Albania year 1914 Skanderbeg Issue of 1913 postage stamps

The 1914 Skanderbeg Issue from Albania is a significant and sought-after set in Albanian philately. Here are the key details:

1. Historical Context:
   • Issued shortly after Albania gained independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912
   • Skanderbeg was a 15th-century Albanian national hero who led a rebellion against the Ottoman Empire
2. Design:
   • The stamps feature a portrait of Skanderbeg in his distinctive helmet with a goat’s head crest
   • This iconic image became a symbol of Albanian nationalism
3. Denominations:
   • The set included values ranging from 1 qind to 5 franga
   • A total of 12 different denominations were issued
4. Colors:
   • Each denomination was printed in a different color
   • Examples include red, blue, green, brown, and violet
5. Printing:
   • The stamps were printed in Vienna, Austria
   • Produced using lithography
6. Perforation:
   • The stamps were perforated, likely gauge 12 or 12.5 (though you should verify this in a specialized catalog)
7. Varieties:
   • Several printing varieties exist, including color shades and minor plate flaws
   • Imperforate examples are known but are quite rare
8. Rarity and Value:
   • While not extremely rare, these stamps are highly sought after by collectors
   • Well-preserved mint examples, especially of higher denominations, can be quite valuable
   • Used examples on cover are particularly prized
9. Significance:
   • This issue is considered one of the first major stamp sets of independent Albania
   • It played a role in establishing Albanian national identity through philately

The 1914 Skanderbeg Issue remains a cornerstone of Albanian stamp collecting, representing a crucial period in the country’s history and philatelic development. As with any classic issue, authentication is important for high-value examples.