January 2025

National Defence

1926 National Defence Issue: A Tribute to Italian Monuments

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The First National Defence Issue, released on October 26, 1926, commemorates Italy’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. It also served as a means to support national defence programs, with proceeds from stamp sales partially redirected to this cause. Philatelic Details Catalogue Numbers: SG 204–207 Designs: 40c+20c: Castel Sant’Angelo 60c+30c: Roman Aqueduct 1.25L+50c: Villa Adriana (Hadrian’s […]

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Airmail

1926 Airmail Stamps of Italy

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The 1926 airmail stamp set marked Italy’s pioneering efforts to integrate aviation into its postal system. Issued on March 15, 1926, these stamps reflect Italy’s technological progress and its nationalistic pride during the early 20th century. Philatelic Details Catalogue Numbers: SG 197–203 Design: Portrait of King Victor Emmanuel III Engraver: Not specified Printer: Typographical printing,

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A Comprehensive Guide to the Stamps of the Neapolitan Provinces (1861)

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The Neapolitan Provinces issued stamps in 1861 during their transition into the Kingdom of Sardinia. These stamps, while visually similar to contemporary Sardinian issues, were denominated in Neapolitan currency (Tornesi, Grano, and Ducato) instead of the unified Italian currency. This guide details the significant stamps of the Neapolitan Provinces, as catalogued, to provide collectors with

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Stamps from the second issue of Naples, featuring the Arms under the Bourbon Dynasty and the Cross of Savoy

1860 The Second & Third Issues of Naples – A Comprehensive Guide

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The second issue of Naples, released during the significant historical period of King Francis II’s reign and the Garibaldi régime, represents a fascinating chapter in Italian philately. These stamps were issued between November and December 1860, reflecting the political transitions as the Kingdom of Naples joined the Kingdom of Sardinia, ultimately leading to the unification

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Naples 1858 first issue stamps featuring the Arms of the Two Sicilies and rose and lake color variations

1858 – The First Issue of Naples (Kingdom of the Two Sicilies) – A Comprehensive Guide

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The first postage stamps of Naples, issued on January 1, 1858, are among the most iconic in Italian philately. Representing the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, these stamps were intricately designed and reflect the history of a unified Naples and Sicily under King Ferdinand II. Known for their artistic and historical significance, these imperforate stamps

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Louis Napoléon stamps featuring the portrait of the French president and reprinted issues from 1862

The Louis Napoléon, President Stamps of France (1852-1862)

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The Louis Napoléon, President stamps of France, first issued in 1852, represent an important transition in French philately, marking a shift from allegorical figures to portraiture. These stamps feature the profile of Louis Napoléon Bonaparte, later Emperor Napoléon III, with the engraver’s initial “B” (J.J. Barre) prominently displayed below the bust. This iconic series serves

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The Definitive Guide to the Ceres Stamps of France (1849-1862)

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The Ceres stamps of France, first issued in 1849, represent the dawn of French philately. These stamps, engraved by J.J. Barre, feature the Roman goddess Ceres, symbolizing agriculture and prosperity. Their timeless design and historical significance make them a cornerstone of any French philatelic collection. This guide provides a comprehensive reference to the Ceres issues,

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France 2006 stamp sheet featuring young domestic animals, including a puppy, kitten, foal, and lamb

Celebrating Young Domestic Animals – France’s 2006 Stamp Sheet

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On April 22, 2006, La Poste issued a heartwarming stamp sheet featuring young domestic animals. Designed as a charming tribute to the bond between children and animals, this issue is a delightful addition to any collection celebrating nature and rural life. Issue Details Catalogue Reference: Stanley Gibbons MS4176 Issue Date: April 22, 2006 Denominations: 53c

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