Ukraine Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Ukraine Stamps
Ukraine is a large nation situated in Eastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea. Its postal history is complex, reflecting periods under the Russian Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and the Soviet Union, leading to distinct issues during its brief independence in 1918–1920 and subsequent sovereignty since 1991. Stamps predominantly feature the Cyrillic script, often displaying Ukrainian language alongside Russian during Soviet times. The transition from Soviet postal administration to the independent Ukrposhta system marks a significant shift in its philatelic record.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Eastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1918 – present
- Languages:
- Ukrainian, Russian
- Currency:
- UAH
- issuer:ukraine.overview.parentIssuer:
- issuer:ukraine.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Ukraine stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Ukraine Stamp Series
First Definitive Issues (Trident) (1918-1920)
The initial stamps of independent Ukraine, featuring the national emblem (Trident) and often crudely printed, reflecting the tumultuous period.
Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic Issues (1923-1991)
While not a separate issuer in the traditional sense, stamps issued for use in the Ukrainian SSR during the Soviet era often depicted Ukrainian themes or were part of all-Union issues with Ukrainian inscriptions.
First Issues of Independent Ukraine (1992-present)
Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Ukraine began issuing its own stamps, initially overprints on Soviet stamps, then new designs celebrating Ukrainian culture, history, and nature.
Ukraine Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early independent issues (1918-1920) can be quite valuable, especially rare varieties, errors, and covers. Soviet-era stamps are generally inexpensive unless they are rare errors or specific commemorative sets. Modern Ukrainian stamps, particularly those related to recent events, have seen significant collector interest and value increases.
How to Identify Ukraine Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Ukraine stamps:
- 1 Look for the Cyrillic script, often with the word 'УКРАЇНА' (Ukraine).
- 2 Early issues (1918-1920) frequently feature the Ukrainian Trident (Tryzub) emblem.
- 3 Soviet-era stamps used in Ukraine will bear 'ПОЧТА СССР' (Post of USSR) but may depict Ukrainian themes.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ukraine stamps?
Ukraine stamps are postage stamps issued by various postal authorities governing the territory of Ukraine, including its brief periods of independence (1918-1920), its time as a Soviet Republic, and its current independent state since 1991. They reflect a rich and complex history through their designs and inscriptions.
Are Ukraine stamps valuable?
The value of Ukraine stamps varies significantly. Early independent issues from 1918-1920, especially rare varieties, errors, and stamps on cover, can be quite valuable, reaching hundreds or even thousands of Euros. Soviet-era stamps are generally less valuable unless they are specific commemoratives or errors. Modern Ukrainian stamps, particularly those issued since 2022, have seen a surge in popularity and value due to their historical significance and artistic merit.
How can I identify Ukraine stamps?
You can identify Ukraine stamps by looking for the Cyrillic inscription 'УКРАЇНА' (Ukraine) or 'УКРПОШТА' (Ukrposhta) on modern issues. Early independent stamps often feature the Ukrainian Trident emblem. During the Soviet era, stamps would bear 'ПОЧТА СССР' but might depict Ukrainian themes. For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app that can scan your stamp and provide detailed information.
Which catalogs list Ukraine stamps?
Ukraine stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue includes them under 'Ukraine' and 'Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic'. Michel (Germany) and Stanley Gibbons (UK) also provide extensive listings for Ukrainian philately, covering all periods of its postal history.
Not sure if your stamp is from Ukraine?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store