Mt. Lebanon Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Mt. Lebanon Stamps
Mt. Lebanon, situated in Western Asia on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea, experienced a complex postal history under Ottoman rule before becoming a mandated territory under French administration following World War I. Stamps from this period often featured French text alongside Arabic, reflecting the political control and the region's diverse linguistic environment. The territory transitioned through various administrative phases, including the autonomous Mutasarrifate and later the State of Greater Lebanon, with stamp issues reflecting these evolving political statuses until the establishment of modern Lebanon.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Levant
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- French, Arabic, Ottoman Turkish
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- Ottoman Empire
Stamp Catalogs
Mt. Lebanon stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Mt. Lebanon Stamp Series
Local Post of Mt. Lebanon (1861)
The only known issues for Mt. Lebanon as a distinct entity, these stamps were privately issued for local use within the Mutasarrifate of Mount Lebanon.
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Mt. Lebanon Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Stamps from Mt. Lebanon are highly sought after due to their rarity and historical significance. The 1861 issues, often found with local cancellations, command significant prices, especially in good condition. Forgeries are known, so expert authentication is crucial.
How to Identify Mt. Lebanon Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Mt. Lebanon stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'MONT LIBAN' or 'MT. LIBAN' (sometimes 'POSTE LOCALE')
- 2 Examine the design, which typically features a cedar tree or a simple numerical design.
- 3 Pay attention to the cancellation marks, which can indicate local usage within the Mutasarrifate.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mt. Lebanon stamps?
Mt. Lebanon stamps refer to the postal issues from the autonomous Mutasarrifate of Mount Lebanon, a distinct administrative region within the Ottoman Empire. The most notable issues are the local stamps from 1861, which were privately produced for internal postal services before the widespread use of Ottoman or later French mandate stamps.
Are Mt. Lebanon stamps valuable?
Yes, stamps from Mt. Lebanon are generally considered valuable, particularly the 1861 local issues. Their rarity, historical context, and the limited period of their use contribute to their high demand among collectors. Prices can range from tens to thousands of Euros, depending on condition, specific variety, and cancellation.
How can I identify Mt. Lebanon stamps?
To identify Mt. Lebanon stamps, look for the specific inscriptions 'MONT LIBAN' or 'MT. LIBAN' and the characteristic designs, often featuring a cedar tree or numerical values. Knowledge of the specific issues from 1861 is key. For precise identification and authentication, using a stamp identifier app or consulting a philatelic expert is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Mt. Lebanon stamps?
Mt. Lebanon stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on the various issues, their characteristics, and estimated values, which are essential resources for collectors.
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