Romagna Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Romagna Stamps
Romagna, situated in the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy, possesses a complex postal history rooted in its status as a collection of independent states before unification. Historically, this area was part of the Papal States, leading to a period where postal administration was heavily influenced by the Holy See, with stamps often featuring Italian or Latin inscriptions. The region experienced significant political transitions, including brief independence during the Risorgimento, before being incorporated into the Kingdom of Italy in 1860, which standardized its postal system under the national Italian framework.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1859 – 1859
- Languages:
- Italian, Latin
- Currency:
- ITL
- Parent issuer:
- Papal States
Stamp Catalogs
Romagna stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Romagna Stamp Series
Provisional Government Issues (1859)
The only series issued by Romagna, featuring the Papal Tiara and Crossed Keys, overprinted with 'FRANCO BOLLO POSTALE' and value.
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Romagna Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Stamps of Romagna are generally scarce due to their limited issue period and the political instability of the time. Condition significantly impacts value, with unused and well-centered examples fetching premium prices. Forgeries are known to exist.
How to Identify Romagna Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Romagna stamps:
- 1 Look for the design featuring the Papal Tiara and Crossed Keys, characteristic of the Papal States, but with the specific 'FRANCO BOLLO POSTALE' inscription and value in centesimi.
- 2 Pay attention to the watermark (crossed keys and tiara) and the specific shades of color, as these can differentiate genuine issues from forgeries or reprints.
- 3 Examine the cancellation marks; genuine cancellations from the period are crucial for authenticating used examples.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Romagna stamps?
Romagna stamps refer to the postal issues of the Provisional Government of Romagna, a short-lived political entity that existed in 1859 during the Italian Risorgimento. These stamps were used in the region before its incorporation into the Kingdom of Sardinia and subsequently the unified Kingdom of Italy.
Are Romagna stamps valuable?
Yes, Romagna stamps are generally considered valuable due to their historical significance, limited print run, and short period of use. Common used examples can fetch hundreds of Euros, while rare varieties, unused stamps, or those with specific cancellations can be worth thousands. Condition and authenticity are key factors in determining value.
How can I identify Romagna stamps?
Romagna stamps are identifiable by their distinctive design featuring the Papal Tiara and Crossed Keys, along with the inscription 'FRANCO BOLLO POSTALE' and the value in centesimi. They were issued in various denominations and colors. To accurately identify them and distinguish them from forgeries, consult a specialized catalog or use a stamp identifier app that can analyze the design, watermarks, and perforations.
Which catalogs list Romagna stamps?
Romagna stamps are listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (as part of the Italian States), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, values, and historical context, which is essential for collectors.
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