Postage Stamps of Bulgaria

Early History (Before 1879)

  • Pre-Philatelic Era: Before Bulgaria began issuing its own stamps, postal services in the region were managed by the Ottoman Empire. These services used a combination of handstamps, wax seals, and other pre-adhesive methods,
  • Independence and First Issue: After gaining independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1878, Bulgaria issued its first postage stamps in 1879. These stamps featured the lion of Bulgaria, symbolizing the nation’s strength and independence.

    Bulgarian postage stamp

  • Lion Definitives: The initial series included denominations from 5 santims to 25 santims, each featuring a detailed engraving of a lion.

Kingdom of Bulgaria (1908-1946)

  • Formation of the Kingdom: Bulgaria declared itself a kingdom in 1908. Stamps from this era often depicted the reigning monarchs, including Ferdinand I and later Boris III.

Notable Issues:

  • Ferdinand I Definitive Series: Featuring various portraits of King Ferdinand I in different frames and settings.
  • Commemorative Issues: Celebrating national events such as the 25th anniversary of King Ferdinand’s reign in 1912.
  • Themes: Historical events, royal anniversaries, national achievements, and cultural landmarks were common themes.

Interwar Period and World War II (1918-1945)

  • Post-World War I: Following World War I, Bulgaria issued stamps reflecting national pride and territorial changes.
  • World War II: During the war, Bulgarian stamps depicted military themes, alliances with Axis powers, and wartime propaganda.

Communist Era (1946-1990)

  • People’s Republic of Bulgaria: In 1946, Bulgaria became a communist state. Stamps from this era featured socialist realism, industrial achievements, and significant political events.
  • Themes: Stamps often depicted workers, factories, collective farming, and communist leaders. Notable series include those commemorating Soviet-Bulgarian friendship and the country’s industrial progress.

Modern Bulgaria (1990-Present)

  • Transition to Democracy: Following the fall of communism in 1990, Bulgaria transitioned to a democratic republic. Modern stamps reflect the nation’s cultural heritage, historical events, and natural beauty.
  • Characteristics: Modern Bulgarian stamps celebrate the country’s heritage, culture, natural beauty, and significant historical events.
  • Notable Series and Issues:- 1990 First Democratic Issues: Reflecting Bulgaria’s new political landscape.
  • Cultural Heritage: Stamps showcasing Bulgaria’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, traditional folk art, and historical architecture.
  • Nature and Wildlife: Featuring the country’s rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes.
  • Historical Figures and Events: Commemorating important personalities and milestones in Bulgarian history.

Key Highlights

  • First Bulgarian Stamps (1879): Marking the beginning of Bulgarian philately with the iconic Lion definitives.
  • Royal and Historical Themes: Stamps from the Kingdom of Bulgaria, celebrating royal figures and national milestones.
  • Communist Era Propaganda: Reflecting the political and social changes during the mid-20th century.
  • Modern Independence (1990): Stamps from the democratic era, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary themes.