Austria year 1918 Military Stamps Porto set Used
The military stamps of Austria from 1918 hold historical significance and interest for philatelists. These stamps were issued during the final year of World War I and reflect the turbulent period in Austrian history. Here is an overview of these stamps:
Background
- Context: The Austro-Hungarian Empire was involved in World War I, and as the war progressed, there was a need for specialized stamps for military use.
- Purpose: These stamps were used to facilitate military postal services, ensuring that mail could be sent to and from military personnel stationed at various fronts.
Characteristics
- Design: The designs often featured military themes, including soldiers, military equipment, and symbolic elements representing the empire and its military strength.
- Denominations: These stamps came in various denominations to cover different postal rates for military mail.
- Overprints: Some of these stamps were regular postage stamps that were overprinted with specific marks or texts to denote their use for military purposes.
Types
- Field Post Stamps: These were specifically used by the field post offices set up to handle the mail of soldiers on the front lines.
- Military Franchise Stamps: These allowed soldiers to send mail free of charge or at reduced rates, often marked with “K.u.K. Feldpost” (Imperial and Royal Field Post).
Collecting Tips
- Condition: As with all stamps, condition is crucial. Mint, unhinged stamps or those on original cover (entire envelopes with postal markings) are highly valued.
- Authentication: Due to their historical nature, forgeries can be common. Ensure stamps are authenticated by a reputable expert.
- Historical Context: Understanding the historical and military context can enhance the appreciation and value of the stamps.
Notable Issues
- 1918 Overprints: Stamps from earlier issues overprinted in 1918 for military use are particularly notable.
- Design Variations: There are variations in design based on the issuing military authorities and the fronts they were intended for.
Resources
- Catalogs: Reference specialized catalogs like the Michel or Scott catalogs for detailed information and valuation.
- Philatelic Societies: Joining societies such as the Austria Philatelic Society can provide additional insights and access to resources.
- Online Forums: Engaging with online philatelic communities can help in acquiring knowledge and finding rare items.
Example
- 10 Heller Stamp: A common example is the 10 Heller stamp, originally a regular postage stamp, overprinted with “K.u.K. Feldpost” for military use.
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