Austro-Hungarian Military Post Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Austro-Hungarian Military Post Stamps
Austro-Hungarian Military Post operated across the vast territories of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, primarily in Central and Southeastern Europe, and included operations in occupied or administered territories during wartime. This specialized postal service existed to serve the armed forces and was distinct from the civil postal administration, often issuing overprinted stamps for use in specific military zones or occupied areas, particularly during World War I. The stamps typically feature German, Hungarian, or local languages relevant to the operational theater, reflecting the multinational nature of the Habsburg monarchy. The service ceased following the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918, leading to numerous successor states assuming control over the former imperial postal routes.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Central Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1915 – 1918
- Languages:
- German, Hungarian, Serbo-Croatian, Romanian
- Currency:
- Austro-Hungarian Krone (K)
- Parent issuer:
- Austro-Hungary
Stamp Catalogs
Austro-Hungarian Military Post stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Austro-Hungarian Military Post Stamp Series
Field Post (Feldpost) Issues (1915-1918)
Stamps overprinted 'Feldpost' for use by military personnel, often on regular Austrian or Hungarian stamps.
Occupation Issues for Bosnia & Herzegovina (1915-1918)
Austrian stamps overprinted 'K.U.K. FELDPOST' or 'BOSNIEN' for use in occupied territories.
Occupation Issues for Romania (1917-1918)
Austrian stamps overprinted 'K.U.K. MILITÄRVERWALTUNG IN RUMÄNIEN' for use in occupied Romanian territories.
Austro-Hungarian Military Post Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value varies significantly based on the specific overprint, condition, and whether it's on cover. Stamps used in specific, short-lived occupation zones or with rare cancellations can fetch higher prices.
How to Identify Austro-Hungarian Military Post Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Austro-Hungarian Military Post stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Feldpost' or 'K.U.K. MILITÄRVERWALTUNG' overprints on stamps originally issued by Austria or Hungary.
- 2 Examine the language of the overprint, which is typically German, but can also include Hungarian or local languages for specific occupation zones.
- 3 Check for specific military cancellations or postmarks, which often include 'Feldpost' or unit designations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Austro-Hungarian Military Post stamps?
Austro-Hungarian Military Post stamps were specialized postal issues used by the armed forces of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, particularly during World War I. They were distinct from civil postal services and often involved overprinted stamps for use in military zones or occupied territories.
Are Austro-Hungarian Military Post stamps valuable?
The value of Austro-Hungarian Military Post stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for a few Euros, while rare overprints, specific occupation issues, or stamps on cover with desirable cancellations can be worth hundreds or even thousands of Euros. Condition and rarity of the overprint are key factors.
How can I identify Austro-Hungarian Military Post stamps?
To identify Austro-Hungarian Military Post stamps, look for overprints like 'Feldpost' or 'K.U.K. MILITÄRVERWALTUNG' on stamps that typically originated from Austria or Hungary. Pay attention to the specific text and language of the overprint, as this indicates the area of use. For precise identification, use a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list Austro-Hungarian Military Post stamps?
Austro-Hungarian Military Post stamps are extensively cataloged in major philatelic references. You can find them listed in the Michel catalog (especially the Austria and Central Europe volumes), the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, and the Stanley Gibbons catalogues (particularly for Austria and Hungary).
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