Show Filters

Postage stamps from the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (SHS), which later became the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, reflect a fascinating history from 1918 to 1941. The era’s stamps serve as historical artefacts of a time of political change, unification, and transition in the Balkans.

1. The Kingdom of SHS (1918-1929):

The Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes was formed in 1918, following the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at the end of World War I. Early SHS stamps feature overprints of existing stamps from the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Kingdom of Serbia, Montenegro, and other regions, with the new kingdom’s name. These stamps are highly sought by collectors.

  • Early Issues (1918-1921): These stamps were overprinted with the name “Država SHS” (State of SHS), in Cyrillic and Latin scripts, over pre-existing stamps. Overprints varied based on the region, and some were printed in Ljubljana, Zagreb, and Sarajevo.
  • Definitive Stamps (1921): In 1921, the first definitive stamps were issued, featuring portraits of King Peter I of Serbia, military leaders, and national emblems. Designs incorporated the Cyrillic and Latin scripts to reflect the linguistic diversity of the kingdom.

2. The Kingdom of Yugoslavia (1929-1941):

In 1929, the SHS was renamed the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, and postage stamps reflected the kingdom’s new identity. Stamps from this period often featured national symbols, leaders, and important cultural elements.

  • Stamps Featuring King Alexander I (1929-1934): After King Alexander I declared a royal dictatorship in 1929, stamps bearing his image became common. These stamps often depicted the king in military attire, highlighting the unification and centralization of the kingdom.
  • King Peter II (1935-1941): Following King Alexander I’s assassination in 1934, stamps with the portrait of the young King Peter II were issued. These stamps often had simpler designs, emphasizing the continuity of the monarchy.
  • Commemorative Issues: The Yugoslav Post Office issued stamps to commemorate national events and anniversaries, such as the death of King Alexander I and the unification of the South Slavic peoples. Some stamps also celebrated international events, including the 1936 Summer Olympics.

3. Philatelic Highlights and Special Issues:

  • Overprints and Variations: Many early SHS stamps feature interesting variations due to regional overprints and changes in currency. These overprints are of special interest to collectors.
  • Charity and Air Mail Stamps: Charity stamps, known as “taxe perçue,” and air mail stamps were also issued during this period, reflecting the modernization of the postal service.

Collecting Tips:

  • Condition: As with all philately, the condition of SHS and Kingdom of Yugoslavia stamps plays a significant role in their value. Mint condition stamps with clear cancellations are the most desirable.
  • Regional Variants: Due to the complexity of the SHS’s early postal history, collecting stamps from specific regions, such as Slovenia or Croatia, can be rewarding.

These stamps offer a glimpse into the dynamic political and cultural shifts of the early 20th century Balkans.