Sicily Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Sicily Stamps
Sicily is a large island situated in the central Mediterranean Sea, geographically part of Southern Europe and politically integrated into Italy. Its postal history is complex, initially featuring issues of the independent Kingdom of the Two Sicilies before being fully incorporated into the unified Italian postal system following the Risorgimento in the mid-19th century. Stamps from the pre-unification period prominently feature Italian and sometimes French inscriptions, reflecting Bourbon rule and early European postal influences. While modern issues use Italian, the island's unique history as a major crossroads of Mediterranean powers is reflected in its earlier philatelic record.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1859 – 1859
- Languages:
- Italian, French
- Currency:
- ITL
- Parent issuer:
- Kingdom of the Two Sicilies
Stamp Catalogs
Sicily stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Sicily Stamp Series
Ferdinand II (1859)
The sole series of stamps issued by Sicily, featuring the profile of King Ferdinand II of the Two Sicilies. These stamps are notable for their distinctive design and limited issue period.
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Sicily Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Stamps from Sicily are highly sought after by collectors due to their short period of issue and historical significance. Values vary significantly based on condition, cancellations, and specific varieties (e.g., shades, paper types). Unused examples and those with clear, light cancellations command higher prices. The 50 grana value, in particular, is very rare.
How to Identify Sicily Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Sicily stamps:
- 1 Look for the profile of King Ferdinand II facing left, surrounded by the inscription 'BOLLO DELLA POSTA DI SICILIA'.
- 2 Note the denomination in 'grana' (e.g., '1 GR.', '2 GR.', '5 GR.', '10 GR.', '20 GR.', '50 GR.').
- 3 Examine the paper and printing quality; these stamps were typographed and often show slight variations.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sicily stamps?
Sicily stamps refer to the postal issues released by the Kingdom of Sicily in 1859, just prior to its incorporation into the unified Kingdom of Italy. These stamps are highly prized by collectors for their historical significance and rarity.
Are Sicily stamps valuable?
Yes, Sicily stamps are generally very valuable. Due to their extremely limited period of issue (only one year) and historical context, they are considered classics of Italian philately. Common examples can fetch hundreds of euros, while rare denominations or exceptional condition can command tens of thousands of euros.
How can I identify Sicily stamps?
Sicily stamps are easily identifiable by the profile of King Ferdinand II and the inscription 'BOLLO DELLA POSTA DI SICILIA'. Denominations are in 'grana'. For precise identification, including varieties and cancellations, using a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app can be very helpful.
Which catalogs list Sicily stamps?
Sicily stamps are listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (as part of Italy or Italian States), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, values, and historical context.
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