Romania Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Romania Stamps
Romania, situated in Southeastern Europe, possesses a rich postal history that evolved from the Ottoman and Russian spheres of influence before achieving full independence. Stamps primarily feature the Romanian language, which uses the Latin alphabet, reflecting its Romance linguistic heritage. The country's postal administration joined the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1878, and its stamp issues document significant political transformations, including the establishment of the Kingdom and the subsequent Communist era. Modern issues reflect its current status as a member of the European Union.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southeastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1858 – present
- Languages:
- Romanian
- Currency:
- RON
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Stamp Catalogs
Romania stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Romania Stamp Series
Cap de Bour (Bull's Head) (1858-1862)
The first stamps issued by Moldavia, featuring the head of an aurochs, a symbol of Moldavia. Highly sought after by collectors.
Carol I Issues (1866-1914)
Numerous issues depicting King Carol I, marking the establishment and consolidation of the Kingdom of Romania.
Communist Era Issues (1947-1989)
Stamps reflecting socialist themes, industrialization, and national achievements during the Communist regime.
Romania Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, especially the 'Cap de Bour' stamps, are extremely valuable. Later 19th and early 20th-century issues can also fetch significant prices, particularly in fine condition or with rare cancellations. Most modern issues are inexpensive, though some commemorative sets or errors can be more valuable.
How to Identify Romania Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Romania stamps:
- 1 Look for inscriptions in Romanian, often 'ROMANIA' or 'POSTA ROMANA'.
- 2 Early issues may feature Cyrillic script or the 'Cap de Bour' emblem.
- 3 Many stamps from the Kingdom era feature portraits of monarchs like Carol I or Ferdinand I.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Romania stamps?
Romania stamps are postage stamps issued by the postal administration of Romania, covering its history from the principalities of Moldavia and Wallachia through the Kingdom, Communist era, and its current status as a democratic republic.
Are Romania stamps valuable?
Yes, some Romania stamps can be very valuable. The earliest issues, particularly the 'Cap de Bour' stamps from Moldavia, are among the world's most sought-after and expensive stamps. Other valuable stamps include rare errors, early Kingdom issues, and stamps with specific cancellations or varieties. Most common modern stamps, however, have modest value.
How can I identify Romania stamps?
You can identify Romania stamps by looking for the country name 'ROMANIA' or 'POSTA ROMANA' (Romanian Post) printed on them. Early issues may have Cyrillic inscriptions or the iconic 'Cap de Bour' design. For precise identification and catalog numbers, a stamp identifier app or a specialized catalog is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Romania stamps?
Romania stamps are extensively listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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