraphic signature) of Hussein bin Ali, the Sharif of Mecca.
- Note the paper type, watermarks (if any), and printing methods, as these can vary between issues and printings.
Popular series
-
First Issues (1916)
1916
Overprinted Ottoman stamps, often with Arabic inscriptions 'Hejaz Post' or 'Postage Hejaz'.
-
Regular Issues (1917-1925)
1917-1925
Stamps featuring Arabic calligraphy, often with religious or nationalistic motifs, including the Tughra of Hussein bin Ali.
-
Provisional Issues
1924-1925
Stamps issued during the final years of the Hashemite Kingdom, sometimes with surcharges or new designs reflecting the changing political landscape.
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
- €200–€5,000+
Value varies significantly based on condition, specific issue (especially overprints and early printings), and cancellations. Forgeries are common, so expert authentication is crucial for higher-value items.
Catalogs. Hejaz 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 Hejaz stamps
Hejaz stamps are postage stamps issued by the Hashemite Kingdom of Hejaz, located in the western Arabian Peninsula, between 1916 and 1925. They reflect the region's brief period of independence following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, before its incorporation into what became Saudi Arabia.
Some Hejaz stamps can be quite valuable, especially early overprints on Ottoman stamps, rare varieties, and stamps in pristine condition. Common issues can be affordable, but rare items can fetch hundreds or even thousands of Euros. Forgeries are prevalent, so expert authentication is recommended for valuable pieces.
Hejaz stamps are primarily identified by their Arabic inscriptions, often including 'Hejaz Post' or the Tughra of Hussein bin Ali. Designs typically feature Arabic calligraphy and sometimes religious motifs. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
Hejaz stamps are extensively cataloged in major philatelic references. You can find them listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (often under 'Hejaz' or 'Saudi Arabia - Hejaz issues'), the Michel catalogue (under 'Hedschas'), and the Stanley Gibbons catalogue (under 'Hejaz').
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