A popular 1906 Olympic Games set from Greece

Oct 16, 2024, 8 AM

Stamp Market Tips by Henry Gitner and Rick Miller

The Olympic Games are one of the most popular areas of topical stamp collecting. The ancient Olympic Games were held in Olympia, Greece, from the eighth century B.C. to the fourth century B.C. The modern Olympics began with the Summer Olympic Games held in Athens, Greece, in 1896. The first Winter Olympic Games were held in Chamonix, France, in 1924. The modern Olympic Games are normally held every four years, with the Summer and Winter Olympics being held alternatively two years apart.

In 1906, the intercalated Olympic Games were held in Athens, Greece, between the third and fourth Olympiads to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Summer Games held in 1896.

The initial plan was to hold the intercalated Olympic Games every four years in Athens, Greece, in the years between the Summer Olympics. However, the 1906 Olympic Games were the only ones ever held.

In March 1906, the Kingdom of Greece issued a set of 14 stamps (Scott 184-197) commemorating the 1906 intercalated Olympic Games. The stamp designs feature scenes from Greek mythology as well as scenes of athletes competing in the ancient Olympic Games.

In addition to being popular with collectors of Greece, this set is one that belongs in every Olympic Games topical collection. It is also popular with Greek and Roman mythology topical collectors.

The Scott Classic Specialized Catalogue of Stamps and Covers 1840-1940 values the set in very fine grade at $516.90 in unused, hinged condition and $325.40 in used condition. Centering was often a problem on these early Greek issues.

For those who require very fine grade, expect to pay up to 80 percent of catalog value for a set. For those who are happy with stamps in fine-very fine grade, a set in unused, hinged condition is a good buy at around $300.

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