British Occupation of Baghdad Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About British Occupation of Baghdad Stamps
British Occupied Baghdad was a territory in the Middle East, specifically in Mesopotamia, administered by the United Kingdom following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire after World War I. Postal services during this period were managed under the authority of the British military administration, often utilizing stamps overprinted with "B.E.F." (British Expeditionary Force) or "Iraq" under British control. The stamps predominantly feature English and Arabic inscriptions, reflecting the administrative language and the local populace. This entity represents a transitional phase before the formal establishment of the Kingdom of Iraq under the British Mandate.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Mesopotamia
- Issuing period:
- 1917 – 1917
- Languages:
- English, Arabic
- Currency:
- INR
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
British Occupation of Baghdad stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular British Occupation of Baghdad Stamp Series
Indian Expeditionary Force 'D' Overprints (1917)
Stamps of British India overprinted 'I.E.F. 'D'' and 'BAGHDAD' used by the British forces upon the capture of Baghdad.
British Occupation of Iraq Overprints (1917)
Stamps of Turkey overprinted 'BAGHDAD' and 'IRAQ' in Arabic and English, issued for use in the occupied territories.
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British Occupation of Baghdad Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on the specific overprint, condition, and whether they are on cover. Stamps with clear, well-centered overprints are more desirable. Errors or varieties can command higher prices.
How to Identify British Occupation of Baghdad Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying British Occupation of Baghdad stamps:
- 1 Look for stamps of British India or Ottoman Turkey with overprints 'I.E.F. 'D'', 'BAGHDAD', or 'IRAQ' (in English and Arabic).
- 2 Check for the specific dates of issue (1917) to distinguish from later Iraqi issues.
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Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are British Occupation of Baghdad stamps?
British Occupation of Baghdad stamps are postage stamps issued for use in the city of Baghdad and surrounding areas after its capture by British forces in 1917 during World War I. These were primarily stamps of British India or Ottoman Turkey overprinted with specific inscriptions like 'I.E.F. 'D'', 'BAGHDAD', or 'IRAQ'.
Are British Occupation of Baghdad stamps valuable?
The value of British Occupation of Baghdad stamps varies. Common examples in good condition can range from $5 to $50. Rarer issues, particularly those with specific overprint varieties, errors, or those found on original covers, can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Condition and authenticity are key factors.
How can I identify British Occupation of Baghdad stamps?
To identify British Occupation of Baghdad stamps, look for the base stamps of British India or Ottoman Turkey. The key identifiers are the overprints: 'I.E.F. 'D'' (Indian Expeditionary Force 'D'), 'BAGHDAD', or 'IRAQ' in both English and Arabic. Pay attention to the font and placement of these overprints. A stamp identifier app can also assist in verifying these specific issues.
Which catalogs list British Occupation of Baghdad stamps?
British Occupation of Baghdad stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under Great Britain or Iraq), the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps Catalogue, and the Michel Ostasien (Middle East) catalog.
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