The first postage stamp issue of unified Italy marks a significant milestone in philatelic history. Introduced in 1862, under the reign of King Victor Emmanuel II, this issue symbolizes Italy’s transition into a unified kingdom. Below, we delve into the details of this inaugural issue, incorporating insights from historical records and trusted Italian sources.
Historical Context
Unification of Italy
The unification of Italy, known as the Risorgimento, culminated in the establishment of the Kingdom of Italy on 17 March 1861. King Victor Emmanuel II, formerly King of Sardinia, became the first king of a united Italy. The introduction of a national postage system was a pivotal step in consolidating the administrative functions of the new kingdom.
Postal Standardization
Prior to unification, the Italian peninsula was divided into several states, each with its own postal system. The first issue of Italy was intended to replace the disparate postage systems with a unified standard, facilitating communication across the newly formed kingdom.
The 1862 First Issue
Design and Production
- Printer: F. Matraire, Turin
- Design: The stamps feature a frame typographed in color, with the profile of King Victor Emmanuel II embossed in colorless relief. The minimalist design reflected the classical aesthetic of the period.
- Perforation: 11½ × 12
Denominations and Variants
The first issue comprised the following denominations, each printed in a distinct color:
| Denomination | Description | Date of Issue | Price Today (Mint) | Price Today (Used) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10c | Bistre | 24.2.1862 | £11,000 | £425 |
| 10c | Deep Bistre | £14,000 | £600 | |
| 10c | Bistre-Brown | £17,000 | £550 | |
| 10c | Olive-Bistre | £23,000 | £600 | |
| 10c | Yellow-Bistre | £15,000 | £550 | |
| 20c | Blue | 1.3.1862 | £15,000 | £1400 |
| 20c | Indigo | 26.00 | 49.00 | |
| 20c | Violet-Blue | 30.00 | 60.00 | |
| 40c | Rose | 10.4.1862 | £425 | £350 |
| 40c | Rose-Red | £575 | £425 | |
| 80c | Yellow | 3.10.1862 | £750 | £2250 |
| 80c | Orange-Yellow | 80.00 | £2250 |
Additional Notes
- These stamps are unique for their embossed design, a technique that added an element of security against forgery.
- The stamps from the first issue are highly prized by collectors for their rarity and historical significance.
- Variations in shade, such as “deep bistre” or “violet-blue,” were due to inconsistencies in the printing process, adding to their philatelic interest.
Forgeries and Fraudulent Perforations
Several fraudulent specimens from this issue exist. These include:
- Imperforate Specimens: Forged versions resembling the earlier Sardinian issues.
- Fraudulent Perforations: Imitations of the 1855–1861 Sardinian stamps with perforations of 9½, 10, 11, 12½, 13, and 14.
- Bronze and Green Values: Perforated specimens of the 5c green and 3l bronze were never officially issued and are considered forgeries.
Collectors must exercise caution when acquiring stamps from this issue to ensure authenticity.
Philatelic Significance
The 1862 first issue of Italy is not merely a postal artifact but a symbol of national unity and progress. Highlights include:
- Cultural Representation: The embossed profile of King Victor Emmanuel II underscores his role as a unifier.
- Rare Variants: Shades such as “olive-bistre” and “orange-yellow” are particularly valued for their scarcity.
- Historical Insight: This issue provides a glimpse into the administrative priorities of a newly unified Italy.
Conclusion
The first postage issue of Italy stands as a testament to the nation’s journey toward unity and modernization. For philatelists, these stamps offer a rare opportunity to own a piece of history, encapsulating the spirit of a pivotal era. As one of the most iconic issues in Italian philately, the 1862 stamps continue to captivate collectors worldwide.
Have you come across any rare specimens from Italy’s first issue? Share your insights and stories in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more philatelic deep dives.