Diber Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Diber (Albania) Stamps
Diber is a region located in the central-eastern part of Albania, situated within the Balkan Peninsula of Southeastern Europe. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to that of Albania, reflecting periods under Ottoman rule, subsequent independence, and later incorporation into the Kingdom of Albania and the People's Socialist Republic. Stamps issued for this region generally feature the Albanian language, utilizing the Latin script, and reflect the nation's evolving political landscape, including transitions from monarchy to communist rule. As Diber is a historical and administrative region rather than a sovereign postal entity, its postal issues are defined by the national postal administration of Albania.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southeastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1913 – 1913
- Languages:
- Albanian
- Currency:
- ALL
- Parent issuer:
- Albania
Stamp Catalogs
Diber (Albania) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Diber (Albania) Stamp Series
First Issues (1913)
Stamps issued locally during the period of Albanian independence, often overprinted on Ottoman or Albanian provisional issues.
Provisional Issues (1913)
Stamps used in the Diber region reflecting the transitional period of Albanian statehood, often with local overprints or cancellations.
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Diber (Albania) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Diber stamps is highly dependent on their authenticity, condition, and the specific overprints or cancellations. Provisional issues and those with clear Diber usage are generally more sought after. Forgeries and speculative issues exist, so expert authentication is crucial for higher-value items.
How to Identify Diber (Albania) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Diber (Albania) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'DIBRA' or 'DIBER' overprints on Albanian or Ottoman stamps.
- 2 Examine cancellations for place names associated with the Diber region.
- 3 Verify the authenticity of overprints, as many forgeries exist from this period.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Diber stamps?
Diber stamps refer to postal issues used in the Diber region of Albania, primarily during the tumultuous period of Albanian independence in 1913. These are often provisional issues, sometimes overprinted on existing Ottoman or early Albanian stamps, reflecting the local postal administration before a unified national system was fully established.
Are Diber stamps valuable?
Some Diber stamps can be quite valuable, especially genuine provisional issues, rare overprints, or those with clear historical provenance. However, many common or forged items have little value. Rarity, condition, and expert authentication play a significant role in determining their worth, with prices ranging from a few euros for common items to hundreds or even thousands for rare authenticated pieces.
How can I identify Diber stamps?
To identify Diber stamps, look for specific overprints like 'DIBRA' or 'DIBER' on stamps from the Ottoman Empire or early Albania. Pay close attention to the cancellations, which might bear local Diber postmark names. Due to the prevalence of forgeries, comparing your stamp to known authentic examples in a specialized catalog or using a stamp identifier app can be very helpful. For definitive identification, consult a philatelic expert.
Which catalogs list Diber stamps?
Diber stamps are typically listed within major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, usually under the Albania section or as specific provisional issues. Specialized catalogs focusing on Albanian philately will provide the most detailed information. These catalogs will help you identify specific issues, variations, and provide estimated values.
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