Italy Tripolitania year 1909 stamps MH lot

Tripolitania was an Italian colony located in present-day Libya from 1911 to 1934. During this period, Italy issued several stamps specifically for use in Tripolitania. Here are some notable stamp issues:

1. First Issue (1923): The first stamps for Tripolitania were overprints on existing Italian stamps, with the text “Tripolitania” printed on them. These stamps featured various designs, such as the portrait of King Victor Emmanuel III and the allegorical figure of Italia.
2. Pictorial Issue (1924-1926): In 1924, a new set of stamps was issued, featuring pictorial designs related to Tripolitania. The designs included local scenes, such as the Roman Arch of Marcus Aurelius in Tripoli, the Gurgi Mosque, and a desert oasis.
3. Colonial Institute Issue (1926): To commemorate the opening of the Colonial Institute in Rome, a set of stamps was issued featuring the institute’s building and a portrait of King Victor Emmanuel III.
4. Pictorial Issue (1927-1934): Another series of pictorial stamps was released, showcasing various aspects of life and culture in Tripolitania. The designs included local architecture, such as the Castle of Tripoli, as well as agricultural scenes and images of the Italian colonial administration.
5. Annexation Issue (1934): Following the unification of Tripolitania and Cyrenaica into the single colony of Libya, a set of stamps was issued to commemorate the annexation. These stamps featured the portrait of King Victor Emmanuel III and the coat of arms of the House of Savoy.

Tripolitania stamps are popular among collectors of Italian colonial history and African philately. As with all collector items, it is essential to be aware of potential forgeries and to obtain stamps from reputable sources.