Vlora Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Vlora (Albania) Stamps
Vlora, known today as Vlorë, is a major port city located in southern Albania, situated on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas in Southeastern Europe. While Vlora itself was not an independent stamp-issuing entity, its postal history is intrinsically linked to the tumultuous political landscape of Albania, particularly during the period of Albanian Independence declared there in 1912. Stamps issued for this region during the early 20th century often reflect the transition from Ottoman rule through the establishment of the Albanian state, featuring the Albanian language and national symbols. The city's strategic importance meant its postal services were subject to various administrative controls, including provisional governments and international oversight, which significantly impacted the issuance and design of local postal stationery.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1914 – 1914
- Languages:
- Albanian, Turkish
- Currency:
- Albanian Lek (ALL)
- Parent issuer:
- Albania
Stamp Catalogs
Vlora (Albania) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Vlora (Albania) Stamp Series
Vlora Provisional Issues (1914)
Stamps issued locally in Vlora during the turbulent period following the Albanian Declaration of Independence, often featuring overprints on Ottoman or Albanian stamps.
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Vlora (Albania) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Vlora stamps can vary significantly based on the specific overprint, base stamp, condition, and rarity of the provisional issue. Early issues, especially those with rare overprints or errors, command higher prices.
How to Identify Vlora (Albania) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Vlora (Albania) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'VLORA' or 'Vlorë' overprints, often on Ottoman or early Albanian stamps.
- 2 Examine the base stamp for its original country of issue (e.g., Ottoman Tughra or early Albanian Eagle designs).
- 3 Pay attention to the type and style of the overprint, as variations exist.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Vlora stamps?
Vlora stamps refer to provisional postal issues from the city of Vlora (now Vlorë) in Albania, primarily from 1914. These were often existing Ottoman or early Albanian stamps overprinted with 'VLORA' or similar markings, reflecting the city's unique postal administration during a period of political transition following Albania's declaration of independence.
Are Vlora stamps valuable?
Some Vlora stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare provisional issues, specific overprint varieties, or those in fine condition. Their value is highly dependent on the rarity of the overprint, the base stamp used, and philatelic demand. Common examples might be worth a few euros, while rare varieties can fetch hundreds or even thousands.
How can I identify Vlora stamps?
To identify Vlora stamps, look for overprints containing 'VLORA' or 'Vlorë' on stamps that typically originate from the Ottoman Empire or early Albanian issues. The design of the base stamp and the specific overprint are key identifiers. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list Vlora stamps?
Vlora stamps are typically listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, usually within the Albania section or a dedicated section for local/provisional issues. Specialized catalogs for Albanian philately will also provide detailed listings.
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