The postal history of Greece is a fascinating journey that mirrors the nation’s evolution from the Ottoman Empire to an independent state. In the early 19th century, before Greece gained autonomy in 1830, postal services were primarily under Ottoman control. The first notable postal development occurred in 1828 when a provisional postal service was established during the Greek War of Independence. This marked a significant step towards national identity.
Following Greece’s independence, the need for a formal postal system emerged. In 1861, the first Greek postage stamps were issued, featuring the profile of Hermes. Hermes was the ancient Greek god of trade, wealth, luck, fertility, animal husbandry, sleep, language, thieves, and travel. One of the cleverest and most mischievous of the 12 Olympian gods, Hermes was their herald and messenger. The so called “Large Hermes Heads” were isued in a large variety for the next 25 years. Todays stamp is the 10 Lepta from the first issue in 1861. CV is 900 €.