Banja Luka Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Banja Luka Stamps
Banja Luka is a major city located in the northern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, situated within the Balkan Peninsula of Southeastern Europe. Its postal history is deeply intertwined with the complex political transitions of the former Yugoslavia, particularly following the dissolution of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and the Bosnian War. Stamps issued for this region, especially during periods of autonomous administration or conflict, often feature the Bosnian/Serbian/Croatian languages. The administrative status of Banja Luka, serving as the de facto capital of Republika Srpska, significantly influences the specific postal entities and issues recognized within the broader Bosnian postal framework.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southeastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1941 – 1941
- Languages:
- Bosnian, Serbian, Croatian
- Currency:
- HRK
- Parent issuer:
- Yugoslavia
Stamp Catalogs
Banja Luka stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Banja Luka Stamp Series
Occupation Issues (1941)
Stamps issued under Croatian occupation, often overprinted on Yugoslavian or Bosnian issues.
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issuer:banja-luka.series.items.2.name (issuer:banja-luka.series.items.2.period)
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Banja Luka Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Banja Luka occupation stamps largely depends on the specific overprint, the base stamp, and condition. Errors or rare varieties can command higher prices.
How to Identify Banja Luka Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Banja Luka stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Banja Luka' or 'Banja Luka 1941' overprints, often on stamps of Yugoslavia or Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- 2 Examine the base stamp for its original country of issue and design.
- 3 Verify the authenticity of the overprint, as forgeries exist.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Banja Luka stamps?
Banja Luka stamps refer to postal issues used in the city of Banja Luka, primarily during its occupation by the Independent State of Croatia in 1941. These were often existing Yugoslavian or Bosnian stamps overprinted with 'Banja Luka' or similar inscriptions.
Are Banja Luka stamps valuable?
While many Banja Luka occupation stamps are relatively common and affordable, certain varieties, errors, or stamps in pristine condition can be valuable. Their value is often tied to the scarcity of the overprint and the underlying stamp. Rare examples can fetch hundreds of Euros.
How can I identify Banja Luka stamps?
To identify Banja Luka stamps, look for overprints containing 'Banja Luka' or 'Banja Luka 1941' on stamps originally issued by Yugoslavia or Bosnia. Pay attention to the specific font and style of the overprint. For precise identification and authentication, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog.
Which catalogs list Banja Luka stamps?
Banja Luka occupation stamps are typically listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, usually under the listings for Bosnia and Herzegovina or the Independent State of Croatia, often with specific sections for local or occupation issues.
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