Alexandretta Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Alexandretta Stamps
The former Sanjak of Alexandretta, situated in the northeastern Mediterranean region of the Levant, experienced a unique and brief period of independent postal administration. This territory, historically linked to the Ottoman Empire and later under French Mandate for Syria and Lebanon, achieved a short-lived autonomous status before its incorporation into Turkey in 1939. Stamps issued during this period primarily feature French or Turkish language inscriptions, reflecting the complex political transitions and the region's shifting administrative control. The postal history is characterized by provisional issues and surcharges reflecting its final status change.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Levant
- Issuing period:
- 1938 – 1938
- Languages:
- French, Turkish
- Currency:
- SYP
- Parent issuer:
- France (Mandate for Syria and Lebanon)
Stamp Catalogs
Alexandretta stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Alexandretta Stamp Series
Provisional Issues (1938)
Stamps of Syria overprinted 'ALEXANDRETTE' or 'ALEXANDRETTE / SANDJAK AUTONOME' with new values, reflecting the autonomous status.
Surcharged Issues (1938)
Syrian stamps with various surcharges, often in Turkish currency, indicating the transition and local postal needs.
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Alexandretta Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Alexandretta stamps varies significantly based on the specific overprint, surcharge, condition, and whether they are on cover. Errors or rare varieties can command higher prices. Given the short issuance period, all issues are considered collectible.
How to Identify Alexandretta Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Alexandretta stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ALEXANDRETTE' or 'ALEXANDRETTE / SANDJAK AUTONOME' overprints on stamps originally issued for Syria.
- 2 Examine surcharges for new values, often in Turkish currency (Piastres or KuruÅŸ), applied to Syrian stamps.
- 3 Note the short period of issue (1938) as a key identifier for genuine Alexandretta stamps.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Alexandretta stamps?
Alexandretta stamps are postage stamps issued in 1938 for the autonomous Sanjak of Alexandretta, a territory in the northeastern Mediterranean region. These stamps were primarily Syrian issues overprinted with 'ALEXANDRETTE' or 'ALEXANDRETTE / SANDJAK AUTONOME' and sometimes surcharged with new values, reflecting its brief period of self-governance before its incorporation into Turkey.
Are Alexandretta stamps valuable?
Yes, Alexandretta stamps can be valuable, especially those with rare overprints, specific surcharge varieties, or those in pristine condition, particularly on cover. Common issues might range from €5 to €50, while rarer examples can fetch hundreds or even over a thousand euros. Their value is enhanced by their short period of issue and historical significance.
How can I identify Alexandretta stamps?
To identify Alexandretta stamps, look for the distinctive 'ALEXANDRETTE' or 'ALEXANDRETTE / SANDJAK AUTONOME' overprints on stamps that are clearly of Syrian origin. Pay close attention to any surcharges, which often indicate new values in Turkish currency. For definitive identification and to check for varieties, using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Alexandretta stamps?
Alexandretta stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under Hatay or Alexandretta), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, including varieties of overprints, surcharges, and current market values.
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