Scarpanto Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Scarpanto (Karpathos) Stamps
Scarpanto, known today as Karpathos, is a Greek island situated in the southeastern Aegean Sea, geographically part of the Dodecanese island group. Its postal history reflects periods of foreign administration, notably under Italian rule from 1912 to 1947, before incorporation into Greece. Stamps issued during these transitional eras often feature Italian or Greek inscriptions alongside local place names. The island's philatelic record is marked by the shift from Italian sovereignty to its current status within the Hellenic Republic's postal system.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1912 – 1932
- Languages:
- Italian, Greek
- Currency:
- ITL
- Parent issuer:
- Italy
Stamp Catalogs
Scarpanto (Karpathos) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Scarpanto (Karpathos) Stamp Series
Italian Occupation Overprints (1912-1913)
Italian stamps overprinted 'SCARPANTO' issued during the initial occupation period.
Italian Stamps for Aegean Islands (1912-1929)
General issues for the Italian Aegean Islands, including Scarpanto, often featuring local place names or specific designs.
Propaganda Fide Issues (1929)
Stamps issued for the Propaganda Fide Congress, overprinted for use in the Aegean Islands, including Scarpanto.
Scarpanto (Karpathos) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value depends heavily on the specific overprint, condition, and whether it's part of a complete set. Early occupation overprints and errors can be significantly more valuable.
How to Identify Scarpanto (Karpathos) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Scarpanto (Karpathos) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'SCARPANTO' overprints on Italian stamps.
- 2 Examine the design for typical Italian colonial or Dodecanese issues.
- 3 Check for Italian inscriptions and denominations (e.g., Centesimi, Lire).
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Scarpanto stamps?
Scarpanto stamps are postage stamps issued for the Greek island of Karpathos (historically known as Scarpanto) during its period of Italian occupation, primarily from 1912 to 1932. These often consist of Italian stamps overprinted with 'SCARPANTO' or specific issues for the Italian Aegean Islands.
Are Scarpanto stamps valuable?
The value of Scarpanto stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rare overprints, complete sets, or stamps in pristine condition can fetch hundreds of euros. Factors like rarity, condition, and specific overprint variations significantly influence their market price.
How can I identify Scarpanto stamps?
To identify Scarpanto stamps, look for the 'SCARPANTO' overprint on Italian stamps, or designs characteristic of the Italian Aegean Islands. Pay attention to the denominations and any Italian text. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamps to catalog entries and learn more about them.
Which catalogs list Scarpanto stamps?
Scarpanto stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under Italian Colonies or Aegean Islands), Michel (under Italienische Post in der Ägäis), and Stanley Gibbons (under Italian Colonies). These catalogs provide detailed information, images, and estimated values.
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