Patmos Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Patmos Stamps
Patmos is a small Greek island located in the Aegean Sea, part of the Dodecanese island group in Southern Europe. Its postal history is integrated with that of Greece, utilizing Greek postal services throughout its modern history, though it was under Italian administration from 1912 to 1947 before unification with Greece. Stamps issued for Patmos, often as local issues or definitive series of Greece, primarily feature the Greek language and use the Greek drachma or euro. The island's significance as a major religious site influences the themes of its postal emissions.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1912 – 1932
- Languages:
- Italian, Greek
- Currency:
- ITL
- Parent issuer:
- Italy
Stamp Catalogs
Patmos stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Patmos Stamp Series
Italian Occupation Issues (1912-1929)
Stamps of Italy overprinted 'PATMO' or 'ISOLE EGÉE' for use on the island during Italian administration.
Italian Aegean Islands Issues (1929-1932)
Definitive series issued for the Dodecanese islands, including Patmos, often featuring local landmarks or themes.
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Patmos Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early Italian occupation overprints, especially those with specific varieties or on cover, tend to be more valuable. Later definitive issues are generally more common. Condition significantly impacts value.
How to Identify Patmos Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Patmos stamps:
- 1 Look for overprints such as 'PATMO' or 'ISOLE EGÉE' on Italian stamps.
- 2 Stamps specifically inscribed 'ISOLE ITALIANE DELL'EGEO' or 'EGEO' with designs relevant to the Dodecanese.
- 3 The currency will be in Italian Lire (Cent. and Lire).
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Patmos stamps?
Patmos stamps refer to postal emissions used on the Greek island of Patmos, primarily during its period under Italian administration from 1912 to 1947. These include Italian stamps overprinted for use in the Dodecanese, as well as specific issues for the Italian Aegean Islands.
Are Patmos stamps valuable?
The value of Patmos stamps varies. Early Italian occupation overprints, particularly rare varieties or those on genuine postal history, can be quite valuable, ranging from €50 to several hundred euros. Later definitive issues for the Italian Aegean Islands are generally more common and less valuable, typically in the €1-€10 range. Rarity, condition, and specific overprint details are key value determinants.
How can I identify Patmos stamps?
To identify Patmos stamps, look for Italian stamps bearing overprints like 'PATMO' or 'ISOLE EGÉE'. You'll also find stamps inscribed 'ISOLE ITALIANE DELL'EGEO' or 'EGEO' with designs specific to the Dodecanese. The currency will be in Italian Lire. For precise identification and catalog numbers, use a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list Patmos stamps?
Patmos stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in Scott (typically under 'Italian Aegean Islands' or 'Italy - Occupation Issues'), Michel (under 'Italienische Ägäis-Inseln'), and Stanley Gibbons (under 'Italian Aegean Islands').
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