Rodi (Rhodes) Stamps
Rodi, known today as Rhodes, is a major island in the Dodecanese group of the Aegean Sea, geographically part of Southern Europe but historically linked to the Near East. Its postal history is complex, reflecting periods under Ottoman rule followed by Italian administration from 1912 until its cession to Greece in 1947, which significantly impacted its stamp issues.
- Issued stamps
- 1912–1932
- Region
- Europe, Southern Europe
- Currency
- ITL
- Languages
- Italian, Greek, Turkish
- Issuer type
- Occupation postal administration
- Part of
- Italy
About Rodi (Rhodes) stamps
Stamps from this era predominantly feature Italian or Greek inscriptions, often alongside Turkish script during earlier periods. The transition from Italian sovereignty to Greek administration marked a definitive shift in postal authority and language usage on the island's definitive issues.
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.
- RODI
- ISOLE ITALIANE DELL'EGEO
- EGEO
How to identify Rodi (Rhodes) stamps
- Look for the inscription 'RODI' or 'ISOLE ITALIANE DELL'EGEO'.
- Many early stamps are Italian issues with overprints like 'EGEO' or 'RODI'.
- Designs often feature Italian monarchs, local Dodecanese landmarks, or allegorical figures.
Popular series
-
Italian Occupation Overprints
1912-1913
Italian stamps overprinted 'EGEO' or 'RODI' to signify the new administration after the Italo-Turkish War.
-
Definitive Issues (Italian Administration)
1912-1932
Stamps specifically inscribed 'RODI' or 'ISOLE ITALIANE DELL'EGEO' with designs reflecting Italian sovereignty.
-
Commemorative Issues
1920s-1930s
Stamps commemorating various events, often shared with other Italian Aegean Islands, featuring local landmarks or historical figures.
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
- €0.50–€10
- Scarce stamps
- €50–€500+
Early occupation overprints and high-value definitives, especially in fine unused condition or on cover, can be quite valuable. Common lower values are readily available.
Catalogs. Rodi (Rhodes) 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 Rodi (Rhodes) stamps
Rodi stamps refer to the postage stamps issued for the island of Rhodes (Rodi in Italian) during its period under Italian administration, primarily from 1912 to 1932. These stamps reflect the island's unique postal history, transitioning from Ottoman rule to Italian control.
The value of Rodi stamps varies significantly. Common lower-denomination stamps are generally inexpensive, ranging from €0.50 to €10. However, rare early occupation overprints, high-value definitives, or stamps with specific varieties or errors can fetch prices from €50 to over €500, especially in pristine condition or on original covers.
To identify Rodi stamps, look for inscriptions such as 'RODI' or 'ISOLE ITALIANE DELL'EGEO'. Many early issues are Italian stamps with specific overprints like 'EGEO' or 'RODI'. Designs often include Italian royal portraits, local Dodecanese scenery, or symbols of Italian sovereignty. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Rodi stamps are comprehensively listed in major stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under 'Italian Aegean Islands' or 'Rodi'), the Michel Europa-Katalog (Südeuropa), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (under 'Italian Colonies' or 'Aegean Islands').
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