Dodecanese Islands Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Dodecanese Islands Stamps
The Dodecanese Islands are an archipelago in the southeastern Aegean Sea, geographically part of Southern Europe and politically associated with Greece. Their postal history is marked by periods of foreign administration, notably under Ottoman rule followed by Italian occupation from 1912 until their incorporation into Greece after World War II. Stamps issued during the Italian period often featured Italian text alongside Greek, reflecting the administrative language of the time. The transition to Greek sovereignty resulted in the definitive adoption of Greek language and currency on subsequent issues.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1947 – 1947
- Languages:
- Greek, Italian
- Currency:
- GRD
- Parent issuer:
- Greece
Stamp Catalogs
Dodecanese Islands stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Dodecanese Islands Stamp Series
Provisional Issues (1947)
Stamps overprinted with 'ΔΩΔΕΚΑΝΗΣΑ' (Dodecanese) and new values, marking the transition to Greek administration.
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Dodecanese Islands Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Dodecanese Islands stamps from this brief period is primarily driven by the provisional overprints on Greek stamps. Rarity can increase for complete sets, specific varieties, or stamps on cover.
How to Identify Dodecanese Islands Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Dodecanese Islands stamps:
- 1 Look for the overprint 'ΔΩΔΕΚΑΝΗΣΑ' (Dodecanese) and new denominations on Greek stamps.
- 2 Stamps from this period are typically Greek issues overprinted for local use during the transition.
- 3 issuer:dodecanese-islands.identification.tips.2
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Dodecanese Islands stamps?
Dodecanese Islands stamps refer to the postal issues used in the Dodecanese archipelago, particularly during the transitional period in 1947 when they were formally incorporated into Greece after decades of Italian occupation. These are often Greek stamps overprinted for use in the islands.
Are Dodecanese Islands stamps valuable?
The value of Dodecanese Islands stamps can vary. Common issues are generally affordable, ranging from €0.50 to €5. Rarer varieties, complete sets, or stamps with specific overprint errors can fetch higher prices, sometimes exceeding €100. Their value is often tied to their historical significance as transitional issues.
How can I identify Dodecanese Islands stamps?
To identify Dodecanese Islands stamps from the 1947 period, look for Greek stamps that bear the overprint 'ΔΩΔΕΚΑΝΗΣΑ' (Dodecanese) and often new monetary values. Earlier issues from the Italian occupation period will feature Italian text. A stamp identifier app can help quickly identify these stamps and provide more details.
Which catalogs list Dodecanese Islands stamps?
Dodecanese Islands stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated values for collectors.
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