Naples Stamps
The Kingdom of Naples was a major political entity located in Southern Europe, encompassing the southern part of the Italian peninsula and the island of Sicily for much of its history. Its postal system developed significantly during the Bourbon period, predating full Italian unification, and stamps were issued primarily in Italian, often featuring the Bourbon coat of arms.
- Issued stamps
- 1858–1860
- Region
- Europe, Southern Europe
- Currency
- ITL
- Languages
- Italian
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
About Naples stamps
The kingdom experienced several significant political transitions, including periods under Spanish, French (Napoleonic era), and ultimately, the unified Kingdom of Italy, which absorbed its postal administration in 1860.
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.
- BOLLETTI POSTALI
- FRANCO BOLLO
- REGNO DI NAPOLI
How to identify Naples stamps
- Look for the inscription 'BOLLETTI POSTALI' or 'FRANCO BOLLO' and 'REGNO DI NAPOLI'.
- Early issues often feature the Cross of Savoy or the Bourbon coat of arms.
- The 1860 'Tavola' issue is distinctive for its rough printing and specific designs (e.g., a cross within an oval).
Popular series
-
Cross of Savoy Issue
1858
The first stamps of Naples, featuring the Cross of Savoy, though issued under Bourbon rule, reflecting a complex political landscape.
-
Tavola (Table) Issue
1860
Provisional issue created during the Garibaldian occupation, known for its crude printing and rarity.
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
- €500–€50,000+
Stamps of Naples, especially the early issues and the provisional 'Tavola' stamps, are highly sought after by collectors. Condition, cancellations, and specific varieties significantly impact value. The 'Tavola' issue is particularly rare and valuable.
Catalogs. Naples 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 Naples stamps
Naples stamps refer to the postage stamps issued by the Kingdom of Naples, a historical state in Southern Italy, primarily between 1858 and 1860, before its incorporation into the unified Kingdom of Italy. They are significant for their historical context and philatelic rarity.
Yes, many Naples stamps are quite valuable, especially the early issues and the provisional 'Tavola' stamps from 1860. Their value can range from tens of euros for common examples to tens of thousands for rare varieties, particularly those in good condition or with significant historical cancellations.
To identify Naples stamps, look for inscriptions like 'REGNO DI NAPOLI' or 'BOLLETTI POSTALI'. Early designs often feature the Cross of Savoy or the Bourbon coat of arms. The rare 1860 'Tavola' issue has a distinct, crude appearance. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
Naples stamps are listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values, which are essential resources for collectors.
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