Epirus Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Epirus Stamps
Epirus is a historical region located in northwestern Greece and southern Albania, situated within the Balkan Peninsula of Southeastern Europe. Its postal history is complex, primarily reflecting periods under Ottoman rule before becoming integrated into the modern Greek state, with stamps often featuring Greek language and iconography. The region's administrative status has shifted significantly over time, particularly following the Balkan Wars, leading to distinct postal administrations in the northern and southern sections. While Epirus itself did not issue stamps independently for long, its postal history is intrinsically linked to the broader development of the Hellenic Post.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southeastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1914 – 1915
- Languages:
- Greek
- Currency:
- GRD
- Parent issuer:
- Greece
Stamp Catalogs
Epirus stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Epirus Stamp Series
Epirus 1914 Provisional Issues (1914)
The initial issues of Epirus, often overprinted on Greek stamps, reflecting the provisional government's authority.
Northern Epirus Issues (1914-1915)
Stamps issued by the Provisional Government of Northern Epirus, featuring distinct designs and overprints.
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Epirus Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Epirus stamps varies significantly based on the specific issue, overprint, condition, and rarity. Early provisional issues and those from Northern Epirus are generally more sought after. Forgeries and expertization are important considerations.
How to Identify Epirus Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Epirus stamps:
- 1 Look for Greek inscriptions and iconography, often with overprints indicating 'Epirus' or 'Northern Epirus'.
- 2 Pay attention to the specific overprint type and its authenticity, as many forgeries exist.
- 3 Examine the watermark (if any) and perforation details, which can help distinguish genuine issues from fakes.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Epirus stamps?
Epirus stamps refer to the postal issues from the historical region of Epirus, primarily during the period of the Provisional Government of Northern Epirus (1914-1915). These stamps often consist of overprinted Greek stamps or distinct designs reflecting the region's brief period of autonomy before its integration into Greece and Albania.
Are Epirus stamps valuable?
Yes, many Epirus stamps can be quite valuable, especially the early provisional issues and those from Northern Epirus. Rarity, condition, and the authenticity of overprints significantly influence their market price. Some rare varieties can fetch thousands of Euros at auction.
How can I identify Epirus stamps?
To identify Epirus stamps, look for Greek text and iconography, often with specific overprints like 'ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΟΙΚΗΣΙΣ ΗΠΕΙΡΟΥ' (Hellenic Administration of Epirus) or 'ΑΥΤΟΝΟΜΟΣ ΗΠΕΙΡΟΣ' (Autonomous Epirus). Consulting a specialized stamp catalog like Scott, Michel, or Stanley Gibbons is crucial. For quick identification, consider using a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list Epirus stamps?
Epirus stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under Greece or separate Epirus listings), Michel (under Griechenland / Epirus), and Stanley Gibbons (under Greece / Epirus). These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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