Istria Slovene Coast Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Istria - Slovene Coast Stamps
The Slovene Coast, a narrow littoral region in Southern Europe, primarily encompasses the Adriatic coastline of modern-day Slovenia. Historically part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, this area experienced significant administrative shifts following World War I, eventually falling under Italian control before becoming part of Yugoslavia. Stamps issued for this region often reflect the transition from Austrian to Italian and later Yugoslavian postal administrations, with inscriptions appearing in Slovene, Italian, and Serbo-Croatian. The area's complex geopolitical history, particularly the post-World War II demarcation, heavily influenced the issuance and validity of local postal stationery.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1945 β 1947
- Languages:
- Slovene, Italian, Serbo-Croatian
- Currency:
- ITL
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Stamp Catalogs
Istria - Slovene Coast stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Istria - Slovene Coast Stamp Series
Overprints on Italian Stamps (1945-1946)
Italian stamps overprinted with 'ISTRA SLOVENSKO PRIMORJE' or similar inscriptions, often with new denominations, reflecting the initial Yugoslav military administration.
Overprints on Yugoslavian Stamps (1946-1947)
Yugoslavian stamps overprinted for use in the Slovene Coast region, indicating the transition towards integration with Yugoslavia.
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Istria - Slovene Coast Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available. Rarer issues include specific overprint varieties, errors, and high-denomination stamps, especially those in mint condition or on cover. The complexity of the overprints and the short issuance period contribute to specialist interest.
How to Identify Istria - Slovene Coast Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Istria - Slovene Coast stamps:
- 1 Look for overprints such as 'ISTRA SLOVENSKO PRIMORJE', 'VOJNA UPRAVA J.A.' (Military Administration of the Yugoslav Army), or 'SLOVENSKO PRIMORJE' on Italian or Yugoslavian base stamps.
- 2 Pay attention to the base stamp's original country of issue (Italy or Yugoslavia) and the specific overprint text and its color.
- 3 Check for postmarks indicating usage within the Slovene Coast region during the 1945-1947 period.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Istria Slovene Coast stamps?
Istria Slovene Coast stamps refer to postal issues used in the narrow littoral region of modern-day Slovenia, historically part of Istria, during the immediate post-World War II period (1945-1947). These stamps were primarily Italian or Yugoslavian issues overprinted by the Yugoslav Military Administration for use in the territory before its final integration into Yugoslavia.
Are Istria Slovene Coast stamps valuable?
The value of Istria Slovene Coast stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rarer overprint varieties, errors, or high-denomination stamps, especially in fine condition or on original covers, can fetch significantly higher prices, sometimes hundreds of euros. Their historical context and limited issuance period contribute to their philatelic interest.
How can I identify Istria Slovene Coast stamps?
To identify Istria Slovene Coast stamps, look for specific overprints like 'ISTRA SLOVENSKO PRIMORJE' or 'VOJNA UPRAVA J.A.' on Italian or Yugoslavian base stamps. Examine the original design of the underlying stamp and the details of the overprint. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamp to catalog entries and verify its origin.
Which catalogs list Istria Slovene Coast stamps?
Istria Slovene Coast stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott (under Yugoslavia or Italy, often with specific sub-sections for occupation issues), Michel (especially in volumes covering Yugoslavia and Italy), and Stanley Gibbons (typically within the Yugoslavia or Italy sections, noting occupation issues). Specialized catalogs for Yugoslavian or Italian area issues may also provide more detailed listings.
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