Italian Somaliland Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Italian Somaliland Stamps
Italian Somaliland, located in the Horn of Africa, was an Italian colony established in the late 19th century. Its postal history is characterized by issues under Italian administration, initially featuring Italian language inscriptions and denominations, often overprinted for local use. The territory experienced significant administrative changes, particularly during and after World War II, when it transitioned through British military administration before becoming a United Nations Trust Territory administered by Italy until its unification with British Somaliland to form Somalia in 1960.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1903 – 1960
- Languages:
- Italian, Somali, Arabic
- Currency:
- ITL
- Parent issuer:
- Italy
Stamp Catalogs
Italian Somaliland stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Italian Somaliland Stamp Series
Benadir Overprints (1903-1905)
Early Italian stamps overprinted 'BENADIR' for use in the Benadir Protectorate, preceding the formal establishment of Italian Somaliland.
Colonial Issue (1905-1926)
Stamps specifically inscribed 'SOMALIA ITALIANA' or 'SOMALIA' with Italian colonial designs, often featuring local flora, fauna, or colonial figures.
Italian Occupation of British Somaliland Overprints (1940-1941)
Italian Somaliland stamps overprinted for use during the brief Italian occupation of British Somaliland during World War II.
Italian Somaliland Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early overprints, particularly those with rare varieties or errors, and high-value definitive issues can be quite valuable. Stamps from the AFIS period are generally more affordable, though complete sets in fine condition hold value. Condition, centering, and cancellations significantly impact value.
How to Identify Italian Somaliland Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Italian Somaliland stamps:
- 1 Look for inscriptions such as 'SOMALIA ITALIANA', 'SOMALIA', 'BENADIR', or 'AFIS'.
- 2 Many early issues are Italian stamps overprinted for colonial use.
- 3 Denominations are typically in Italian Lire (L.) or Centesimi (C.).
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Italian Somaliland stamps?
Italian Somaliland stamps were issued for the Italian colony and later UN Trust Territory in the Horn of Africa from 1903 until its independence and unification with British Somaliland in 1960. They reflect various administrative periods, including Italian colonial rule, British military administration, and the Italian-administered UN Trust Territory.
Are Italian Somaliland stamps valuable?
The value of Italian Somaliland stamps varies widely. Early issues, especially those with rare overprints, errors, or high denominations, can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to hundreds of Euros. More common later issues are generally affordable, often in the €0.50 to €10 range, but complete sets or specific varieties can command higher prices. Condition is a major factor in determining value.
How can I identify Italian Somaliland stamps?
You can identify Italian Somaliland stamps by looking for inscriptions like 'SOMALIA ITALIANA', 'SOMALIA', 'BENADIR', or 'AFIS'. Many early issues are Italian stamps with specific overprints. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamps to catalog entries and learn more about them.
Which catalogs list Italian Somaliland stamps?
Italian Somaliland stamps are extensively listed in major stamp catalogs, including Scott (under Italian Somaliland), Michel (Italy and Colonies), and Stanley Gibbons (Italian Colonies). These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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