Serbian Philately Appraisal

Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (Jugoslavia) 1 Dinar Stamp of King Alexander I

This item is a postage stamp from the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, specifically known later as Jugoslavia (Yugoslavia). The stamp depicts a portrait of King Alexander I, facing left, rendered in a warm, sepia-toned hue, possibly indicating an initial brown or reddish-brown color scheme. The overall background of the stamp appears to be a reddish-brown color, with intricate patterns, possibly geometric or floral, filling the spandrels around the circular portrait and covering the borders. The stamp is rectangular in shape and has perforated edges, typical of postage stamps. The denomination '1 D' is clearly visible in the bottom left and right corners, indicating '1 Dinar'. Inscriptions in Cyrillic script are present at the top, which, based on the context of 'Jugoslavia Stamp', are likely 'КРАЉЕВИНА СРБА, ХРВАТА И СЛОВЕНАЦА' (Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes). A smaller inscription at the very bottom, though partially obscured, appears to include 'AMERICAN BANK NOTE CO.', suggesting the printing company responsible for its production. The visible condition issues concern a heavy, circular postmark in black ink, significantly obscuring parts of the portrait and inscriptions. This cancellation mark indicates that the stamp has been used. The date 'VII.23' and other illegible characters are visible within the postmark, suggesting a specific date of cancellation. The stamp exhibits some wear consistent with its age and use, but no overt tears or major discoloration beyond the original design and postmark are immediately apparent. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, typical for state-issued postage stamps of the era, showcasing fine line engraving for the portrait and a detailed background. Given the historical context, this stamp likely dates to the period of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, which existed from 1918 to 1929 before officially being renamed the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, placing its estimated age in the early 20th century.