Chios Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Chios (Greek Provisional Issues) Stamps
Chios is a major island in the Aegean Sea, geographically part of the North Aegean archipelago within Europe. Although historically associated with various powers, its modern postal history is deeply intertwined with the Ottoman Empire and subsequent integration into the Kingdom of Greece. Stamps issued during periods of autonomous or contested administration often feature Greek language, reflecting the island's dominant cultural identity. The island's postal administration transitioned significantly following the Balkan Wars, solidifying its status as part of the modern Greek state.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1913 – 1913
- Languages:
- Greek
- Currency:
- GRD
- Parent issuer:
- Greece
Stamp Catalogs
Chios (Greek Provisional Issues) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Chios (Greek Provisional Issues) Stamp Series
Provisional Issues (1913) (1913)
Stamps of Greece overprinted 'ΧΙΟΣ' (Chios) or 'ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΟΙΚΗΣΙΣ' (Hellenic Administration) for use during the temporary Greek administration after liberation from Ottoman rule.
Surcharged Issues (1913) (1913)
Greek stamps with manuscript or handstamped surcharges in various denominations, often due to a shortage of specific values.
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Chios (Greek Provisional Issues) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Chios provisional issues varies significantly based on the specific overprint, surcharge, condition, and rarity of the underlying Greek stamp. Manuscript surcharges and rare overprint varieties can command high prices. Forgeries are known, so expert authentication is crucial for valuable items.
How to Identify Chios (Greek Provisional Issues) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Chios (Greek Provisional Issues) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ΧΙΟΣ' (Chios) or 'ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΟΙΚΗΣΙΣ' (Hellenic Administration) overprints on stamps of the Kingdom of Greece.
- 2 Examine for handstamped or manuscript surcharges on Greek stamps.
- 3 Pay close attention to the font and alignment of overprints and surcharges, as variations and forgeries exist.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Chios stamps?
Chios stamps refer to provisional issues used on the Greek island of Chios in 1913, following its liberation from the Ottoman Empire during the Balkan Wars. These were typically stamps of the Kingdom of Greece overprinted with 'ΧΙΟΣ' (Chios) or 'ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΟΙΚΗΣΙΣ' (Hellenic Administration), or handstamped with new values, to serve the local postal needs before full integration into the Greek postal system.
Are Chios stamps valuable?
Yes, many Chios provisional stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare overprint varieties, specific surcharge errors, or stamps in fine condition. Their value is influenced by the scarcity of the overprint/surcharge, the underlying Greek stamp, and their historical significance. Common examples might be affordable, but rare items can fetch hundreds or even thousands of Euros.
How can I identify Chios stamps?
To identify Chios stamps, look for the distinctive overprints 'ΧΙΟΣ' or 'ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΟΙΚΗΣΙΣ' on stamps originally issued by the Kingdom of Greece. Also, check for handstamped or manuscript surcharges. Comparing your stamps with catalog images is essential. For precise identification and authentication, especially for potentially valuable items, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a philatelic expert.
Which catalogs list Chios stamps?
Chios provisional issues are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott (under Greece - Chios), Michel (under Griechenland - Chios), and Stanley Gibbons (under Greece - Chios). These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values for these historically significant stamps.
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