... My first great postcard coming from a totally unknown British Overseas Territory (BOT) for me👍... the smallest remnant of the British Empire located in Cyprus... there are 14 United Kingdom Overseas Territories and "The Sovereign Base Areas Of Akrotiri And Dhekelia" is the only one that not issue its own postage stamps... postal services are provided by the British Forces Post Office... the postcard was sent from the UK to the base and they mailed it stamped back to me🙂!!! Big Thanks Rasa for arranging this swap for me! (✿◠‿◠)
"SBAA is not an official oval car sign but British car numbers on the The Sovereign Base Areas Of Akrotiri And Dhekelia commmonly starts with SBAA."
Essentially it is two UK military bases that are located in the Republic of Cyprus (southern Cyprus) and are not considered part of Cyprus. The UK kept these bases as part of the deal that granted Cyprus independence in 1960. Over half of the people living in the area are Cypriots who either farm, live, or work within British base territory.
The bases are run by the Commanding officer of British Forces Cyprus, so it is a military rather than a civilian position. It is governed by the laws of the Colony of Cyprus as per 1960, and they even have their own police force.
Stamps:
Christmas Stamps
(Issued 15-11-1988)
2X Queen Elizabeth II
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