Mount Athos Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Mount Athos Stamps
Mount Athos, officially the Autonomous Monastic State of the Holy Mountain, is an autonomous region within Greece located on the Halkidiki peninsula in Northern Greece. While it is part of the Hellenic Republic, its unique status as a self-governing monastic community has resulted in a distinct postal history, primarily issuing stamps for internal use and mail destined for the outside world, often in conjunction with the Greek postal service. Stamps typically feature Greek text and are denominated in the Greek drachma or euro, reflecting its integration into the modern Greek state while maintaining its historical ecclesiastical governance.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- None – present
- Languages:
- Greek
- Currency:
- EUR
- Parent issuer:
- Greece
Stamp Catalogs
Mount Athos stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Mount Athos Stamp Series
Monastic Life and Byzantine Art (Various)
Stamps depicting monasteries, icons, and scenes from monastic life, often reflecting Byzantine artistic traditions.
Religious Figures and Saints (Various)
Issues featuring prominent saints and revered figures associated with Mount Athos and Orthodox Christianity.
Anniversaries of Monasteries (Various)
Commemorative stamps marking significant anniversaries of the founding or important events related to the various monasteries on Mount Athos.
Mount Athos Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Mount Athos stamps, especially modern issues, are generally affordable. Earlier or specific commemorative issues, particularly those with lower print runs or unique designs, can command higher prices. Covers with Mount Athos stamps and postal markings are also sought after.
How to Identify Mount Athos Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Mount Athos stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ΑΓΙΟΝ ΟΡΟΣ' (Agion Oros - Holy Mountain) or 'MOUNT ATHOS' inscriptions.
- 2 Stamps often feature Greek text and denominations in Greek Drachma (pre-2002) or Euro (post-2002).
- 3 Designs frequently depict monasteries, religious icons, or scenes from monastic life.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mount Athos stamps?
Mount Athos stamps are issued by the Autonomous Monastic State of the Holy Mountain, an autonomous region within Greece. They serve for internal postal services and mail destined for the outside world, often in conjunction with the Greek postal service, reflecting its unique ecclesiastical governance.
Are Mount Athos stamps valuable?
The value of Mount Athos stamps varies. Common modern issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from €0.50 to €5. However, certain earlier issues, commemorative sets, or stamps on covers with specific postal markings can be more valuable, potentially fetching €20 to over €200, depending on rarity and condition.
How can I identify Mount Athos stamps?
Mount Athos stamps can be identified by inscriptions like 'ΑΓΙΟΝ ΟΡΟΣ' or 'MOUNT ATHOS', Greek text, and denominations in Greek Drachma or Euro. Their designs often feature monasteries, religious icons, or monastic scenes. For quick identification, you can use a stamp identifier app which can scan and recognize stamps from Mount Athos.
Which catalogs list Mount Athos stamps?
Mount Athos stamps are typically listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
Not sure if your stamp is from Mount Athos?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store