Postage Stamps from Icaria

Icaria, an island in the Aegean Sea, has its own interesting postal history, although it is not as well-known as Mount Athos in terms of its philatelic significance. Here are some details about Icaria’s postage stamps:

Historical Background

Autonomous Period (1912-1913)

  • Icaria declared itself an independent state known as the Free State of Icaria on July 17, 1912, following the withdrawal of Ottoman forces during the Balkan Wars.
  • This period of independence was short-lived, lasting only a few months before the island was incorporated into Greece in November 1912.

Stamps Issuance During the Autonomous Period

  • During its brief independence, Icaria issued its own postage stamps.
  • These stamps are quite rare and are of particular interest to collectors specializing in local issues or the history of the Aegean islands.

Characteristics of Icarian Stamps

Design and Themes

  • The stamps from the autonomous period often featured overprints on existing Greek stamps, due to the limited resources available.
  • The overprints typically included text such as “ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΟΙΚΗΣΙΣ ΙΚΑΡΙΑ” (Greek Administration Icaria).

Collectibility

  • Stamps from this period are considered valuable due to their rarity and the unique historical context of Icaria’s brief independence.
  • Philatelists interested in Greek postal history or rare local issues often seek these stamps.

Modern Period

  • After Icaria became part of Greece, it no longer issued its own stamps. Instead, it uses Greek postage stamps.
  • Modern Greek stamps featuring Icaria typically focus on the island’s natural beauty, culture, and historical sites.

Collecting Icarian Stamps

  • Authenticity: Due to their rarity, authentic stamps from the autonomous period are highly sought after. It’s important to verify authenticity through reputable dealers or philatelic experts.
  • Condition: As with most collectible stamps, the condition significantly affects value. Mint condition stamps or those with clear, intact overprints are particularly prized.
  • Sources: These stamps can occasionally be found through specialized auctions, philatelic societies, and dealers who focus on Greek or regional stamps.

Overview

While Icaria’s philatelic history is brief and largely confined to a few months in 1912, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s unique historical context. Collectors interested in this niche area can find valuable and rare additions to their collections, reflecting the island’s fleeting moment of independence.