Albania 1913 Double-Headed Eagle Overprint

Albania · 1913 · 10 Para

This is the first postage stamp issued by Albania. It features a handstamped black double-headed eagle, the national symbol of Albania, overprinted on a contemporary Turkish stamp. The overprint signifies the new sovereignty of the nation.

Issued in 1913, this stamp marks Albania's declaration of independence from the Ottoman Empire in November 1912. The use of overprinted Turkish stamps was a provisional measure until dedicated national stamps could be designed and printed.