San Marino Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About San Marino Stamps
San Marino, an enclave situated entirely within Italy on the European continent, possesses one of the world's oldest continuous republican histories. Its postal system, while historically influenced by neighboring Italian administrations, has maintained independent issuance, joining the Universal Postal Union in 1875. Stamps predominantly feature Italian as the official language, reflecting the surrounding linguistic environment. The nation's long-standing sovereignty has ensured a consistent, independent philatelic record throughout the modern era, largely unaffected by colonial rule or major 20th-century political transitions that impacted larger neighbors.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1877 – present
- Languages:
- Italian
- Currency:
- EUR
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Stamp Catalogs
San Marino stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular San Marino Stamp Series
Definitive Issues (1877-present)
Long-running series featuring national symbols, rulers, and architectural landmarks, often with intricate designs.
Europa Issues (1956-present)
Part of the annual Europa stamp program, showcasing various themes related to European cooperation and culture.
Art and Culture (Various)
Stamps depicting famous artworks, historical figures, and cultural events, reflecting San Marino's rich heritage.
San Marino Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, especially those in fine condition or with rare cancellations, can command significant prices. Later commemorative issues are generally more affordable, though complete sets or specific errors can be valuable.
How to Identify San Marino Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying San Marino stamps:
- 1 Look for 'REPUBBLICA DI SAN MARINO' or 'SAN MARINO' as the country inscription.
- 2 Stamps are typically denominated in Italian Lira (pre-2002) or Euro (post-2002).
- 3 Many early issues feature the coat of arms or allegorical figures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are San Marino stamps?
San Marino stamps are postage stamps issued by the Republic of San Marino, an independent enclave within Italy. They have been issued since 1877 and are known for their artistic designs and historical significance.
Are San Marino stamps valuable?
The value of San Marino stamps varies widely. Early issues, particularly those from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, can be quite valuable, especially in mint condition or with rare postmarks. Later commemorative issues are generally more common and affordable, though complete sets or specific varieties can still hold good value. Condition is a major factor in determining worth.
How can I identify San Marino stamps?
San Marino stamps are primarily identified by the inscription 'REPUBBLICA DI SAN MARINO' or 'SAN MARINO'. They are also characterized by their Italian language text and denominations in Italian Lira (before 2002) or Euro (after 2002). For precise identification and valuation, you can use a stamp identifier app like StampValue, which can scan your stamps and provide detailed information.
Which catalogs list San Marino stamps?
San Marino stamps are comprehensively listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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