Italian Ethiopia Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Italian Ethiopia Stamps
Italian Ethiopia, encompassing the territory of modern-day Ethiopia and Eritrea, was a colonial possession in the Horn of Africa. Its postal history is defined by the Italian occupation and subsequent establishment of the East African colony, with stamps primarily issued between 1936 and 1941 following the Second Italo-Ethiopian War. Issues from this period predominantly feature Italian text and denominations, often reflecting the administrative structure of Italian East Africa (Africa Orientale Italiana). The postal system was integrated into the Italian colonial network until the territory was liberated by Allied forces during the East African Campaign of World War II.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1936 – 1941
- Languages:
- Italian, Amharic
- Currency:
- ITL
- Parent issuer:
- Italy
Stamp Catalogs
Italian Ethiopia stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Italian Ethiopia Stamp Series
Victory of Addis Ababa Overprints (1936)
Italian stamps overprinted 'ETIOPIA' and 'ADDIS ABABA' to commemorate the Italian victory and occupation.
Italian East Africa (AOI) Issues (1938-1941)
Stamps specifically inscribed 'AFRICA ORIENTALE ITALIANA' (AOI) for use across the Italian East African colony, including Ethiopia.
Propaganda and Commemorative Issues (1936-1941)
Stamps depicting Italian colonial themes, portraits of Mussolini, and commemorating events related to the Italian Empire.
Italian Ethiopia Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available. Overprints, specific varieties, and higher denominations in fine condition can command significant prices. Full sets and postal history items are also more valuable.
How to Identify Italian Ethiopia Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Italian Ethiopia stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ETIOPIA' or 'AFRICA ORIENTALE ITALIANA' (AOI) inscriptions.
- 2 Denominations are typically in Italian Lire (Cent. and Lire).
- 3 Designs often feature Italian monarchs, Fascist symbols, or colonial imagery.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Italian Ethiopia stamps?
Italian Ethiopia stamps are postage stamps issued by the Italian administration for use in the territory of Ethiopia (and broader Italian East Africa) during its occupation by Italy, primarily between 1936 and 1941. They often feature Italian text and denominations.
Are Italian Ethiopia stamps valuable?
The value of Italian Ethiopia stamps varies. Common issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from €0.50 to €5. However, certain overprints, rare varieties, higher denominations, and stamps on cover can be quite valuable, potentially reaching €50 to over €500, especially in fine condition.
How can I identify Italian Ethiopia stamps?
To identify Italian Ethiopia stamps, look for inscriptions like 'ETIOPIA' or 'AFRICA ORIENTALE ITALIANA' (AOI), and Italian currency denominations (Cent. and Lire). Designs often reflect Italian colonial themes. For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized catalogs.
Which catalogs list Italian Ethiopia stamps?
Italian Ethiopia stamps are listed in major stamp catalogs, including Scott (under Ethiopia or Italian East Africa), Michel (under Italienische Kolonien or Äthiopien), and Stanley Gibbons (under Italian Colonies or Ethiopia).
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