The series of stamps you have from 1943 is quite significant, as it represents a tumultuous time in Albanian history when the country was under German occupation during World War II. These stamps were issued after the capitulation of Italy, with the Germans taking over in Albania, and they include overprints and surcharges indicating the change in administration.
This particular series is recognized for featuring overprints such as "14 Shtator 1943," which refers to the date of the armistice between Italy and the Allied forces, signaling the change in control. The stamps vary in value and depict different themes such as folklore, suits and costumes, and notable figures, possibly reflecting cultural and national pride.
Each stamp has its own distinct color and value, ranging from smaller denominations like 1q (qindarkë) to higher values denoted in Franga (Fr), which was the currency at the time. Some stamps also have variations in the overprints and surcharges, making certain editions more unique, such as those with inverted overprints or misprinted dates.
Collectors might be particularly interested in the details of these stamps, such as their perforation, size, and printing method. The printing technique used was photogravure, which is known for its ability to produce rich and detailed images. The exact sizes and colors, along with the face values, are cataloged in stamp collecting databases and can help in identifying each stamp's place in the series.
These stamps are not just postal artifacts; they are historical documents that offer insights into Albania's past and the shifts in power during World War II. For anyone interested in philately or history, they represent a window into how national identity and historical events are reflected in everyday items like postage stamps