British Military Administration Somalia Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About British Military Administration Somalia Stamps
British Military Administration Somalia (BMAS) was a temporary administration established in the Horn of Africa following the expulsion of Italian forces during World War II. Stamps issued under this authority primarily served the occupied territories of former Italian Somaliland, reflecting a transitional phase in East African postal history. These issues typically bore English inscriptions alongside the name of the territory, often overprinted on existing colonial issues. The administration's postal operations were brief, preceding the eventual return of Somaliland to Italian trusteeship or the unification of the Somali territories.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1948 – 1950
- Languages:
- English, Italian, Somali
- Currency:
- EAS
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
British Military Administration Somalia stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular British Military Administration Somalia Stamp Series
King George VI Overprints (1948-1949)
Stamps of East Africa and Uganda Protectorates overprinted 'B.M.A. SOMALIA' and new values in East African Shillings.
Definitive Issues (1949-1950)
Definitive stamps featuring King George VI, inscribed 'B.M.A. SOMALIA'.
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British Military Administration Somalia Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific overprint varieties, and completeness of sets. Full sets in fine used or unused condition are more desirable. Errors or specific plate flaws can command higher prices.
How to Identify British Military Administration Somalia Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying British Military Administration Somalia stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'B.M.A. SOMALIA' (British Military Administration Somalia).
- 2 Many issues are overprints on stamps of the East Africa and Uganda Protectorates, featuring King George VI.
- 3 Check for the currency in East African Shillings (E.A.S. or Shillings).
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are British Military Adm. Somalia stamps?
British Military Administration Somalia (BMAS) stamps were issued during a brief post-World War II period (1948-1950) when the British administered former Italian Somaliland. These stamps were used for postal services in the occupied territory before its return to Italian trusteeship.
Are British Military Adm. Somalia stamps valuable?
The value of British Military Adm. Somalia stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few pounds, while complete sets, specific overprint varieties, or stamps in pristine condition can fetch hundreds of pounds. Rarity is often tied to specific printings, errors, or postal history items.
How can I identify British Military Adm. Somalia stamps?
You can identify British Military Adm. Somalia stamps by the prominent 'B.M.A. SOMALIA' inscription, often as an overprint on stamps of the East Africa and Uganda Protectorates. They typically feature King George VI and are denominated in East African Shillings. For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog.
Which catalogs list British Military Adm. Somalia stamps?
British Military Adm. Somalia stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Stanley Gibbons (especially the Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalog), Scott, and Michel. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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