Stamps of the Kingdom of Italy

by Tony Clayton

BLP Stamps

Postage Due Stamps <<-- : -->> Publicity Stamps

Main Index

BLP Stamps were first issued in 1921. The letters stand for Busta Lettera Postale, and the stamps were used by War Casualty Charities at a discounted rate. They were used on special envelopes. Further details will be published on this site at a later date.

The overprint has been extensively forged - beware of purchasing expensive items without a certificate.

First Issue, 1921

The first overprint is narrower and taller than the second. The initial printings are of type Zecchinato, which appears to have a level base to the L. Later ones have a different style known as Salomone, with a sloping base to the L. The latter is also known in a 'deteriorated' state.

Two examples of the 25c with Type 1 overprint Both are thought to be Zecchinato style. Sassone 3

Two examples of the 40c with Type 1 overprint That on the left is Zecchinato style in blue, while that on the right is deteriorated Salomone style in bright dark blue. Sassone 4

BLP Envelope with 40c brown with type 1 violet overprint Sassone 4B

Second Issue, 1922, Lithographic overprint

The typographic and lithographic versions of the 10c can be distinguished by the impression being visible on the back for the former. The other denominations differ in the colour of the overprint.

10c red and 25c blue BLP stamps. Sassone 5 and 8

60c BLP stamp; the postmark appears to be dated prior to the issue date of 1922 Sassone 11 Courtesy of the Italy and Colonies Study Circle

1 lire BLP stamp; the overprint looks forged Sassone 12

Second Issue, 1922, Typographic overprint

20c and 30c BLP stamps. Sassone 15 and 17

15c with red BLP. Sassone 14C

85c with black BLP. Sassone 18

BLP Envelope with the above two stamps

Unissued Commemoratives

25c Victory stamp overprinted BLP. Sassone 25 Courtesy of the Italy and Colonies Study Circle

Postage Due Stamps <<-- : -->> Publicity Stamps
Main Italian Stamp Index
Kingdom of Italy Index