Alexandretta used Syria stamps from 1930 until 1938, overprinted with the French legend ‘Sandjak d’Alexandrette’ (a sandjak is an administrative division). Stamps were from the time of the French Mandate in Syria, and the stamps used were the French-inscribed “SYRIE” stamps then in use. Overprints on Alexandretta stamps are in black or red.
In addition to the Syrian stamps overprinted for Alexandretta from 1930-8, there were also Syrian postage due stamps and air post stamps overprinted for use in Alexandretta. Also in 1938, stamps overprinted ’10-11-1938′, marking the death (on November 10) of Turkish leader Kemal Atatürk, were used.
Alexandretta was renamed and given to the Turks, and is today the city of İskenderun in northern Turkey. Overprinted stamps of Alexandretta are not terribly numerous in the marketplace, but there are usually a few nice examples for sale. Check the newest listings here often.
