Serbia Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Serbia Stamps
Serbia is a landlocked nation situated in Southeastern Europe, primarily within the Balkan Peninsula. Its postal history is complex, reflecting periods of Ottoman rule, the establishment of an independent principality, and its role within the Kingdom of Yugoslavia and subsequent socialist states. Serbian stamps predominantly feature the Serbian language, often utilizing the Cyrillic script, though historical issues may show other regional languages. The country has undergone significant political transformations, including the dissolution of Yugoslavia, which directly impacted its postal administration and the issuance of definitive and commemorative series.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southeastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1866 – present
- Languages:
- Serbian
- Currency:
- RSD
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Stamp Catalogs
Serbia stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Serbia Stamp Series
Prince Milan Obrenović IV (1866-1880s)
Serbia's first definitive stamps, featuring the portrait of Prince Milan Obrenović IV, often with intricate designs and varying perforations.
King Peter I Liberator (1904-1918)
A long-running series depicting King Peter I, commemorating his reign and often featuring allegorical figures or national symbols.
Serbian Occupation of Hungary (Baranya-Baja) (1918-1921)
Provisional issues and overprints used during the Serbian occupation of parts of Hungary after WWI, highly sought after by specialists.
Serbia Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early Serbian issues, especially those from the 19th century and provisional issues from periods of conflict (e.g., occupation stamps), can be quite valuable. Condition, cancellations, and specific varieties play a significant role in determining value. Modern definitive stamps are generally inexpensive.
How to Identify Serbia Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Serbia stamps:
- 1 Look for Cyrillic script, often 'Србија' (Srbija) or 'Краљевина Србија' (Kraljevina Srbija) for older issues.
- 2 Early stamps frequently feature portraits of Serbian monarchs (Prince Milan, King Peter I).
- 3 Many stamps from the Yugoslavian period will bear 'Jugoslavija' or 'Југославија' in addition to Serbian text.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Serbia stamps?
Serbia stamps are postage stamps issued by the postal administration of Serbia, a landlocked nation in Southeastern Europe. Their history dates back to 1866 and reflects the country's complex political journey, including periods as an independent principality, part of Yugoslavia, and its modern independent state.
Are Serbia stamps valuable?
The value of Serbia stamps varies widely. Early issues from the 19th century, particularly those in fine condition or with rare cancellations, can be quite valuable, ranging from €50 to several thousand euros. Provisional issues and stamps from periods of conflict are also highly sought after. More common modern stamps typically have a modest value, often in the range of €0.20 to €5.
How can I identify Serbia stamps?
You can identify Serbia stamps by looking for the country name 'Србија' (Srbija) or 'Краљевина Србија' (Kraljevina Srbija) in Cyrillic script, especially on older issues. Portraits of Serbian monarchs like Prince Milan or King Peter I are common on 19th and early 20th-century stamps. For a quick and accurate identification, use a stamp identifier app that can scan the stamp and provide details.
Which catalogs list Serbia stamps?
Serbia stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel catalog (especially Michel Ost-Europa), and the Stanley Gibbons catalog. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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