Italian Ethiopia Stamp Appraisal

Ethiopia Italian Occupation 25 Centesimi Postage Stamp

This item is a postage stamp, likely from the period of Italian occupation of Ethiopia. The stamp features a central portrait of a bald, older man with a mustache, depicted in military uniform with medals and insignia. The predominant colors are dark green/teal for the main design elements and a lighter, off-white or cream for the background of the image and the perforated borders. The stamp is rectangular in shape with serrated, perforated edges, indicating it was part of a sheet. Key inscriptions on the stamp include 'ETIOPIA' at the top, along with its transliteration in Amharic script (Ethiopian language) and Arabic script, 'بلاد الحبشة'. To the left of the portrait, '9 MAGGIO 1936' is visible, marking a specific date. To the right, 'A. XIV E.F.' is inscribed, which likely refers to the 14th year of the Fascist Era (Anno Fascista), aligning with the 1936 date. The denomination '25 CENT' is prominently displayed at the bottom, with 'POSTE COLONIALI ITALIANE' written below it, clearly identifying its origin and use. The numeral '25' is also large on the bottom right. The overall condition appears to be relatively good, with no obvious major tears or creases, although some slight discoloration or paper aging may be present. The printing quality indicates a well-executed engraving or lithographic process, characteristic of government-issued postage stamps from that era. The perforation seems intact. This stamp represents a specific historical period and colonial administration, making it of interest to philatelists and historians.