Northern Epirus Stamps
Northern Epirus, situated in the southern Balkans, primarily in what is now northwestern Greece, experienced a complex postal history tied to shifting geopolitical control following the Balkan Wars. This region, often claimed by Albanian nationalists, saw provisional postal administrations emerge during periods of autonomy or occupation, notably around 1914.
- Issued stamps
- 1914–1940
- Region
- Europe, Southern Europe
- Currency
- GRD
- Languages
- Greek, Albanian
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
About Northern Epirus stamps
Stamps issued during these transitional phases frequently featured Greek or sometimes provisional local inscriptions, reflecting the contested sovereignty between Greece and Albania. The region's brief existence as a distinct entity significantly impacted its philatelic output, which is characterized by provisional issues rather than long-standing national series.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Northern Epirus stamps
- Look for inscriptions in Greek, often 'H.P.' (Ipiros) or 'Αυτ. Ηπ. Κυβ.' (Aftonomos Ipirotiki Kyvernisis - Autonomous Epirus Government).
- Many stamps are overprinted Greek issues; check for the specific overprint text and design.
- Pay close attention to the details of overprints, as many forgeries exist. Consult specialized catalogs.
Popular series
-
Provisional Government Issues
1914
Stamps issued by the Provisional Government of Northern Epirus, often overprinted on Greek stamps or featuring local designs.
-
Corfu Occupation Issues
1914
Stamps issued during the brief occupation of Corfu by Northern Epirus forces, typically overprints.
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
- €100–€5,000+
The value of Northern Epirus stamps varies greatly depending on the specific issue, overprint, condition, and rarity. Early provisional issues, especially those with rare overprints or errors, command the highest prices. Forgeries are common, so expert authentication is crucial for valuable items.
Catalogs. Northern Epirus 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 Northern Epirus stamps
Northern Epirus stamps are philatelic issues from a short-lived autonomous region in the southern Balkans, primarily in what is now northwestern Greece, which declared independence in 1914. These stamps reflect the complex geopolitical situation of the time, often being provisional issues or overprints on Greek stamps.
Yes, many Northern Epirus stamps can be quite valuable, especially early provisional issues, rare overprints, or those in pristine condition. Their historical significance and limited production contribute to their appeal among collectors. However, common issues may have more modest values. Forgeries are prevalent, so authentication is important for high-value items.
To identify Northern Epirus stamps, look for Greek inscriptions such as 'H.P.' or 'Αυτ. Ηπ. Κυβ.', often found as overprints on Greek stamps. The designs typically reflect the period around 1914. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
Northern Epirus stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under Greece or a separate listing), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. Specialized catalogs focusing on Greek and Balkan philately also provide extensive details.
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