Central Lithuania Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Central Lithuania Stamps
Central Lithuania, a short-lived state established in 1919, occupied a region within modern-day Lithuania, primarily centered around Vilnius. Its postal history is brief and directly tied to the tumultuous post-World War I period of national self-determination and conflict over territorial claims in Eastern Europe. Stamps from this era predominantly feature the Lithuanian language, often reflecting the political aspirations of the newly declared republic amidst shifting borders. The entity was quickly absorbed into the larger Lithuanian state, making its postal issues a significant marker of a specific, transitional phase in Lithuanian history.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Eastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1920 – 1922
- Languages:
- Lithuanian, Polish
- Currency:
- PLM
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Stamp Catalogs
Central Lithuania stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Central Lithuania Stamp Series
First Issue (Vilnius View) (1920)
The initial stamps of Central Lithuania, often depicting a view of Vilnius, overprinted on Russian or Polish stamps.
Regular Issues (1920-1921)
Definitive stamps with various designs, including allegorical figures and national symbols, issued after the initial overprints.
Airmail Stamps (1921)
A limited series of airmail stamps, distinctive for their designs and relative scarcity.
Central Lithuania Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are affordable, especially used. Mint condition and specific varieties (e.g., errors, rare overprints) can command significant prices. Airmail issues and early overprints are generally more valuable.
How to Identify Central Lithuania Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Central Lithuania stamps:
- 1 Look for 'LITWA ŚRODKOWA' or 'LITWA CENTRALNA' inscriptions.
- 2 Many early issues are overprints on stamps of Russia or Poland.
- 3 Designs often feature nationalistic symbols or views of Vilnius.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Central Lithuania stamps?
Central Lithuania stamps were issued by a short-lived, self-proclaimed state that existed between 1920 and 1922, primarily centered around Vilnius. Its postal issues reflect the complex political landscape of post-WWI Eastern Europe before its integration into Poland.
Are Central Lithuania stamps valuable?
The value of Central Lithuania stamps varies. Common used stamps are generally inexpensive (€1-€10). However, rare varieties, specific overprints, errors, and mint condition examples, particularly airmail issues, can be quite valuable, reaching hundreds or even thousands of Euros.
How can I identify Central Lithuania stamps?
To identify Central Lithuania stamps, look for inscriptions like 'LITWA ŚRODKOWA' or 'LITWA CENTRALNA'. Many early issues are overprints on stamps of other countries. For precise identification and to determine varieties, using a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Central Lithuania stamps?
Central Lithuania stamps are listed in major international philatelic catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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