Collection: Iraq Stamps
Iraqi postage stamps trace a postal history shaped by the Ottoman Empire, British occupation and Mandate administration, the Hashemite monarchy, independence, and the republic. Early Mesopotamian overprints, the 1923 definitive series, royal portraits, archaeology, and modern political themes provide collectors with many distinct periods.
FAQs About Iraq Postage Stamps
1. When were the first stamps of Iraq issued?
The first definitive series inscribed “Iraq” appeared in 1923. It contained twelve values with designs showing ancient history, local scenes, and contemporary subjects.
2. What are Mesopotamia overprint stamps?
During and after the First World War, British authorities overprinted Ottoman stamps for use in occupied Mesopotamia. These issues preceded the 1923 stamps of Iraq.
3. Why do early Iraqi stamps use annas and rupees?
The British-administered postal system initially used Indian currency. After independence, Iraq adopted fils and dinars, and stamps were surcharged or redesigned for the new currency.
4. What subjects appear on Iraqi stamps?
Common themes include ancient Mesopotamian civilizations, archaeological sites, landscapes, monarchs and political leaders, national development, anniversaries, and international organizations.
5. What determines the value of an Iraqi stamp?
Collectors consider the exact issue, overprint or surcharge authenticity, scarcity, gum, centering, perforations, cancellation, faults, and whether the item has genuine postal usage.