Bosnia and Herzegovina Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Bosnia and Herzegovina Stamps
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a nation situated in Southeastern Europe on the Balkan Peninsula, historically positioned at the crossroads of major empires. Its postal history is complex, reflecting periods under Ottoman rule followed by Austro-Hungarian administration, and later incorporation into Yugoslavia, leading to distinct issuing authorities and design influences. Stamps from this region frequently feature the Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian languages, reflecting its diverse linguistic landscape. The country's modern postal system emerged following the dissolution of Yugoslavia, marked by significant administrative transitions that shaped its contemporary philatelic output.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southeastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1879 – present
- Languages:
- Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian
- Currency:
- BAM
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Stamp Catalogs
Bosnia and Herzegovina stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Bosnia and Herzegovina Stamp Series
Austro-Hungarian Occupation Issues (1879-1918)
Early issues under Austro-Hungarian administration, often featuring imperial motifs and local overprints.
Yugoslavian Era Issues (1945-1992)
Stamps issued as part of Yugoslavia, reflecting socialist themes and national symbols.
Post-Independence Issues (1993-Present)
Modern stamps issued by the independent Bosnia and Herzegovina, often depicting national heritage, nature, and culture.
Bosnia and Herzegovina Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early Austro-Hungarian issues, especially those with rare overprints or errors, can be quite valuable. Post-independence issues are generally more affordable, with some exceptions for specific commemorative sets or varieties.
How to Identify Bosnia and Herzegovina Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Bosnia and Herzegovina stamps:
- 1 Look for inscriptions in Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian, often in Cyrillic and Latin scripts.
- 2 Early issues (pre-1918) often bear 'BOSNIEN HERZEGOWINA' or 'BOSNA I HERCEGOVINA' and Austro-Hungarian imperial symbols.
- 3 Post-1992 issues will typically have 'BOSNA I HERCEGOVINA' and may include specific postal entity names like 'BH Pošta', 'Hrvatska pošta Mostar', or 'Pošte Srpske'.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Bosnia and Herzegovina stamps?
Bosnia and Herzegovina stamps are postage stamps issued by various postal authorities in the region of Bosnia and Herzegovina, reflecting its complex history under Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, Yugoslavian, and independent rule. They often feature diverse linguistic inscriptions and cultural motifs.
Are Bosnia and Herzegovina stamps valuable?
The value of Bosnia and Herzegovina stamps varies significantly. Early Austro-Hungarian occupation issues, especially those with specific overprints, errors, or in fine condition, can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to hundreds of Euros. More modern issues are generally less valuable, typically in the €0.10 to €5 range, though certain commemorative sets or varieties can fetch higher prices.
How can I identify Bosnia and Herzegovina stamps?
To identify Bosnia and Herzegovina stamps, look for inscriptions such as 'BOSNIEN HERZEGOWINA', 'BOSNA I HERCEGOVINA', or specific postal entity names like 'BH Pošta'. Pay attention to the script (Latin or Cyrillic) and the historical context of the designs. For quick and accurate identification, you can use a stamp identifier app that utilizes image recognition technology.
Which catalogs list Bosnia and Herzegovina stamps?
Bosnia and Herzegovina stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, Michel Katalog, and Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, among others. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, designs, and estimated values.
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