Icaria Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Icaria (Autonomous State) Stamps
Icaria, an island in the Aegean Sea, is geographically part of the Greek archipelago in Southern Europe. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the broader narrative of modern Greece, though it experienced a brief period of independent administration before unification. Stamps issued during its autonomous phase often featured Greek language alongside local administrative markings, reflecting its unique political transition in the early 20th century. The island's philatelic record documents its integration into the Hellenic Post system following its definitive union with Greece.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1912 – 1913
- Languages:
- Greek
- Currency:
- GRD
- Parent issuer:
- Greece
Stamp Catalogs
Icaria (Autonomous State) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Icaria (Autonomous State) Stamp Series
Provisional Government Issues (1912-1913)
Stamps issued by the Provisional Government of Icaria, often overprinted on Greek stamps or featuring local designs.
Overprints on Greek Stamps (1912)
Greek stamps overprinted with 'ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΟΙΚΗΣΙΣ ΙΚΑΡΙΑΣ' (Hellenic Administration of Icaria) or similar inscriptions.
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Icaria (Autonomous State) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Icaria stamps varies significantly based on condition, specific issue, and the presence of overprints. Early provisional issues and rare varieties can fetch high prices, especially if well-centered and with clear cancellations.
How to Identify Icaria (Autonomous State) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Icaria (Autonomous State) stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΟΙΚΗΣΙΣ ΙΚΑΡΙΑΣ' (Hellenic Administration of Icaria) or 'ΠΡΟΣΩΡΙΝΗ ΚΥΒΕΡΝΗΣΙΣ ΙΚΑΡΙΑΣ' (Provisional Government of Icaria).
- 2 Many stamps are overprinted on existing Greek stamps, so identifying the base stamp is crucial.
- 3 Pay attention to the specific type of overprint and its color, as variations exist.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Icaria stamps?
Icaria stamps are postage stamps issued by the Provisional Government of Icaria during its brief period of autonomy from 1912 to 1913, before its union with Greece. These stamps reflect the island's unique political transition.
Are Icaria stamps valuable?
Yes, some Icaria stamps can be quite valuable, particularly rare provisional issues, specific overprint varieties, and stamps in excellent condition. Common issues may be more affordable, but collectors highly seek out scarcer examples, with prices ranging from €5 to over €1,000 for rare items.
How can I identify Icaria stamps?
To identify Icaria stamps, look for inscriptions in Greek such as 'ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΟΙΚΗΣΙΣ ΙΚΑΡΙΑΣ' or 'ΠΡΟΣΩΡΙΝΗ ΚΥΒΕΡΝΗΣΙΣ ΙΚΑΡΙΑΣ'. Many are overprints on Greek stamps. Using a stamp identifier app can help quickly verify and categorize these unique issues.
Which catalogs list Icaria stamps?
Icaria stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott (under Greece or as a separate entity), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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