balkanstamp

2011-09-23T03:56:00.001-07:00

2011 year, so promising that I was really in good mood and hope that finally, something in Montenegro post will change. But, I was wrong!

It start with simple no-response to my e-mail from Montenegro Post, and come till half year didn't pass. Somewhere in begging July, I received one mail where is talking about my order which will be prepared upon payment......!

O.K. I pay (significant balance) and all was in quiet next full months. After next months when I start to send very nervous mails regarding my payment and time spend till delivery occur - I was surprised with info that my shipment was delivered by EMS service which charge me next 35.00 euro for shipment from Montenegro to Israel!

That was great! Normally, I search for EMS web, and find that I have two notice of shipment, and that I have just week to pick-up shipment, cost of storage was somewhere 3.00 $ per day, cost for custom clearance was again some 25.00 $ and that all can be done by Forwarding Agency that will charge me next 45.00 $ before tax.

That was more than I can swallow - I personally have job to control incoming containers to our warehouse company, and it is all Bonded warehouse - that well I know what is permitted and what not - than come EMS with some kind of "pushing" and "pressing" to use Forwarding Agency for service - no way!

In the end - I have no choice, just to made all alone, and pay some good money for one un professional service from both - Post of Montenegro and EMS service!

Shipment in the end come to me opened, with damaged stamp by paperclip, razor was used to open envelope, stamp pressed, folded - one very bad experience.

Because all that - try to avoid EMS service if You can!

Lets start with:

1-2011, Personalities - Artist:

This issue come out on market on Jan 27, 2011 - celebrating Jovan Ivanisevic and Vojo Stanic, hardly that You know them - even I don't know about who is talking, but just to mention that one is composer and second is sculptors.

I don't see nothing to say good about design, and that is main reason because author still use "heavy color" in design, with very little care about "vision" of people that will lok on stamp!

Face value go 0.70 e per set - be prepared to pay 100% up from dealer.

2-2011 Painter/Personalities: Tripo Kokolja:

Second issue with same topic, and same unknown person for us! And again poor design missing "soul" - what to say is just minimal, issued on Feb 22, 2011 - almost impossible to recognize person on stamp! But it will cost You 0.60 e per issue - for sure!

3-2011 - Personalities next one in row: Vuk Vrcevic:

To celebrate persons I understand, but to celebrate one collector of lyrical folk poems is for me not so - but, every country have own mentality and priority. Face value is just 0.30 euro, and design "like usually"! Issued on Feb 26, 2011.

4-2011 - "Fauna":

Let say that set importance are high, and that it is right to spend money to help with nature protection in Montenegro - but why they can not made some better idea when design is in question!!!

Here we have one set of 4 stamp, in total 1.90 euro face value, not high for this topic at all.

This set is issued on March 17, 2011 with picture of newt, shell, Pelican and Cormorant - I can not give them high star quality - it is far away from it.

5-2011 "EUROPE":

You probably know that this year EUROPE topic was "Forest", and some countries made very "clever" design regarding forest and problem of de forestation - Montenegro is not different from it, and nice effort is made - but - failed!

What this picture mean? EU Reich map designed like one leaf damaged by some insect bite? Or EU letters in black frame (like for "late" president) - what exactly designer wanted to tell us?

On mini sheet it is even worsened by color - and I have an feeling that it is somewhere in very dark distance - God, this is something special!

For this set of two stamp prepare 3.60 euro on market and next 3.60 e for m-s, and if You will need all printing sheet it will cost You more than 32.00 euro. Stamp come out on April 21, 2011.

6-2011 "Tourism":

They made it every year - with nice panoramic view of Montenegro hill around country, and they made it again with "dark sky over Montenegro nature"! One set that will take lot of money from You!

This nice set have 4 stamp, but in three different format - it can be in booklet format, simple set or in printing sheet - all three option will take from You, on market, around 100.00 euro in cash!

If You don't like to spend lot of money, but still wanted three different option of same set - try to obtain set from printing sheet with salvage (that are in four different color) plus booklet (that have white salvage) - and be prepared to pay extra if You want also booklet cover (that is over sized, and don't have nothing common with tourism).

Issue come out on May 12, 2011 that is perfect time for Tourist and propaganda time for advertise it.

7-2011 "Environmental Protection":

Even that in Serbian is named Nature Protection (Zastita Prirode), intention is to inform us about problem that we have with our surrounding and nature.

Issue come out on May 21, 2011 with two stamp in set, nice design - yes, finally I can say one nice design, of our "smile globe" and EKG saying that we are still alive!

Price are also affordable, some 1.40 euro on market - think it is worth to have it!

8-2011 "Joint issue with Russia":

In the end, one more or less acceptable issue and design! On stamp we see one Karan cathedral in St. Peterburg and second stamp is with former Russian Embassy Building in Cetinje (?).

To be fair - I really like this design and architecture alone from this period, it is very-very advanced and "classic" at the same time. Issue come out on May 26, 2011 - two stamp in set, one nice edition of printing sheet - and cost also nice - 2.40 euro, on market, for just one set - and if You want full printing sheet - prepare 8.00 euro.

9-2011 "Games of Small EU Reich States":

You know, I remember many sport show around, Winter Game, Summer Olympic, Mediterrean Game, Adriatic game, ParaLympic Game end probably some Asian, African, Latine Olympic games - but, I never hear for SMALL EUROPEANS STATES sport organization or sport event! In the end, it is fine if EU Reich made some new evening, but why is Montenegro there? If my memory is doing well, Montenegro still is on BALKAN soil, and question is if EU Reich will exist enough long when Montenegro will have chance to join EU Reich.

Even that design is nice for any sport evening, this is two stamp in set, one with tennis ball and second with volleyball, are nice - topic /theme is difficult, but design is nice - worth to obtain in general sport topic in any way - and You will pay just minimum, 2.40 euro per set on Belgrade market.

10-2011 "Belveder Events":

One stamp set, FDC so poorly designed, so ugly color choice (red/bordo - blood color), hardly that You will recognized about what is here talking! Thanks to prices, minimal of 0.60 euro on market - but to be fair - it is not worth!

I like explanation on back of FDC - that it was one demonstration organized by left oriented Montenegro federalists, in Kingdom of Yugoslavia! Even then, social injustice and poorly managed state was problem! Funny that all this people, made so great sacrifice and just for one - that after 70plus years - people of Montenegro come to the same situation!!!! Issue come out on Jun 25, 2011.

11-2011 "Navigation":

Serbian "Pomorstvo" is translated to Navigation - little bit strange for me, if I think that navigation is something else. probably I'm wrong! No matter - here we go with one

very-very important evening and tragedy, with very, really very important time for people of Montenegro, Serbia and Yugoslavia!!!! And with SO BAD AMATEUR DESIGN that made me out of my mind! what is that BLACK "kish-kush" on this stamp? You are supposed to celebrate one tragedy, with ship named BRINDISI, in one heroic manner, and not with one-way hand move with paint brush! This ship (Brindisi), built in 1895 year, Livorno, Italy. Ship have very bad luck, and in the end of life, it sink together with 395 heroes soldiers who was near Albania coast. Probably (some theory) it was not accident, but sadly - people go down in one great tragedy! In this issue, again politic have "fingers" - because all story about this happening is talking about Montenegrian heroes, Montenegrian soldiers - there on ship, they was Yugoslavian if I don't made mistake - and they there NEVER separated from Serbian, Croatian and all other people that lived under Yugoslavia.

I'm very sorry, to see one nice topic (ships), one important history (war tragedy), designed in this poor way. Issue come out on July 7, 2011, single stamp, with minimal face value of 0.40 euro, probably You can find it on exchange base.

2011-01-28T14:14:00.000-08:00

Finally - I received rest from 2010 year. What to say about service from Montenegro Post is nothing good, too late with delivery, money in advance, damaged stamp delivered, printing sheet without border (border is removed) - and explanation is "delivered what was available"! God, which kind of responsibility!

But, it is Balkan! I like it - even that all is in bad shape, people there live "easy" life. Yes - Post of Montenegro have some "strange" system - what to do?!

Here we go with:

13-2010 "Personalities" (Duke & Printer):

Issued on Nov. 16, 2010, single stamp. face value of 0.50 euro, design is simple as can be, nothing special and not something that "catch" Your eye!

14-2010 "Stamp Day":

Issued on Nov. 2, 2010, also one single stamp, face value 0.30 euro, again some amateur design, with too much color - but message are something in "style" to tell us that all races on this planet use mail and stamp?

15-2010 "Joy of Europe":

continue with this topic, every year it come out, even that i really don't know what for? The "good time" of Europe are gone, people are without any kind of "joy" - and still we print this issue - probably intention is just to take money, and rise income - nothing more than that. Even design is far from good, but if we take in mind that it is done by children, it will be accepted.

16-2010 "Legacy from Past":

set of four stamp, Duklja (Archeology - Coin), Mosque, I. Mazuranic (writer), and Miroslav's Holly Writing - face value not cheap - 2.40 euro, for Montenegro standard is expensive - and again this poor design! Except "Coin" and Holly writing - which are relatively good design, other two are less than minimum. Probably just collectors of "Mosque on Stamp" will need it in collection.

17-2010 "nature Protection - environment":

Again and again they made so ugly design! This important topic need to be more "eye catching" - more with clear message, more "feeling" in design, but what we received is just "children home work" - nothing to say good.

Hope that 2011 will bring us more "clever" issues and more professional design - just hope?

2010-10-23T02:53:00.000-07:00

It was long time from my last post that I didn't write - not my fault, but probably, I'm not so big client of Montenegro Post, and receive new issue just once per year - what to do, even that last shipment cost me not so small amount.

Let's start to see what we have in:

3-2010 - "Personalities", Danilo Kis (1935-1989):

Writer, born in Subotica (Serbia, Voivodina), some will include this issue to Judaica topic, because father of person was Jew (deported to Auschwitz), but this can be problematic, because mother of Danilo was Montenegrian. However - he was one of best in his profession and deserve to be on stamp. Issue have date of Feb 22, 2010, with face value of 0.50 e, not small amount to spend for one stamp.

4-2010 "Flora":

Issued on March 18, 2010 - set of four stamp, face value of 2.35 e, under name "Flora - Melliferous Plant" - probably Post of Montenegro think that they will made one "big deal" to issue set with high face value, in printing sheet of 5+gutter, FDC and CM - it will be too much for simple collectors to pay - even that

design is not bad, but hardly to say that it is attractive. For instance - gutter show us flower and seed of each plant - but it is in color that actually "hide" fine detaile of so beautiful plant and drawing. sadly - this design and color use are applied to all four stamp. Each stamp present plant as follow: 0.25 e (Slvia Officialis L.), 0.50 e (Satureja Subspicata Bartl.ex Vis), 0.60 e (Tilia Tomentosa Moench), and 1.00 e (Epilobium Angustifolium L.).

5-2010 "Europa", Children's Literature:

Issued on April 22, 2010. Set of 2 stamp, one mini sheet (2 stamp also), face value for full set and m/s is 3.00 e. Now because it is printed in sheet of 8 stamp with gutter on middle, collector will need to prepare nice amount of money to have one issue that don't deserve this money. Design is usually "face" of topic, and topic is children's book - according it - we have also children's drawing on stamp design. because my profession and because people that I know from Montenegro, I can say - that person who approved this design, probably receive one order to choice just this design - Montenegro have much-much better artist and better illustration to choice!

6-2010 :Religion", St. Vasilije of Ostrog:

Issued on May 12, 2010 - single stamp, face value 0.50 e. Important issue for history of one country. Celebrating 400 yr of birth Saint - not every country in this world have this occassion You will agree! Design is with some kind of hidden massage - where we have all space of FDC and CM printed in "blood red" and in right up corner - one "sun" on it is attached stamp of Saint - in the case that I will be observant - I will keep it in my room all the time! Stamp design alone is lets say "good".

7-2010 World Cup - South Africa:

Issued on Jun 11, 2010 - one single stamp, face value of 1.50 e, my comment - Funny issue design, simple - even very simple, I don't see reason why to made one and half euro face value - 0.25 e is more than deserve - but probably, because FIFA want more money, Montenegro Post didn't have other option to collect revenue and pay for usage of FIFA event logo.

8-2010 "Tourism":

It continue like every year, promotion of tourism in this small country, and like usually, we have set of 4 stamp, face value 2.35 e. Really one expensive set - not because 4 stamp only, but because it is printed in sheet of 5 with gutter in, and also in booklet format that is different from main sheet format - if You will like to have it in complete like will be mentioned in Michel catalog - You will need to have sheet of 5 set, and booklet pane and set alone included in collection - that will take You like 7 full set - if face value for set is 2.35 e x 7 = 16.45 e GREAT expense! Worth to have it? I think - hmmmmmmmmm - no!

9-2010 "Navigation - Ship":

Issued Jul 8, 2010. Thanks God, one nice issue that are made this year - probably will be winner for best stamp of the year in Montenegro. Also very affordable face value of 0.25 e - really nice from Montenegro Post! Issue are to celebrate "First Montenegrin long-cruise steamship under Montenegro flag". Ship named Jaroslav, arrived to Montenegro 1890 like an gift of the Russian Czar, but ship is built in America, delivered to Russia and from there to Montenegro - King/Prince of Montenegro used it like yacht. It was good time for rich - isn't?

10-2010 "Dynasty":

Don't ask me why they issued this stamp, probably to keep proud of nation on alert - but 650 year of one Dynasty is not something that can be put aside, many-many country on this planet don't have even 10% of this year in history - You will agree. Minimum face value of 0.25 e - that can be also included to Architecture topic because there is one castle, and also Archeology topic because on FDC is ruins of this castle. Issued on Jul 15, 2010 - single stamp in set.

11-2010 "Power Plant":

Issued on July 19, 2010 - to celebrate first power plant in Montenegro (from 1910), again - it is built (power plant) to serve Prince residence and street that surround this residence! I was thinking that it serve some hospital - but no - near same like today - isn't? Again minimal face value of 0.25 e - but designed like if someone want to hide it from person that will look at stamp - at first glance - You will not recognized about what is talking here! yellow, brown and black in use - on small paper will usually give You confused picture - long road to learn - sorry, not for my collection!

12-2010 "Kingdom revival":

If You don't know history and today situation in Montenegro, You will think that after 100 yr - there King come back! No - it is just revival of kingdom, that was long time ago in Montenegro - I will say - probably issue of stamp for this occasion is correct - just to show that Balkan have also King/s and Princes - nice - isn't? They even give it importance by face value, it is not minimum, but double - 0.50 e for single stamp - that i recommend to include in collection, because it is nice topic and keep history alive! Issued on August 28, 2010, stamp and FDC in option.

1-EMS label:

I must show it for reason that Montenegro Post start to use this service - and because it drive me crazy, but also give me satisfaction.

satisfaction is because it go relatively fast, and straight to Your door - not waiting for public company service to made job. But it also have it prices of too much for too little! My shipment arrived to me in the morning - it have an 0.459 kg weight, and cost me postage of 27.15 euros!!!! Now You know, why any dealer that pay for shipment, will not sell You new issue less than double of face value? I take my lens to see what is written on "EE" label - and discovered that postage pay is zero!!!!!!! God, I pay more than 27.00 e and You stick one label without face value like proof that I actually pay for it?! I again took "EMS Label" and read:

date received to post: 28 Sept. 2010

date delivered to me: 22 Oct. 2010

Total charges: 0.00

God! Something is wrong here! EMS is introduced instead of "EXPRESS" service worldwide - isn't? Someone discovered that this way, ordinary citizen will pay more for service that almost existed, but - because revenue need to be rise - we say to citizen - no EXPRESS any more - You want it to be delivered as soon as possible - pay it double prices and deliver by EMS. What I received? One months delivery time for 27.00 euros! Who is here of to explain me - why it is so great charge, why one months delivery time and why no proof that I pay for it (thanks God, I keep my Invoice).

Till next - just hope to better future. And by way - no news from Serbian Post about new issue and new issue delivery - they are still in blackout regarding "Jugomarka" distributor, they still don't have any new contractor to print and distribute new issue stamp, they still don't know who is responsible for this to blame - ANARCHY (but in Serbia is Democracy in power).

Sometime Democracy/Capitalism mean also CHAOS and ANARCHY!

2010-05-28T10:31:00.000-07:00

50 years First Issue of EUROPA issue:

General warning about this issue to all collectors.

This issue come out to the public on 3. Jan. 2006, Scott catalog I don't have, but Michel have it with number 108-111 I (for set) and Block 2A, B, and Block 3 (that are different by design, from main set). Michel price it at 11.00 euro for simple set, and 12.00 euro for strip set, strip+tab will have price of 15.0 euro. Block go for 2A perforated 20.00 euro, without perforation -,-.

Here come problem!

First, every perforated block (of 4 stamp, face valued 5.50 euro) - have an number on salvage, right side on middle, without perforation are without this serial number. According Michel, block are printed in 505 000 quantity (I have one sample with 504 544 number), but block without perforation don't have any information about quantity printed.

Recently, I participated in one public auction, where I saw that one of this block are offered for sale but with great name - shifted perforation - God, I jumped to obtain it and pay almost 30.00 euro to win it! Yes - I have it in my possession in the end, but what surprise! When I examined it, and not examination like professional certification, but simple exam, it come one bad feeling - it is absolutely fake perforation!

I don't need to be expert about Montenegro issue, and today we have just great accessories on PC and web, that we even don't need to ask expert about opinion, I simply see that it is manipulation, fake for naive intention. This block is not worth so much at all, it is just 20.00 euro catalog, on market You will find it even on exchange basis - what was need to made this effort and to made "shifted perforation" case on it? Money? Noooooo!

How I can say that it is fake/manipulated perforation? See, I use simple Picasa (from Google) system on my PC - zoomed this block, and what I see? I see, horizontal, middle perforation are "deformed", almost like egg by profile, because I'm (by way) printing plant technician, I know, that perforation, if used once, can not have this "profile" - it must be round, and not ellipse, that mean - someone didn't have proper perf machine in use, that say - it is done or in private workshop, or in "hurry" inside printing plant. Second come to my attention, that on around hole are visible color traces, something like oil spill or oil traces, but when I used Picasa zoom I see that it is actually color marking for reason to know where exactly to apply perf machine! God - this guy who made it - he was even amateur in this job!

In the end I contacted person in Post of Montenegro, who is responsible for contact with collectors, and asked him about his opinion, what I received like answer, just give "stamp of approval" for my theory that it is fake! Here is (in free translation) what I hear:

This issue are problematic from beginning of life. First and main mistake was made in choosing printing plant and contractor for this job to print stamp, distribute and sell it. We give contract to local printing plant in Sarajevo, that didn't keep with timing, didn't keep contract condition, and most problematic, didn't have any security inside printing plant! That resulted in great missuses of finished product, of printing vasts, of quantity. People from there simply walk out with whole printing sheet in hand!

Most problematic are, that whole quantity are sold to one person (I didn't have info to whom), and now, no one know nothing sure about this set.

Because I come from Yugoslavia, and know mentality of this peoples living there, hardly that it come like result of uneducated people, but mostly (I think), it is because of some kind of dispute between printing plant and Post of Montenegro. Probably Post didn't pay for work done, and printing plant decided to sell all quantity to someone who have money for it, in this case - no security can stop worker to take some "sample" home, like payment, souvenir or just to make little money.

I wish to collectors be informed about this "rarity" - because topic are attractive to collectors of EUROPA issue, and because it is one nice issue, but no one need to care and spend extra money for variety or rarity that actually don't have any legality or extra value!

2010-03-19T12:37:00.000-07:00

2010 start with some nice and expensive items - hope that it will be just from begining of year - but if it will continue like this - prepare budget!

1-2010 "Art":

I don't know how to describe it - but, they say - it is art! With one stamp I agree - frescoes, it is "old" art - and collected by many collectors around world, but second stamp with one "sci-fi" painting - it is disputable, I personally like it anyway! Issued on Jan 28, 2010 - two stamp in set, face value GREAT - 1.00 euro, They rise postage fares? Not? O.K. - let's say that FDC deserve respect, and will be quickly sold out - but second issue "sci-fi" will be available for long time to come!

2-2010 "Vancouver Winter Olympic":

Here I can say that design saved whole issue! Why? - because Olympic logo are so ugly, that someone must think very well how to design stamp, to improve overall picture - and artist really made it!!!!!! Issued on Feb 12, 2010 - two stamp face value - oj-vaj-voj - 2.50 euro! Try to buy it from retailer dealer for face value, I want to see if someone will made it! Prepare minimum 30-40% up-to-face value, and when You will ask prices for sheet of 8+1 tab - take breath, for sure it will cost You around 30.00 euro minimum, if You will be lucky to find who will sell it to You.

2010-03-19T11:32:00.000-07:00

End of 2009 - here it come after 3 months of prepaid order - with 18 page of paperwork form attached to parcel delivered to me! It is great-great wasting of paper, work hour - probably it happen because they still don't have modernized system? And, I'm not sure that it is all for 2009 year, because I still don't know if some postal tax or additional issue existed, but which are not in central post administration (like Red Cross issue). From "Programme" I see that in 2009 - was planned also issue for "European champ in Chess" - but I don't see it on official web, or delivered to me.

Let's start with description:

10-2009 "Nature Protection":

Issued on June 10, 2009 - like every year - commemorating Black Lake and Plavsko Lake - which are really treasure for Montenegro tourism. Two stamp, affordable face value of 0.75 euro, but again - printed in sheetlet of 8 stamp and one gutter/tab on middle, which will greatly rise expenses if You want to include it in Your collection.

11-2009 "Navigation":

come to us on July 10, 2009, with one single stamp value of 0.60 euro - to be fair - is not cheap for one stamp. Occasion is Vicko Bujovic (21/I/1660-9/V/1709) - a captain from city Perast. Not just he was owner of several ship, and traded around Adriatic sea - till to Venice, but he also have role like "sea policeman" and also - participated in defending Turkish Empire! stamp alone will not made some impression on collectors - but because it have also ship on it - that will give push to trade. Sheet of 8+1 is again used - and sheetlet have an much better impression.

12-2009 "Stamp Day":

No - I really don't like it! Some abstract design, not attractive at all - but it is not our power to decide about design. Issued on Oct 2, 2009 - one stamp, face value 0.25 euro, cheap? I don't think so for this stamp design.

13-2009 "Joy of Europe":

Usually one issue per year, with children drawings - nothing new, two face value total 0.90 euro per this set - if someone have collection of "Children Drawings" - it can be purchased - probably also for "Music" topic - and it is all for this issue, issued Nov 20, 2009.

14-2009 "Valtazar Bogisic":

Jurist and professor, in field of "Slavic Law History" - have great role in law studies. This is for occasion of 175 yr of his birth. Standard one stamp, single valued at face value of 0.50 euro, that probably math this topic. Issued on Dec 7, 2009. What made me worry is - printing sheet of 20! Why?

15-2009 "700 year of document":

Issued on Dec 20, 2009 - and to celebrate 700 yr of oldest preserved document in Montenegro - I think that Post of Montenegro need to give more "proud" to this stamp, and not just to print it in offset process - this design and topic, need to be printed in gravure - in simple black/white color - it will give it "charm" and "soul" - now it is just simple "invisible text" stamp. Face value is simple and minimum - just 0.25 euro - but printing sheet is 20 stamp - don't forget!

2009-08-13T08:27:00.000-07:00

4-2009: Art in Montenegro #2, issued April 8, 2009

Let say one simple and clear! Why they still don't care about artistic improvement, more quality and more imagination in producing stamp with topic "ART"?

This three value set, that celebrated 125 year of Balkan Empress Performance, 75 year of birth V. Nikolic and 525 year Crnojevic Monastery.

All is important for Montenegro itself, even that Monastery can not be classified like "ART" but more to "Religion" or Architecture, or probably History - because Icons (that are not shown on stamp itself) that existed inside monastery - hardly it can go to "Art" topic!

This three stamp, ( really like this one with portrait of V. Nikolic, that illustrated artist in dare situation, probably bank personal problem, possible economic hard time in theatre where he worked?) have an face value of 1.50 euro, will be easy obtained from any dealer by face value, probably You will pay more for tab version of set, and sheetlet of 9 stamp will ask You for premium.

5-2009: Fauna-Fish, issued April 16, 2009

What to say about? Nothing! Instead to show us from more close view this 4 fish, we have one artistic message - with some "line" included. Probably it is "genetic" line, or "road map" - or "road to pan"??? Funny, but I saw many better made, more precise made issue with this topic.

Set alone have just 1.75 euro face value, no - this time from dealer You will not received it by face value, but with 20% more probably yes. Fish on stamp is: Bleak, Black umber, Ukljeva and Krap (Alburnus Scoranza, Heckel & Kner 1858, Cyprinus Carpio, Linneaus 1758).

Sheetlet of 5 set and one tab will cost You more than face value, but it is unavoidable, because this topic is frequent.

6-2009: EUROPA 2009 issue, "Astronomy", issued April 16, 2009

You know, I saw many "wrong" design in my life - but this one can be "classic" of all! Probably they intended to made it for "Children's Art" or other, but for EUROPA issue it didn't fit! From first sight, someone will see one ice cream cornet, and "Christmas Star" - one is common in both stamp, and it is some kind of ice cream with choco-chips, that need to be an comet. what to do - not everyone have in mind that what I have, and not everyone like what I like.

How much money to prepare? Face value for two stamp and block is just 3.00 euro, but You will not have it by this prices.

7-2009: Tourism in Montenegro, issued April 16, 2009

Little improvement in graphic design, but nothing new in stamp market, what they want to say and tell us is that Tourism is made from water skiing, rafting, canyon rafting and paragliding. Something that is common to all tourism destination around globe! Let's say - that if I will propose other that this? What You thing if I will made it from Sv. Stefan view of old building, sunshine in Budva coast, probably mountain panoramic view where is Ostrog monastery, and one nice flight attendant in airport, with smile of course!? But, it is what we have, and set of 4 stamp will cost 1.75 euro face value, because nature, sport, and other topic where this issue will fit, this set will be in demand. Don't forget that here we have also one booklet option, inside booklet is one set in different design (margin) than sheetlet!

8-2009: 300 year of Njegosh, issued June 4, 2009

Not bad, we have one portrait of this great man, clearly visible, with part of his work in behind portrait. Don't mix it with other great man from this family (P. P. Njegosh) - here is mentioned Archbishop Vasilije Petrovic Njegosh. He was ruler of dynasty from 1740, during his time come proclamation of independence from Turkish Empire and bring more close ties with Russian. Many achievement made, from writing first history of Montenegro (1754) to education and other.

Can You show me country with 300 yr of history - oh yes - but how much?

Face value is affordable, just 0.40 euro, and it is printed in printing sheets of 20 - which I suggest to obtain.

9-2009: Sport #II, Universiade 2009, Belgrade, Serbia, issued June 4, 2009

If You will not look closely at this stamp, You will not find about what is talking, even that logo and mascot of this sport evening is there! Probably You will think that it is talking about "Youth Day" maybe "Student Day" and if You are extreme, "Proletariat of whole world - Unite"! No - I'm not cynic - and I really like Montenegro (my ancestor come from there) - but, I like to say thrue straight to the face. Face value 0.50 euro, sheet of 8 + one tab, set with tab - prepare premium to pay.

For now it is all - let's pray that future issue will come more "better" and more focused to the topic.

2009-03-13T12:37:00.000-07:00

Postage Due 2009:

Even that this issue are issued in 2009, but because I received it just today (13/III/2009), I will include it in this section, no detaile about date of issue, no FDC available, and no information from Montenegro Post. Just what I see from Invoice is statement: Common Issue 2008.

From this three stamp, I see that it didn't belong to one set - separate design, separate topic and first is for "Montenegro meeting EU", second for Postal hystory and third for Hystory in Montenegro - I think that this issue will stay unnoticed in philately, with zero hope to have any value in catalogues. Topic is good, Postal Car, Sand Watch, Ornament on Church - but it is small help to attract collectors. Total face value are 1.50 euro and it will be Your chance to obtain stamp from Montenegro for collection without thinking that You invested something.

2009-03-13T12:05:00.000-07:00

2009 year start:

1-2009: "Art in Montenegro Through Centuries:

to celebrate 125 yr of Theathre in Nikshich (Niksic) town, really great achievemnt with long tradition from 1884 year. 1 stamp issue, 0.25 euro affordable face value, with one "newspaper" photo of building and ornament - where is here designer imagination, propffession and art? Starting year like this will result in all year like this - but it is not our (collectors) problem - I think that Post of Montenegro need one independent consultant - isn't?

2-2009: "1200 yr Tryphon the Martyr":

One nice hystory item for Montenegro and Venetian related merchant - relatively nice issue that can fit to archeology, religious, history toppic for collectors, set of 2 stamp, with face value of 1.00 euro (I think that Montenegro Post want to be prepared for EU prices whn and if they join EU).

3-2009 "Braille Letter":

yeah - important, and finally little bit improvement in design. One stamp in set, face value of 0.60 euro. FDC also in good style.

2009-03-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

9-2008 till end of 2008:

Today is March 13, 2009 - and just now I received shipment from Montenegro Post!!!! I say, Hallelujah - which kind of service You will hardly believe! What to do - they made some reorganization in Podgorica (Titograd - previously know name for capital) and - how much I see and feel, it go to worst than previously. Why? From past period it was much faster delivery and handling of standing order, with less paperwork involved and payment condition was much better like today. When I received shipment this time, it is inside around 5-6 pages of report from this to other person, revisor and director, all signed controlled and approved for delivery of material worth some 200 euro - can You imagine it? Three or four person involved in every shipment delivered! O.K. let's alone this problem, and go to other - more dangerous - and it is not delivered quantities according delivery notification - terrible!!!!!!

Nu - let's continue with this 2008 year:

9-2008 "Jadran Sail Boat":

Issued on 16/VII/2008 - good topic, worth sail boat for Navy in Montenegro. This sail boat was built in Germany (H. C. Silken Zon) some 75 years ago, and have an great history for "bakartine" type. Mostly was used like school ship for young cadet by Italian, and after WWII it was docked in Venetian channel like some kind of bridge, from here it was returned back to Montenegro, repaired, and as today, again serve like school and training ship.
Value - face 0.50 euro for single, but sheet of 20 will take some premium - dealer? Be happy if You obtained it for face + 100%!!!

10-2008 "Water Polo European Championship":
issued on 15/IX/2008 - to celebrate gold medal in this championship held in Malaga/Spain, poor design, that is what I can say! Face value again 0.50 euro (by way, minimum salary for ordinary worker in Montenegro is around 300.00 euro - and if I need to pay half euro for mail - I will think twice! What You think - how much used material will be on market from this country population of some 600 000-700 000 citizens!).

11-2008 "Art in Montenegro through centuries":

issued on 17/IX/2008 - to show peoples one rare and nice mosaic from Risan/Boka Kotorska/Montenegro - but author and designer failed in all aspect!!! Existed much better way to show on postage stamp this beautiful mosaic in one most clean coast town in Montenegro - sorry for it! Face value for set of 2 is 0.75 euro.

12-2008 : "Stamp Day":

issued on 2/X/2008 - one value of 0.60 euro, picture of post office(?) or better say just one home, made from postage stamps (really postage stamps with face value on it and Montenegro Post logo) - one continued, unrealistic, unnecessary vasting of paper and time - this issue will not have any impact on world philately except this topic (stamp on stamp) that probably will collector buy - even that picture on stamp are stamp never issued by Montenegro Post.

13-2008: "Alfred Nobel":

issued 21/X/2008 - one stamp issue, face value 0.50 euro, wish to scream!!! This is my short description of/for design of this stamp!

14-2008: "100 yr of First Railway in Montenegro":

issued on 31/X/2008, for important occasion in Montenegro, that start to 2/XI/1908 - first railroad opened and connected Bar and Virpazar town (village) at time, just 43 km long, but for this time it was one really great work done - most countries in Europe at time didn't have even paved road and not talk about rail transport - how clever and great is this people!?

1.50 euro face value - lot, but affordable. Problem will be to buy all combination in this issue, and it is set, sheet of 5, booklet with cover and FDC - prepare for dealer double prices with premium for booklet!

15-2008 "Joy of Europe":

issued on 20/XI/2008 - two value in set, face value 0.65 euro, nice picture on stamp and it is all what I can say.

16-2008 "60 yr Human Right declaration":

some combination with national flag and UN logo on stamp, again 0.50 euro face value, again "standard" design and again no comment!!!!

With this we will close 2008 year, even that I didn't see usually issued topic like Christmas and New Year - possible they didn't made it?

2008-08-30T06:11:00.003-07:00

2008 year:

Almost 9 month pass till I received first shipment from Post of Montenegro Phila Services, terrible degradation in service! I don't know why, and Montenegro Post also! Simple reason stated that they are overloaded with orders and it was reason why are late delivery of new issue. I personally think, that they simply don't care about "small order" client (up to 20 set per standing order). In the end I receive it and will say just simple comment - I start to scream!!!!!

First let's see what year programmed say: They planned 13 issue for this year, but from first issue it was broken promises! And design? Oj-vaj-voj! Nothing to say good - it is continuing with "full fat" color in use, and with second issue is "less than need" color in use, they go from far start to far end with color usage! Visible is glorify European Union, and some kind of self promotion.

Let's start with 1-2008 Stabilization and Association Agreement between Montenegro and EU.

Issued Feb 1 2008, with one "combination" (I think without good reason, except to grow revenue), of stamp issued. It is single 1 value stamp like set (0.60 e face) but here come surprise and You will find one booklet issued, that have two stamp in set (0.50+0.40 e face) what is reason for it I don't know, maybe to rise money and pay expenses for conference with EU. For collectors, nothing left, just if someone collect EU logo on stamp! By my opinion, don't deserve attention this issue.

2-20008 Flora: Someone will say - great, but see this image! If flora and flowers on this earth is like that - it must be something is wrong with minerals - poor picture, all in yellow/creme color, four stamp in set. Issued on Feb 20 2008, 0.25+0.40+0.50+0.60 euro face value, not so cheap for this set, issued in sheet of 5 + 1 tab on middle, and quantity printed is satisfactory - just 28 000 set available, two FDC in set that have just 1000 pcs printed.

3-2008 Beijing Olympic I really don't want to comment! Even less advanced countries have better design than Montenegro! Issued on march 20 2008, 2 stamp in set (0.60+0.90 e face value) map and coat of arms in design, yellow/orange color, and it is all what i can say. Quantity go up (because topic and judgement that it will be sold - they think), there are 100 000 set printed, and FDC is big 3 000 pcs. Let's wait and see what and where will catalogue placed this set in future.

4-2008 EUROPE issue for this year are letter writing, and I can comment just simple - good pupils home work done!!!! It is far away from say Serbian issue - why they don't use other designer, more professional, more with "vision" what is worth to put on postage stamp???

Issued on April 2 2008, 0.90 and 0.60 e face value, 60 000 sets printed and 2 000 pcs of FDC. One block printed with two stamp on it (also 0.60 and 0.90 face value) block have 4 000 pcs printed.

5-2008 go to Marko Miljanov Popovic (my parents family name) - who was writer, Duke and field marshal. Possibly worth to issue this stamp, but from collectors point - nothing special. One stamp in issue (0.60 e face value) 28 000 stamp printed, FDC in 2 000 pcs printed.

6-2008 150 yr of Grahovac battle that happen on April 30 1858 (my birthday!!!! months and day), it is very important for Montenegrin history, because with this victory over Turkish occupation army - is established borders of Montenegro Kingdom. Low face value, just 0.25 euro and printed in 28 000 copy, FDC in 2 000 pcs.

7-2008 Tourism - what's for this issue? Why to show some kind of nature reserve that will never attract even student tourist? All what is presented here are four places, four untouched places in Montenegro, showing beach, village, old city and some kind of lake! But if it is "best" attraction that are shown on CM and stamps - I will prefer to go to Serbia!

Again they made "game" with collectors, and issued it in set format, booklet, format - different arrangement for same stamp plus that booklet are sold without and with cover. May 21 2008, 0.25+0.40+0.50 and 0.60 euro face value, 28 000 printed set, and FDC is 2x 1 000 pcs.

8-2008 Chess Olympic in Dresden - one stamp in set, nicely design, 0.60 euro face value, probably will be shortage on market because chess is very popular for collectors. Issued on June 18 2008 with standard 28 000 stamp printed, FDC have it on just 1 000 pcs.

2008-01-05T02:39:00.000-08:00

#26-2007, go for "Joy of Europe", like usually, every year (tradition from Yugoslavia), it is issued on Nov 2, 2007, with one stamp face value 0.50 euro, design one circle of dancing children, inside circle one dove, nothing special for this time, just full blue and yellow color - I don't think that it is worth to do it. Dealer are asking full 1.00 euro for single, 1.50 euro for FDC and sheet of 20 with inscribed border will need 10.00 euro.

#27-2007, "100 year of region telephone traffic", issued Nov 9, 2007 - Funny, but if telephone line and traffic is like this one pictured on stamp, it will be better to travel there with Your own phone in pocket!!!

Not just that "message" from this stamp is confused, but I simply didn't understand it! Some kind of map and phone part on this map - contradictory colors, yeah - for someone who collect just to have stamp is good.

Face value is 0.75 euro, that mean that dealer will take 1.50 euro for set of two, and if You want FDC - prepare next 2.50 euro, set with tab on middle will ask 3.00 euro, and sheetlet of 8 + tab will ask full 12.00 euro.

#28-2007,

issued Dec 5, 2007, named "New Year postage stamp" - I must to say - no nice, but I must to say: If they want to spoil New Year tradition - they made it! What is that design? Look on stamp (0.25 and 0.25 euro) something black, or dark blue on pieces of paper attached to cover, other two value (0.50 and 1.00 euro face) is little bit better. From "first sight" I think that they issued stamp for 'super nova" cosmos, or something from it - but no - it is for New Year celebration!! Terrible - no comment!!!

Set of 4 value will take from You 4.00 euro (dealer prices) and set of two FDC will be for 6.00 euro. I don't think that this issue will ever recover own face value in any of world catalogue.

In the end for this year (2007), I wish to show You new "R" label, that Montenegro start recently to use. If You scroll to beginning of this blog pages, You will find one used cover with "R" sticker, that bear "Yugoslavia" named, which was used from beginning of period, and now I see it first time that finally they designed new logo with Montenegro name on it.

Yes - with this, we "closed" 2007 year, and what I can say just that - let's hope, that someone in there will start to thing about postage stamp like art - not like job that need to be done.

2007-10-12T13:08:00.000-07:00

#25 reprint issue of #1:

here it come great expenses for simple collector like me!!!! This is second in row, and if I didn't made explanation for this reprints in previous blog page, I will do it now (or again - I almost don't remember).

First issue are printed in set of 4 (0.25, 0.40, 0.50 and 0.60 euros). Printed on Dec 15, 2005, on this issue, near logo of Post Montenegro didn't exist name "Post of Montenegro". Two reprints are issue, but not for complete set, first reprint have just 2 value, 0.25 and 0.40 euros, printed in sheet of 20, with year 2005 inscribed in black color, and second reprint in 3 value 0.25, 0.40 and 0.60 euros, printed in sheet of 50, with year 2006 on bottom middle.

Existed also other minor difference, like color (really invisible but different from first print), and sheet arrangement - I think that it will be hard for common collectors to keep collection in perfect full state, just because of this kind of difference.

On scan You see this second reprint, sheet of 50 (on picture you see just folded sheet, it is too large to fit on scan), and cost of full sheet of 50 (3 value) are GREAT fully prepare for dealer 130.00 euros.

2007-10-12T12:48:00.000-07:00

#24 come to navigation (Navy Ship):

I really don't understand why they named it "Navigation" because on design we don't see nothing that can suggest this topic, except that ships need to be navigated, but all things on this planet have same need?!

Issued on August 1, 2007, single stamp face value 0.60 euros, but dealer are keeping it still at 2x face value, if You collect ships - be sure to obtain it even if You will need to pay 1.20 euros for this single.

Design is correct, little bit too much of "fog" used, but it is correct if we take in account that "navigation" is in topic. What is nice for this issue - is printing sheet of 8 + 1 tab - and this tab have an lighthouse on it - Hmmmmmmm - too much for collectors?

No - we need to ad also two kind of CM - what was need for it I don't know, one in blue color (sunrising?) and second in brown/gold color (sunset?) - not something that I like, it just keep more expenses for collectors - but, be fair - who care for collectors?

Prices for sheet of 8+tab go far as 9.60 euros, and CM can reach (2 pcs) 4.40 euros, FDC will cost You just 2.20 euros.

2007-10-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

#23 come to celebrate Peter Lubarda artist, 100 year:

issued on July 27, 2007, with one value stamp, face value of 0.40 euros, and as today, dealer still keep it on double priced 0.80 e, I think that with time it will come down, but no possibility that will be very cheap.

Design is absolutely WRONG, color choice and combination of portrait and picture/drawing, go wrong. Not visible text, hardly to understand great work of this person - what to do!

FDC is selling for 1.80 euros, sheet of 20 stamp will cost You 16.00 euros, and MC just 1.80 euros.

2007-07-28T04:47:00.001-07:00

# 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 and 22:

Number 16 I will reserve photo for first reprint issue, that is issued from set Flag and map, first ever issued, but because I didn't received proper material from Montenegro Post, I'm affraid to publish photo because possible error in photo.

#17 is for Introduction of Gregorian Calendar, one really good design, especially on sheet of 8+1 tab, where tab design will satisfy many collectors.

Issued on Jan 4, 2007, face value of 0.50 euro, but for sheet of 8+1 prepare much more!!!!

#18 is for Protected Animal - Pelican, that we know this topic from begining, when Montenegro issued postage due with same topic to protect Pelicans in Montenegro.

This issue is printed on Jan 7, 2007, with face value of 0.50 euro, and for sheet of 8+1 You will need near 30% more!

#19 go to common EUROPA issue, that is this year for Scout, again postal clerk in Montenegro made one "ops" in order, and didn't delivered me FDC for this issue, but on scan You will see in set format, sheet of 8+1, block and block from booklet. Issued on April 20, 2007. Finally FDC for set, s/s and block is here! Prices for all three FDC cover is now for 22.00 US$.

Face value for two set is 1.50 euro but dealer will rise it for minimum of 3.00 euro, and also for booklet and block You will need to prepare 120 and 150% from face value.

#20 go for Fauna issue, that many collector will need to include in collection. Issued on May 11, 2007, nice design and not so expensive, just 0.75 euro face value - but again dealer will made it two time more!

#21 is issued on Jun 21, 2007 to celebrate 350 year of Montenegrin people in Istria. 1 value, face priced to 0.60 euro, and dealer will rise it to 20% more.

#22 is for Regular Postage Issue in 2007, and have 4 stamp with different topic, nature, old printing, maps, fingerprint - can be classified really like regular.

All 4 have 1.75 euro face value, and dealer will not have much more than 5-10% over face value.

2007-02-07T09:13:00.000-08:00

#15 is for "Cultural Heritage"

Here we come accross "archeology" on Montenegrian soil, where is design on stamp taken from Duklja (Doclea) archeological site, with artifact shown on stamp, with image of site.

Design alone is not for my 'taste' and most of collector for this topic (Archeology) will be "low" satisfacted, because artist used more his own vision and less fact artifact - but, it can be classified like "satisfactory".

Issued on 3 November 2006, artist J. Simonovic, same printer and same tehnique like before.

Quantity for 2 value is 2x30 000 pieces, printing sheet of 20 numbered.

Dealer is selling set (face is 2x0.25 euro) 0.75 euro, FDC go for 2.00 euro, and block of four/corner for 4.00 euro.

2007-02-07T08:59:00.000-08:00

# 14 for "Joy of Europe"

where some nice use of Leonardo's "Madonna" by author Nikola Markovic.

Original print is for promotion of 500 yr of "Madonna" and artis say that "...Mona Lisa was also child like all of us".

Issued on 10 October 2006, again printed in sarajevo, by same standard and paper, perforation like other issue, in same printing sheet of 20 numbered. face value 0.50 euro, little bit higher than previous, but still not expensive.

Dealer is selling it for 0.75 euro, FDC for 2.00 euro, and block of four is 4.00 euro.

Quantity is 40 000 pieces, 10 000 more than usually, maybe Montenegro Post is betting on topic and think that it will sold more because of Mona Lisa.

FDC - I must say again, author of this FDC have lot of color for disposal - if You want to postally use this FDC, You will need marker to writte address!!!!

Cancel on FDC - Hmmmmm - not that You will recognized Mona Lisa at first glance.

2007-02-07T08:42:00.000-08:00

# 13 go to topic "Post Day" (Dan Poste),

but fit to "stamp on stamp" collectors topic.

Simple, nice balanced color used, and design - so-so I think!

Cancel on FDC fell not so correctly (intentionally?), and one part of it is printed over face value on stamp, that (if stamp will be soaked from FDC) can confuse philatelist like overprinted/denominated issue.

Still, quantity is same like before, 30 000, in same printing sheet of 20. face value of 0.25 eur, and dealer is selling it for 0.40 euro. FDC is selling by same dealer for 1.50 euro, and block of four/corner is for 2.00 euro.

2007-02-07T08:32:00.000-08:00

#12 is "Nature Protection" - Tara Mountain:

issued on 15 November 2006, design by J. Simonovic, printed in Sarajevo on 105 gr paper, perforated like usually 13 1/4, in printing sheet of 20 numbered.

1 value, face 0.40 euro, and selling by dealer for 0.60 euro/stamp, if someone need block of four corner with number need to prepare 3.20 euro, and for FDC will need 1.65 euro.

Quantity is same in "frame" of 30 000 pieces, with message on FDC really "in center"!!!

Eyeglass in green leaf with text "factor 100%" - think that many people know about what is talking.

2007-02-07T07:46:00.000-08:00

Montenegro # 11:

"200 yr of Ivo Visin" - Seamen of Boka Kotorska.

It is one nice design for FDC, even that printing quality is not so perfect, and effect to connect ship picture with instrument is losed.

Stamp design by J. Simonovic, printed in Sarajevo, perforated 13 1/4, printing sheet of 20 numbered, quantity is now in "frame" with population, just 30 000 pieces, that will keep prices stable.

Stamp design is well balanced with topic that will fit more than one topic collectors, here we have "ship", "personalities".

face value is 0.40 euro and dealer is selling it by 0.60 euro. FDC is 0.90/1.65 euro and if someone want corner block of 4, he will need to pay 3.20 euro per corner block of four.

2006-09-23T05:47:00.001-07:00

No 8 - here we come with nice design for stamp, but on FDC is (again) some "dark sky", like before tornado - I have an feeling that author is using it intentionally.

2006-09-23T05:47:00.000-07:00

No 7 - FDC design is (my opinion) o.k. - but stamps alone is more in frame of "amateur" dravings.

2006-09-23T05:46:00.001-07:00

No 10 used cover - because I didn't obtain FDC with s/s, I used this way, to create "privat" FDC for this issue.

2006-09-23T05:46:00.000-07:00

No 10 issued in sheetlet of 8+2 tab, think that it is more than common philatelist need.

2006-09-23T05:44:00.000-07:00

o Here is FDC of Europa issue, and again they made it just with stam.
FDC with s/s is not issue, even that s/s is in different design.

2006-09-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

Montenegro #7, 8 and 9

Here is some new issue, number 7 is for "Football Champ in Germany"
(face value of set+block is 3.oo e),

8 is for "Tourism" (face value for set is 0.75 e),

and 9 is for "Independence" (face value for single value is 0.50 E).

Printing house in CPU Sarajevo, on paper CPL 105 gr, offset, perforation 13 1/4, issued in sheetlet 8+1 tab.

It is all same for this three issue, and what to say except that it is in common quality and design.
Number 7 author is M. Kalezic, #8 from N. Skocajic and #9 from J. Simonovic.

Quantity for #7 = 2 value x 32 000 pcs, #8 = 2 value x 32 000 pcs and #9 = 1 value x 25 000 pcs.

Not much for one country, hope that they will keep it in this way.

2006-07-15T06:02:00.000-07:00

Montenegro Postage due - more detail:

From beginning just to say, that this information I have from exhibitors articles (Djordje Markovich, Podgorica, Montenegro), and can be that I made some "not fair act", because I publish it without asking author for permission.
Reason? Simply - I can not reach him! I simply don't have any contact address of him.

Here we have first issue:
Named "Top quality sport", picture of football, in use from17th April till 17th July 2001. Issued in sheets of 8+1 tab and sheets of 100, with one position that have hidden draft men's initials.

What made me angry, is that they issued it with "Sport + Europa" topic, plus "Nature protection" at once single issue!

It don't have any kind of practical use - it is used for extra-pay in mailing mail, and extra income go to national sport organization, but on sheet (see image) is printed tab with nature, and on margin "Europa" - whats for? Just to attract collectors? No - it will not help in revenues!

Second issue:
"Against Violence on Woman" (pictured on page) in use from 26th November till 10th December 2001. Issued same in 8+1 tab sheet (color picture) and sheet of 100 (brown version), with same initials system.

Third issue:
"Raising the forest" (picture), in use from 1st March till 15th March 2002, in same detail of sheetlet and draft man's initial like before.

Fourth issue:
"Struggle against cancer" (picture), valid from 15th March till 15th April 2002, rest info is same like before.

Fifth issue:
Issued to commemorate and support phila expo "Montenegroprofila", in use from 26th May till 26th June 2002. Rest is same like before, and is not pictured on my page. (picture on right).

Sixt issue:
"Nature protection, Skadar lake, Pelicans", pictured on page, and in use from 25th July till 10th August 2002, rest is same.

Seventh issue:
"Hundred years of first postal vehicle in Europe and Montenegro", in use from 9th June till 3th July 2003, rest is same and common for all.

Eight issue:
Tenth cycling tour "King Nikola's Roads", valid from 1st April till 30ht April 2004, rest is same.

Ninth issue:
for "XXVII Olympic in Athens" valid from 15th June till 14th September 2004, rest is same for all.

Tenth issue:
To celebrate phila expo "Montenegroprofila II" in use from 30th September till 30th October 2004, rest is common for all issue.

Like what You see, I have picture of four, not more, not because I don't like, but because (according Montenegro Post official), because it is printed in really low quantity, and with "nice" topic, that resulted of sold-out. Part that was not used, is sold to dealer - and we have it in "shortage".
Anyway - I hope that this info will give some help to collectors, but see the prices!! Face value is 0.05 euro, but try it to by for this money!!!!
Dealer is asking much-much more, if You even will find dealer who have it for sale!
I personally have just few of it, and not all, even in used form I don't have it - I just didn't find it anywhere.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

As today, March 13, 2009 - I wish to show You one rarities for Postage Due #8, from 2004 year - there existed one sample of normal white paper, and second sample is on slightly dark/blue paper. For this sample I don't have any information about when, where or who printed it - more problematic that I obtained it from one dealer in Latvia - I don't believe that it can be forgery - because it is too cheap to made - hardly that someone will have any interest to do it.

Shown is on the top of this page - and next one issue from also unknown date and year, near "Cycling" - You will see one "Red-Cross" issue which was common in Yugoslavia time "Fight against Tuberculosis" - again, no information from any side, Montenegro Post can not give me any info because they didn't issue postage due or Red Cross issue, and they are limited for use on certain period and after that revoked and destroyed.

Any information from other specialist for this country will be welcome.

2006-07-07T11:44:00.000-07:00

Scott Listing for Montenegro Issue

Finally we have it on last issue of Scott Stamp Montly issue (page 78).

First issue for "Coat of Arms and Flag" is numbered by Scott #123-126 set of four value, mint or used have price of 4.25 $ for set,

"Europa" issue have number 127-128 set of two, with price 1.90 $, I think that it is too low for "Europa" issue, but...,

next come "50 yr Europa issue" with numbers 129 for horizontal strip of 4, and priced 13.50$, and "regular" set is valued just 8.50$.

Block (s/sheet) for this issue is numbered 130 and valued to same 13.50$ (it is some error? value for set to be same like for set in strip format!).

Follow set "Winter Olympic" set of 2 numbered 131-132 and valued to 3.75$.

Last for now is "Flowers" in same set for 2, numbered 133-134, and valued at 1.90$.

"Coins" set received numbers 135-136 and value for 2.40$.

"2006 World Cup - Germany" numbered 137-138 and s/s 139 valued 4.00$ per set and 4.00$ per s/s.

Now we come accross listing in Scott "National Symbols" numbered 140-142 (? think it is error) and valued 3.25$.

"Tourism" come next, 143-144 valued 2.00$.

"Independence" one stamp 145 valued 1.25$.

"Europe 2006" set 146-147 4.00$ and s/s with it 148 4.00$.

"Ivo Visin" sailor/ship go 149 for 1.00$.

"Stamp Day" is 150 for 0.65$.

"Paiting of Mona Lisa" 151 for 1.25$.

"Cultural Heritage" 152-153 go for 1.25$.

Yes - Scott give them good starting position, in "regular" option issue, but we have here some issue with tab on middle of set (sheet of 8+1 tab), sheet of 20 with margin tab, etc, that will increase value of issue.

All in all - good beginning, let's see where it will finished!

See that after "Coin" issue, Scott value is going down with value, for sure result is quantity and demand, that affected it - hope that Montenegrin authority will do something if they want to keep it valued on market, but same - I'm afraid they will miss point and continued with same policy.

2006-06-20T11:45:00.000-07:00

Montenegro #6

"100 yr of Montenegrian Coin"

and I must to continue with "...that today, in independent Montenegro didn't existed!"

Date 27 April 2006, author M. Kalezic (know for 90% issue made by him), same tehnical detail like previous issue, but with quantity printed in decline, now it stand at 28 000.

set = 0.90/1.50 E,
sheet of 8+tab = 7.20/12.00,
FDC = 1.40/2.50 E,
CM = 1.90/3.00.

Scott catalog have it by numnber 135-136, and valued it on 2.40 $ per set

2006-06-20T11:38:00.000-07:00

Montenegro #5 (Michel # 114-115)

"Flora"

Date 15 March 2006, author A. Kostic (someone new on "market"?), rest is in same detail like previous issue except printing sheet that is now 20, with numbering, two value in set, and "frame". quantity of 32 000 pcs.

set = 0.75/1.55 E,
sheet of 20 = 15.00/28.00 E,
FDC = 1.25/3.50 E.

catalogue Michel value it at 1.50 euro for used or mint.

Recently, I purchased one FDC that was issued on occasion for Washington exhibition, this FDC have one short history of Montenegro post printed on back, with one stamp attached on, canceled with Washington first day cancel.

Prices are cheap for this FDC, yes - more than catalogue even much more, but we must know that this FDC are not available on every corner.

At present, this cover are valued at 6.00 euro.

2006-06-20T11:26:00.000-07:00

Montenegro #4

"Winter Olympic Torino"

date 7 Feb 2006, author M. Kalezic, with same paper, printer, perforation like previous issue.
Quantity come to "normal" 32 000 (Thank's Good), overall - I think that they have one nice set, also designed FDC is in "good taste".

set = 1.50/2.50 E,
sheet of 8+tab = 12.00/20.00 E,
FDC = 2.00/4.00 E.

2006-06-20T11:04:00.000-07:00

Montenegro #3

"50 yr of first issue 'Europa'"

I really don't know what is need of this issue or better to say, what's for to issue common design "Europa" and also "50 yr of Europa" in same calendar year?
Just to "press" collectors to spend more money? Answer is YES!

date: 3 Jan 2006,
in same studio, paper and perforation is same like previous issue, printing technoque same.

Printed in sheet of 16 stamp (4 set) + 4 tabs between two set.
Quantity is 505 000 sets - really no need for this quantity, but compared with "Coat of Arms" it is significant decline.

let's see prices:

set = 5.50/8.25 E,
set+tab = 5.50/10.00 E,
sheet of 4 set+tab = 22.00/33.00 E,
sheet/block = 5.50/9.00 E,
block imperforated (different design) = 5.50/9.00 E,
FDC = 3.25/6.00 E.

Again "game" with collectors - what's for is block/sheet perforated and next sheet/block imperforated - I cry - what for?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

And as today, May 25, 2010 - I received material from public auction, where I purchased one s/s of this issue, with shifted perforation!

On auction catalog is nicely stated, "shifted perforation" - just-just-just, I made like usually some "exploration", scanned image, zoomed by simple pro gramme of Picasa (from Google) - and what I see? So poorly manipulated perforation, so poorly produced fake perforation - no one can not explain me that it is original from printing plant!

Middle row, horizontally - I see even color marking that was like "guide" for someone perforating machine, that is in dimension smaller than s/s perforation machine (it is in half size of original, just for two stamp) - and this middle row are perforated twice time, that caused hole to be ellipse and not round - and plus this color marking that are applied before perforation happened!

Hope that I will receive response from auction owner, and also from post of Montenegro.

At present this "shifted perforation" are valued at 36.00 euro.

2006-06-20T10:35:00.000-07:00

Montenegro #2

"Europa 2006 - Gastronomy"

Here we have one common issue with Europ countries, that it is this year "Gastronomy".

Again design by Axis Studio,
same printer like #1,
same paper CPL 105 gr,
perforation 13 1/4,
in sheetlet of 8+1 tab,
set of two stamps,
face value 0.75/2.00,
complete set contain 2 stamps + sheet (block) + booklet (karnet).

Here is something that make me confused.
Set and block is same design and same stamp, pictured plate with food, that math topic "Gastronomy", but "in cover" of same topic, they issued booklet (that I received/purchased) without protective cover/pages, just simple block (sheet), but what is in question, is that design of this "booklet" is different from set. It is imprinted "Evropa - gastronomy", but have picture of bee and cup of honey (0.25 e) and second value is glass of wine and grape.
To which topic select this "booklet"?

what dealer say about prices:

set = 0.75/2.00 E,
set+tab = 0.75/3.00 E,
block/sheet = 0.75/1.75 E,
sheet of 8+tab = 6.00/10.00 E,
FDC = 1.25/2.25 E,
booklet = 0.75/4.00 E.

Right now (4/XII/2007) visited eBay auction, and to be fair - all who didn't purchase this issue from beginning, they made great mistake!!!

I see that dealer in Germany are asking for set of this issue (set+block+booklet) just 99.00 euros, others seller just follow this trend, it will be one rare item, and even Post of Montenegro didn't have it in stock anymore.

And now that I have Michel catalogue in hand - I see that I was in right about this issue. Last contact with one person that are willing to sell this issue, made me "cry" - he is asking:

set = 10.00 euro,

kleinbogen (sheet) = 90.00 euro,

booklet = 90.00 euro,

s/s = 16.00 euro,

s/s imperforated = 30.00 euro.

What borrow me mostly is that FDC is non-standard dimension, too big to keep it in any album, and most of all that FDC cover have design of booklet stamp with "gastronomy" stamp on it.

2006-06-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

Montenegro #1

Ahhhhhhhh, let's see what is issued in postage section, I will try to give maximum precise information that is available to me at present, and will state face value and dealers value, that is asked at present (face value will be in light and dealers in bold letters).

Montenegro Coat of Arms (national symbols),

Issued: 15 Dec 2005,
by Axis Studio,
printed by CPU Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina),
paper: CPL 105 gr,
perf.: 13 1/4,
in sheet of 20 and sheet of 8+2 tabs,
set of 4 value,
face value for set = 1.75 /2.50 E,
sheetlet of 8+2 = 14.00/18.00 E,
FDC = 3.75/6.00 E,

Quanity of (great!!!!!) 2.000.000 set.

This is something!
2mil for country of population less than 1m!
What's for?
But everybody have his own system and I think they know why it is printed in 2mil sets.
Little critic for FDC (photo).
Someone who give permission for design didn't think or better to say, didn't see by ordinary peoples eye, it look like to some dark cloud around soil.
If soil on picture present Montenegro, what that mean this dark cloud?

Just received info about first reprint issue of this first set.

Still don't have any samples to show, because from Montenegro Post Service, I received two sheet of 20 but with year 2005! I have issue from 2005 but it is in sheet of 8+2tab format (with year printed in gold), and now they delivered me sheet of 20 (officially printing sheet is of 20) with year printed in black.

On cover (shown) I see postage used from 2005 year and one stamp (left-middle row, first from left) is with year printed 2006 - now question is with which year issue need to be on reprint issue? I think 2006 - in this case, administrator who prepare shipment to me, simply don't know what is reprint issue - sadly!!!!!

Also I must to notice one great "patriotism" over label use, there we see "R" label, but with inscription of SR Yugoslavia!!! Few year pass of independence and they still use Yugoslavian labels - it made me good feelings!

2006-06-18T10:39:00.000-07:00

Postally Used Cover:

Just one sample, which made me angry.
Why?
See, this is cover from shipment of my order, first six issue, that was weight 477 gr.
Well packed, protected with heavy carton, inside all separated by envelopes, folders, stickers.
weight of ambalage have 80% of total weight, O.K. I agree with it, but I have great problem to accept postage, that I pay!!!
It is 12.35 Euro, and it is "in frame" with EU prices, (even that Montenegro is still far away from EU membership and law), BUT-BUT if I pay for postage, I want postage stamp to be attached on envelope, with clear cancel on it!!!!!!
What I received? Simple cover, simple label, no cancel.
Not something that I'm happy (yes - it is my problem and who care?).

I have just luck to noticed one cancel from Israelian Post Tax Authoriy, that stated "tax free", and one more "nice" point:
They still use post label (instead of postage stamp), that is inscribed "Jugoslavija", even that Yuogoslavia was destroied before few years, and Serbia and Montenegro (Country) is also gone, and Montenegro is independent country - but again, they still use "Jugoslavija" inscription.
What about prices for this item/s? I contacted few dealers there in Montenegro, and ALL of them, for simple "canceled to order" cover, they ask between 5-20 euros for each (regarding face value on it), and I think that for this really postally used, with label even, can reach, after few year, some around 15.00 Euro.

2006-06-18T10:19:00.000-07:00

Montenegrop Postage Due #4:

My opinion is that author (again R. Bojanic) have some "problem" with colors, it is too "gray" scale, but maybe it was intention of him, because this issue is named "Let's Grow Forest", same like previous issue, face value of 0.05 Euro, sheet of 8+tab, same printing plant and offset printing.
Dealers is still keeping this prices high, because sheetlet of 8+tab, numbered will be hard to find, especially that we don't know what is quantity used, and what is sold to dealers.
Now they are asking 8.00 Euros for sheetlet of 8+tab.

2006-06-18T10:03:00.000-07:00

Montenegro Postage Due #2 & 3

It was issued in 2002, and one was named: "Struggle against Cancer" (Flower and yellow ball), with face value 0.05 Euro.
Issued like before in sheetlet of 8+tab, printed in same printing plant like before, with no detailed information for technical process.
I just see that it is also offset printing, nice combination with color, design from R. Bojanic, but quantity printed is still unknown.
Dealer around is asking for this sheetlet of 8+tab clearly 10.00 euro.
Too high? I think that for first of issue, from this "new" country, it is worth, because it will be valuable.

Lets talk little about other picture, that is for "Protect Scadar Lake and Pelican".

Topic that many collectors will need for collection, same issued in 8+tab, in same printing plant, same author, same 2002 yr, and same face value of 0.05 Euro.

Dealers? Asking high 8.00 Euro for sheetlet of 8+tab. What is special, it is numbered every sheetlet issued, and I noticed it for this two issue, but previous (Fight Violence on Woman) is missing numbering print.

2006-06-18T09:49:00.000-07:00

Montenegro Postage Due 2001:

Here we have two identical pictures of one issue, which still I didn't find in any of major catalogues.

One was named "Fight against Force over Woman", issued 2001, issued in sheetlet of 8 + tab, and pictured is one sheetlet with author initials imprinted on one stamp.
This imprint is visible just with lens/magnifier.

My opinion is that it is well designed, but printed in standard offset printing, in Novi Sad, Serbia (Voivodina), by Forum printing plant.

Quantity, perforation is not available at present, and face nominal of stamp alone is 0.10+0.05 Euro. Market value (as today) is 10.00 eurofor sheetlet of 8+tab.
For pair of two printed in brown color, dealer are asking about 25.00 euro. And for FDC, which was auctioned recently in Belgrade, I pay full 12.00 euro.

2006-02-11T12:05:00.000-08:00

Montenegro first issue.

Just because of some comments that I received, I must say, that ALL prices for new issue, that appear in, are prices of dealer/s at the day of issue - with time, this prices, usually come down, and every dealer will reduce it according own interest.

Just recently published by "Vecernje Novosti", information about new issue that will be issued by Montenegro.

It will be just with inscription "Montenegro" only, and still no one know if it will be valid just on Montenegrin territory, and if it will be recognized by UPU. Like what we sawe - it happen!

It is, what collectors know to name, one "New Country", and next one "Dead Country" topic, but how it will be valued on really stamp market no one know.

According info from Montenegro Post Authority, they have programme with all "commercial" topic and face value will be (my opinion) just for dealers budget, and I think, they have support from Italian dealers and organization.

When I ask about subscription service and reduction in prices for dealers, all condition "suggest" that it is "just for wholesale" agent, and small philatelist/collectors will be "out" practically - what to do?!

Printing is done in Bosnia (Sarajevo) even that actually country "Serbia and Montenegro" have enough printing plant to do job, but again, it "smelt" for some "private" deal, where someone will take profit (again on collectors pocket).

For now, it is all what i can say, in future, when I will have it in my possession, I will made scan available.

Chastven Miloje
Dealer with Balkan Countries Philatelic Material
APS, ISWSC, NSDA, ex-ASDA, and some more

==================================================================
And like what i promised,

here it is - picture of first issue from Montenegro (Crna Gora), that is still part of Serbia and Crna Gora country.

It took me few months of contacting officials in Montenegro Post and some emails, without any success, and finally I received it from Bosnian dealer, who deliver it quickly but prices was little bit high - 40.00 Euros for this sheet of 8+2 labels (tabs).

I was little bit surprised, because my expectation for first issue was much more than that what I see! I hoped that it will be little more "art" involved, with some engraving, if not all engraved, but nothing from it!

Here is technical detail:

Issued on: 15 December 2005

Design: Axis Studio

Printed in: Offset CPU Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina) !!!

Paper: CPL 105 gr

Perforation: 13 1/4

Printing sheet: 20 and sheet of 8 stamp + 2 label

Set have: 4 value

Face value: 1.75 Euro (money in use is still dinar!!!!!!!)

Quantity: 2.000.000 (unbelieved!!!!!!!)

FDC: 4 cover

If I can comment it, it is just another simple issue, print 2mil x 1.75 euro = 3 and half mil Euros cash (if it will be sold by face value all - hard to believe) - simple marketing deal, without any consideration for philatelist and philately in particular.

They didn't think, that it is almost, for every citizen of Montenegro one set per head?!

And let's calculate, that from it, few people will really used it postally! It will be very low catalog value, because of so high quantity printed, and I don't think someone will even look for it, because, except "Map on stamp", "Flag", and "Coat of Arms" topic, here we don't have major topic present. This will result in low demand from topical collectors, and simple offset printing with regular raster in use, give one image of "label" instead of "stamp".

I really hate to criticize someone effort to made job properly, but it is obvious that person in charge of this project, was in "economy" category and not in "history to made" category.

Let's see what Montenegro Post planned for 2006 year:

15 Dec 2005 = first issue,
30 Dec 2005 = "Europa" issue,

3 Jan 2006 = 50 yr of "Europe" issue,
7 Feb 2006 = "Winter Olympic",
15 March 2006 = "Flora and Fauna",
27 April 2006 = "Europa",
30 May 2006 = "Football Champ",
5 July 2006 = "Tourism",
30 Aug 2006 = "100 yr of Perper Money",
5 Sept 2006 = "Cultural Heritage",
2 Oct 2006 = "Stamp Day",
18 Oct 2006 = "Joy of Europe",
3 Nov 2006 = "Ivo Vizin birth",
15 Nov 2006 = "Nature Protection".

All in total 14.45 Euro for simple "one set year 2006" collection in face value.

Consider, that for "full collection" collector need all issued variety (set, block, sheetlet, booklet, FDC, CM) it will reach, for complete year set, more than 200+ US$, that will be hard to sell/buy mission! If we will add here postage cost, bank transfer fees, (post of Montenegro didn't accept credit card payment), calculation will reach around 300 US$ per year set, for printing quantity of 2mil per issue?????????

Too much to accept!!!!!

But in the end - let's see what will major catalogue say - maybe they sold all quantity to one dealer, who will keep supply in minimum, and that can rise prices?!

Oh - even forgotted: Official in post Montenegro, announced delivering to address worldwide some 500.000 cover, from this first issue, but I still didn't hear from anyone, that it actually happen!

Yeah, for now, it will be enough critics, in the future, I will try to post more picture, and hope some good news.

best regards to all, Chastven Miloje, Israel/Yugoslavia, Stamp Dealer with Balkan Countries material, balkanstamp@gmail.com