Cilicia Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Cilicia (French Occupation) Stamps
Cilicia, situated in southeastern Anatolia bordering the Mediterranean Sea, experienced a complex postal history shaped by its strategic location near the Levant. During the early 20th century, its postal administration was heavily influenced by the shifting control between the Ottoman Empire and subsequent French mandates following World War I. Stamps issued during this transitional period often feature French or Ottoman Turkish inscriptions, reflecting the administrative changes and the region's eventual incorporation into the Republic of Turkey. The area's postal services were frequently subject to provisional issues reflecting periods of military occupation or administrative uncertainty.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Levant
- Issuing period:
- 1919 – 1919
- Languages:
- French, Ottoman Turkish
- Currency:
- French Franc
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
Cilicia (French Occupation) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Cilicia (French Occupation) Stamp Series
Cilicie Occupation Issues (1919)
Stamps of Turkey overprinted 'CILICIE' or 'T.E.O.' (Territoires Ennemis Occupés) by French forces.
Cilicie Postage Due Issues (1919)
Turkish postage due stamps overprinted for use in Cilicia under French occupation.
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Cilicia (French Occupation) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on the specific overprint, the underlying Turkish stamp, condition, and whether they are used or unused. Errors and varieties are particularly sought after.
How to Identify Cilicia (French Occupation) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Cilicia (French Occupation) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'CILICIE' or 'T.E.O.' overprints, typically in black, on stamps originally issued by the Ottoman Empire (Turkey).
- 2 Examine the underlying Turkish stamp design and denomination to confirm the base issue. Overprints can be in various forms and orientations.
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Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cilicia stamps?
Cilicia stamps refer to postage stamps issued during the French occupation of the Cilicia region in southeastern Anatolia, primarily in 1919. These were typically stamps of the Ottoman Empire (Turkey) overprinted with 'CILICIE' or 'T.E.O.' (Territoires Ennemis Occupés) by the French military administration.
Are Cilicia stamps valuable?
The value of Cilicia stamps can vary widely. Common issues might be worth a few euros, while rarer overprints, specific varieties, or stamps in pristine condition can fetch hundreds or even thousands of euros. Factors like the underlying Turkish stamp, the type and clarity of the overprint, and postal history significantly influence their value.
How can I identify Cilicia stamps?
To identify Cilicia stamps, look for the distinctive 'CILICIE' or 'T.E.O.' overprints on stamps that are clearly of Turkish origin. Pay attention to the font, color, and placement of the overprint. Using a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app can help confirm the specific issue and its authenticity.
Which catalogs list Cilicia stamps?
Cilicia stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott (under 'French Occupation of Turkey - Cilicia'), Michel (under 'Türkei - Französische Besetzung'), and Stanley Gibbons (under 'Turkey - French Occupation of Cilicia'). These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values.
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