Italian Colonies Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Italian Colonies Stamps
The Italian Colonies encompassed territories primarily in North and East Africa, including Libya, Eritrea, Italian Somaliland, and later Ethiopia, reflecting Italy's late 19th and early 20th-century imperial ambitions. Postal services in these regions were administered by the Kingdom of Italy, often utilizing definitive issues overprinted with colonial names or specific currency denominations, frequently denominated in Italian lire or centesimi. Stamps from these areas predominantly feature Italian language, though local place names or bilingual inscriptions sometimes appear, particularly during periods of shifting control or military administration. The postal history is marked by significant transitions following World War II, leading to the dissolution of the colonial empire and the subsequent establishment of independent nations or mandates under different administrative powers.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- North Africa, East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1932 – 1934
- Languages:
- Italian, Arabic, Amharic, Somali
- Currency:
- ITL
- Parent issuer:
- Italy
Stamp Catalogs
Italian Colonies stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Italian Colonies Stamp Series
Colonial Definitive Issues (1932-1934)
Stamps issued for general postal use across various Italian colonies, often featuring overprints or specific designs for each territory.
Propaganda Issues (1932-1934)
Stamps depicting colonial themes, infrastructure projects, or symbols of Italian imperial power, intended to promote the colonial enterprise.
issuer:italian-colonies.series.items.2.name (issuer:italian-colonies.series.items.2.period)
issuer:italian-colonies.series.items.2.description
Italian Colonies Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value varies significantly based on the specific colony, issue, condition, and whether it's a definitive or commemorative stamp. Overprints and errors can command higher prices.
How to Identify Italian Colonies Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Italian Colonies stamps:
- 1 Look for 'COLONIE ITALIANE' or specific colonial names like 'ERITREA', 'SOMALIA ITALIANA', 'LIBIA' printed on the stamps.
- 2 Examine overprints carefully, as these often distinguish colonial issues from metropolitan Italian stamps.
- 3 Note the currency denominations, which were typically in Italian lire or centesimi.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Italian Colonies stamps?
Italian Colonies stamps were postal issues used in territories administered by the Kingdom of Italy, primarily in North and East Africa, including Libya, Eritrea, Italian Somaliland, and later Ethiopia. These stamps often featured Italian designs overprinted with the colony's name or specific currency.
Are Italian Colonies stamps valuable?
The value of Italian Colonies stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for under €10, while rare varieties, specific overprints, or stamps in pristine condition can fetch hundreds or even thousands of Euros. Factors like the specific colony, issue date, and historical significance play a crucial role in their valuation.
How can I identify Italian Colonies stamps?
To identify Italian Colonies stamps, look for inscriptions such as 'COLONIE ITALIANE' or the names of individual colonies like 'ERITREA' or 'SOMALIA ITALIANA'. Many are Italian stamps with specific overprints. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamp to known issues and provide more details.
Which catalogs list Italian Colonies stamps?
Italian Colonies stamps are extensively listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values for collectors.
Not sure if your stamp is from Italian Colonies?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store