Lombardy-Venetia Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Lombardy-Venetia Stamps
Lombardy-Venetia was a kingdom in Southern Europe, specifically Northern Italy, under the administration of the Austrian Empire following the Congress of Vienna in 1815. Its postal history is characterized by issues reflecting Austrian imperial control, with stamps primarily denominated in Austrian currency and often featuring Italian and German text due to the bilingual nature of the administration. The region’s distinct postal entity ceased to exist following the Second Italian War of Independence in 1859 for Lombardy and the Austro-Prussian War in 1866 for Venetia, after which its postal services were absorbed into the unified Kingdom of Italy.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1850 – 1864
- Languages:
- Italian, German
- Currency:
- ATS
- Parent issuer:
- Austrian Empire
Stamp Catalogs
Lombardy-Venetia stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Lombardy-Venetia Stamp Series
First Issue (Newspaper Stamps) (1850)
The very first stamps issued for Lombardy-Venetia, featuring the Austrian coat of arms and denominated in Kreuzer.
Franz Josef I Issues (1850-1864)
Stamps depicting Emperor Franz Josef I, common to the Austrian Empire but overprinted or specifically issued for Lombardy-Venetia, often with Italian and German inscriptions.
Newspaper Stamps (Mercury Head) (1851-1858)
Distinctive stamps featuring a Mercury head design, used specifically for newspaper postage within the region.
Lombardy-Venetia Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, especially unused or with rare cancellations, can be quite valuable. The 1850 Newspaper stamps and certain high-denomination Franz Josef I issues are particularly sought after. Condition plays a significant role.
How to Identify Lombardy-Venetia Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Lombardy-Venetia stamps:
- 1 Look for the portrait of Emperor Franz Josef I or the Austrian coat of arms.
- 2 Denominations are typically in Kreuzer (Kr.) or Soldi.
- 3 Stamps often feature bilingual inscriptions (Italian and German) or are part of the Austrian Empire's general issues but used within the Lombardy-Venetia region, identifiable by specific cancellations.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Lombardy-Venetia stamps?
Lombardy-Venetia stamps were issued for the Kingdom of Lombardy-Venetia, a territory in Northern Italy under Austrian Empire administration from 1815 to 1866. Their postal history reflects Austrian imperial control, with stamps often featuring Austrian designs and bilingual text (Italian and German) due to the region's unique political status.
Are Lombardy-Venetia stamps valuable?
Yes, many Lombardy-Venetia stamps can be quite valuable, especially early issues from the 1850s, rare cancellations, or high-denomination stamps in good condition. The 1850 Newspaper stamps and certain Franz Josef I issues are highly prized by collectors. Common used stamps might be in the €5-€50 range, while rare examples can fetch thousands of euros.
How can I identify Lombardy-Venetia stamps?
To identify Lombardy-Venetia stamps, look for the portrait of Emperor Franz Josef I or the Austrian coat of arms. Denominations are typically in Kreuzer or Soldi. Many stamps feature bilingual Italian and German text. Specific cancellations from cities like Milan, Venice, or Verona can also confirm their origin. For precise identification, use a stamp identifier app that can scan and match your stamps to catalog entries.
Which catalogs list Lombardy-Venetia stamps?
Lombardy-Venetia stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (typically under 'Austrian Italy' or 'Lombardy-Venetia'), the Michel Europa-Katalog (under 'Lombardei-Venetien'), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps Catalogue (often within the 'Italian States' or 'Austria' sections).
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