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.
- Issued stamps
- 1859–1859
- Region
- Europe, Southern Europe
- Currency
- ITL
- Languages
- Italian, French
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- Kingdom of the Two Sicilies
About Sicily stamps
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.
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.
- BOLLO DELLA POSTA DI SICILIA
How to identify Sicily stamps
- Look for the profile of King Ferdinand II facing left, surrounded by the inscription 'BOLLO DELLA POSTA DI SICILIA'.
- Note the denomination in 'grana' (e.g., '1 GR.', '2 GR.', '5 GR.', '10 GR.', '20 GR.', '50 GR.').
- Examine the paper and printing quality; these stamps were typographed and often show slight variations.
Popular 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.
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
- €50–€500
- Scarce stamps
- €1,000–€50,000+
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.
Catalogs. Sicily 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 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.
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.
Sicily stamps are easily identifiable by the profile of King Ferdinand II and the inscription 'BOLLO DELLA POSTA DI SICILIA'. Denominations are in 'grana'. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
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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