Italian Eritrea Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Italian Eritrea Stamps
Italian Eritrea, located in the Horn of Africa, was an Italian colony established in the late 19th century. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the Kingdom of Italy, with stamps initially featuring Italian denominations and often bilingual inscriptions reflecting the colonial administration. The territory's stamps document the period of Italian rule, including the establishment of infrastructure and the subsequent transition following Italy's defeat in World War II. After 1941, the postal service transitioned through British military administration before eventually becoming part of the Ethiopian federation.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1893 – 1936
- Languages:
- Italian, Tigrinya, Amharic
- Currency:
- ITL
- Parent issuer:
- Italy
Stamp Catalogs
Italian Eritrea stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Italian Eritrea Stamp Series
Postage Due Stamps (1903-1930s)
Early issues often overprinted on Italian stamps, later definitive designs.
Definitive Issues (1903-1936)
Featuring various designs including King Victor Emmanuel III, local landscapes, and allegorical figures.
Colonial Exhibition Series (1932)
Stamps issued for the Colonial Art Exhibition in Naples, often depicting colonial scenes.
Italian Eritrea Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early overprints, higher denominations, and stamps in pristine condition or on cover tend to be more valuable. Errors and varieties are also sought after.
How to Identify Italian Eritrea Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Italian Eritrea stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ERITREA' or 'COLONIA ERITREA' inscriptions.
- 2 Many early issues are Italian stamps overprinted with 'ERITREA' or 'COLONIA ERITREA'.
- 3 Denominations are typically in Italian Lire (Cent. or L.).
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Italian Eritrea stamps?
Italian Eritrea stamps are postage stamps issued for the Italian colony of Eritrea in the Horn of Africa, from 1893 until its incorporation into Italian East Africa in 1936. They reflect Italian colonial administration and often feature Italian denominations and bilingual inscriptions.
Are Italian Eritrea stamps valuable?
The value of Italian Eritrea stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rare early overprints, high denominations, errors, and stamps in excellent condition or on original covers can fetch hundreds of euros or more. Consult a philatelic catalog for specific values.
How can I identify Italian Eritrea stamps?
To identify Italian Eritrea stamps, look for inscriptions like 'ERITREA' or 'COLONIA ERITREA'. Many early stamps are Italian issues overprinted for use in the colony. Denominations are in Italian Lire. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly identify specific issues and learn more about them.
Which catalogs list Italian Eritrea stamps?
Italian Eritrea stamps are listed in major international philatelic catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, designs, and estimated values.
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