Postage Stamps from Eastern Romania

Postage stamps from Eastern Romania, particularly those associated with regions like Moldavia and the Dobruja, reflect the region’s rich and diverse historical context. These areas have seen various administrative changes, which are mirrored in their postal issues. Here is a detailed look at the postage stamps from Eastern Romania:

Key Historical Periods and Stamps

Moldavia (pre-1859)

  • Moldavian Principality: Before the unification with Wallachia in 1859, Moldavia was an independent principality. The first stamps issued by Moldavia are among the oldest in Romanian philately.
  • The “Bull’s Head” Issues (1858): The most notable and earliest stamps are the “Cap de Bour” (Bull’s Head) issues. These stamps, first issued in 1858, feature a bull’s head and the Moldavian coat of arms. They are highly prized by collectors due to their rarity and historical significance.
  • First Issue (July 15, 1858): Included denominations of 27 parale (blue), 54 parale (red), and 81 parale (yellow).
  • Second Issue (November 1858): Included the addition of an 108 parale (green).

United Principalities (1859-1866)

  • Transition Period: After the unification of Moldavia and Wallachia in 1859, stamps issued continued to use the Bull’s Head motif but began to reflect the united nature of the new principality.
  • First Stamps of Romania (1862): The first stamps specifically labeled “Romania” were issued, replacing regional stamps from Moldavia and Wallachia.

3. Kingdom of Romania (1881-1947)

  • Dobruja Region: Dobruja, part of Eastern Romania, has a unique postal history, especially after it was acquired from the Ottoman Empire in 1878.
  • Dobruja Overprints (1913): During the Second Balkan War, stamps of Romania overprinted with “Către Dobrogea” (To Dobruja) were issued, reflecting Romania’s administrative changes in the region.
  • King Carol I and King Ferdinand I Issues: Various issues featuring King Carol I and King Ferdinand I were common, reflecting Romania’s royal heritage.

Interwar and World War II Period (1918-1947)

  • Bessarabia: This region, which is now part of Moldova, was part of Romania between 1918 and 1940 and then again from 1941 to 1944. Stamps during this period include regular Romanian issues and overprints indicating administrative changes.
  • Occupation and War Overprints: Stamps during the World Wars often had overprints reflecting changes in control, particularly during the Axis occupation in World War II.

Post-War Period and Communist Era (1947-1989)

  • Post-War Reconstruction: Stamps from this period reflect Romania’s efforts to rebuild and industrialize. Issues often featured themes of agriculture, industry, and communist leaders.
  • Modern Postal Issues: After 1989, Romania’s stamps began to reflect a more diverse array of themes, including historical anniversaries, cultural events, and significant national figures.

### Collecting Tips

  • Condition: As with any collectible stamps, those in mint condition with original gum are typically more valuable. However, used stamps with clear, legible cancellations from significant periods can also be highly valuable.
  • Rarity: Look for stamps from the early Moldavian issues, particularly the “Bull’s Head” issues, as these are among the rarest and most sought-after Romanian stamps.
  • Historical Context: Understanding the historical and geopolitical context of the stamps can enhance their appeal and value. For example, stamps issued during the brief periods of administrative change, such as the overprints in Dobruja, are particularly interesting.

Notable Stamps

  • Cap de Bour (Bull’s Head) Issues (1858):
    The first stamps of Moldavia, featuring the iconic bull’s head.
  • Dobruja Overprints (1913): Reflecting the administrative changes in the Dobruja region.
  • King Carol I and King Ferdinand I Issues: Stamps featuring these monarchs are notable for their historical significance.

Resources for Collectors

  • Catalogs: Standard catalogs such as the Stanley Gibbons, Scott Catalogue, and Michel Catalogue offer detailed listings and valuations of Romanian stamps.
  • Online Auctions and Dealers: Websites like eBay, Delcampe, and specialized philatelic auction sites often have listings for Eastern Romanian stamps.
  • Philatelic Societies: Joining societies that focus on Romanian or Eastern European philately can provide access to valuable resources, expertise, and opportunities to acquire rare stamps.

Overview

Postage stamps from Eastern Romania offer a fascinating window into the region’s rich and complex history. Collecting these stamps can be a rewarding experience, providing insights into the broader historical and geopolitical shifts in the area. From the early Moldavian “Bull’s Head” issues to later Romanian stamps reflecting administrative changes, each period’s stamps tell a unique story worth exploring.