Don Cossack Government Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Don Cossack Government Stamps
The Don Cossack Government was a short-lived anti-Bolshevik entity established in Southern Russia during the Russian Civil War. This ephemeral state operated primarily within the Don River basin, a region of Eastern Europe historically associated with the Cossack Hetmanate. Its stamps, issued between 1918 and 1920, reflect a period of intense political upheaval, often featuring Cyrillic script and denominations tied to the collapsing Russian monetary system. The government's existence was terminated by the Red Army, leading to the absorption of its territory back into Soviet Russia.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Eastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1918 – 1920
- Languages:
- Russian
- Currency:
- RUB
- Parent issuer:
- Russian Empire
Stamp Catalogs
Don Cossack Government stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Don Cossack Government Stamp Series
First Provisional Issues (1918)
Provisional issues often surcharged on Russian Empire stamps, reflecting the immediate need for postal services.
Arms of the Don Host Province (1918-1919)
Stamps featuring the coat of arms of the Don Host Province, a key symbol of the Cossack identity and autonomy.
Pictorial Issues (1919-1920)
Later issues with more elaborate designs, sometimes depicting Cossack themes or local landmarks, though many were never officially issued or saw limited use.
Don Cossack Government Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Don Cossack Government stamps varies significantly based on condition, rarity, and whether they are genuine issues or forgeries. Many provisional issues and overprints are highly sought after, especially those with clear postmarks. Unissued or proof stamps can also command high prices.
How to Identify Don Cossack Government Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Don Cossack Government stamps:
- 1 Look for Cyrillic inscriptions, often including 'Донское Войско' (Don Army) or 'Почта' (Post).
- 2 Many stamps are overprints or surcharges on existing Russian Empire stamps.
- 3 Pay attention to the paper type, perforations, and watermarks, as these can be crucial for distinguishing genuine issues from reprints or forgeries.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Don Cossack Government stamps?
Don Cossack Government stamps are postage stamps issued by the anti-Bolshevik Don Cossack Government, a short-lived entity that controlled parts of Southern Russia during the Russian Civil War (1918-1920). These stamps reflect the turbulent political climate of the era.
Are Don Cossack Government stamps valuable?
Yes, many Don Cossack Government stamps can be valuable, particularly rare provisional issues, overprints, and those in fine condition with genuine period postmarks. Common issues might range from $5-$50, while rare examples can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Their historical significance also adds to their appeal.
How can I identify Don Cossack Government stamps?
To identify Don Cossack Government stamps, look for Cyrillic inscriptions, often including 'Донское Войско' or 'Почта', and designs that may feature the Don Host Province's coat of arms or be overprints on Russian Empire stamps. Consulting a specialized catalog is recommended. For quick identification, you can use a stamp identifier app that can analyze the stamp's features.
Which catalogs list Don Cossack Government stamps?
Don Cossack Government stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott (often under 'Russia - Civil War Issues' or 'Don Cossack Territory'), Michel (under 'Russland - Bürgerkriegsausgaben'), and Stanley Gibbons (under 'Russia - Civil War Issues'). Specialized catalogs for Russian and Civil War philately also provide detailed listings.
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