Ionian Islands Stamps
The Ionian Islands constitute an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea, geographically part of Southern Europe and historically linked to Greece. During the 19th century, the islands were a British Protectorate, leading to a distinct postal history marked by stamps issued under British administration, often featuring English text alongside Greek.
- Issued stamps
- 1859–1941
- Region
- Europe, Southern Europe
- Currency
- GBP
- Languages
- English, Greek
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- United Kingdom
About Ionian Islands stamps
This period of separate governance concluded with the islands' cession to the Kingdom of Greece in 1864, after which Greek postal authority was established. Stamps from this era primarily reflect the transition from British to Hellenic control, with language shifting to Greek following unification.
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.
- IONIAN ISLANDS
- POSTAGE
How to identify Ionian Islands stamps
- Look for the inscription 'IONIAN ISLANDS' and 'POSTAGE' on the 1859 issues, featuring Queen Victoria's profile.
- Early issues are imperforate or rouletted. Later Greek stamps used in the islands will bear Greek text and potentially Ionian cancellations.
- Pay attention to watermarks (e.g., large crown) and paper types for the British Protectorate issues.
Popular series
-
Queen Victoria Issues
1859-1864
The first and only definitive series issued under British Protectorate, featuring Queen Victoria's profile, inscribed 'IONIAN ISLANDS' and 'POSTAGE'.
-
Overprinted Greek Stamps
1864 onwards
Following the cession to Greece, Greek stamps were used, sometimes with local cancellations, marking the transition period.
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+
Stamps from the Ionian Islands, especially the 1859 Queen Victoria issues, are highly sought after. Rarity is often determined by condition, cancellations, and specific shades or plate varieties. Early Greek stamps used in the Ionian Islands can also hold significant value.
Catalogs. Ionian Islands 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 Ionian Islands stamps
Ionian Islands stamps refer primarily to the postal issues of the British Protectorate of the United States of the Ionian Islands, which existed from 1815 to 1864. The first and only definitive series was issued in 1859, featuring Queen Victoria. After 1864, Greek stamps were used.
Yes, Ionian Islands stamps, particularly the 1859 Queen Victoria issues, are generally considered valuable, especially in good condition or with rare cancellations. Prices can range from €5 for common examples to several thousands of Euros for rare varieties or high-denomination stamps. Their historical significance and limited issue period contribute to their collectibility.
To identify Ionian Islands stamps, look for the distinct 'IONIAN ISLANDS' and 'POSTAGE' inscriptions on the 1859 issues, which depict Queen Victoria. These stamps are often imperforate or rouletted. For later periods, you'll find Greek stamps with cancellations from Ionian post offices. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Ionian Islands stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under 'Ionian Islands'), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, watermarks, perforations, and estimated values.
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