Castellorizo Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Castellorizo Stamps
Castellorizo, known today as Kastellorizo, is a small island in the Eastern Mediterranean, geographically part of the Aegean Sea region of Greece. Historically, its postal administration was influenced by its shifting sovereignty, notably under Ottoman rule before becoming part of Italy in 1912, and subsequently annexed by Greece in 1948. Stamps issued during the Italian period often featured Italian text, while later issues reflect Greek sovereignty and language. The island's unique geopolitical history is reflected in its brief but distinct postal history marked by these administrative transitions.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1920 – 1920
- Languages:
- Italian, Greek
- Currency:
- ITL
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Stamp Catalogs
Castellorizo stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Castellorizo Stamp Series
Italian Occupation Overprints (1920)
Italian stamps overprinted 'CASTELROSSO' or 'CASTELLORIZO' for local use during the Italian occupation.
Italian Definitive Issues (1920)
Italian definitive stamps used in Castellorizo without overprints, often identified by postmarks.
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Castellorizo Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value depends heavily on the specific overprint, condition, and postmark. Early Italian occupation overprints are generally more valuable, especially on complete sets or rare denominations. Forgeries of overprints are common, so expertization is often recommended for higher-value items.
How to Identify Castellorizo Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Castellorizo stamps:
- 1 Look for Italian stamps (often Victor Emmanuel III issues) with overprints 'CASTELROSSO' or 'CASTELLORIZO'.
- 2 Examine postmarks for 'CASTELLORIZO' or 'KASTELLORIZO' on Italian or later Greek stamps.
- 3 Pay attention to the type and style of the overprint, as there are variations and forgeries.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Castellorizo stamps?
Castellorizo stamps primarily refer to Italian stamps overprinted for use on the island during its brief Italian occupation in 1920, before it became part of the Italian Aegean Islands (Dodecanese) and later Greece. These issues reflect the island's unique geopolitical history.
Are Castellorizo stamps valuable?
Some Castellorizo stamps, particularly the early Italian occupation overprints, can be quite valuable, especially in good condition or as complete sets. Rarity and demand for specific overprint varieties or postmarks drive their value. Common examples may be more affordable, but high-quality or rare issues can fetch hundreds or even thousands of Euros.
How can I identify Castellorizo stamps?
To identify Castellorizo stamps, look for Italian stamps, typically from the early 20th century, bearing overprints such as 'CASTELROSSO' or 'CASTELLORIZO'. Postmarks indicating 'CASTELLORIZO' are also key. An advanced stamp identifier app can help you quickly recognize these issues and distinguish them from similar stamps or forgeries.
Which catalogs list Castellorizo stamps?
Castellorizo stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under 'Italian Occupation of Castellorizo' or 'Italian Aegean Islands'), Michel (under 'Italienische Besetzung von Kastellorizo'), and Stanley Gibbons (under 'Italian Occupation Issues' or 'Italian Aegean Islands'). These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values.
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