Afars and Issas Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Afars and Issas Stamps
The Territory of the Afars and the Issas was a French overseas territory located in the Horn of Africa, bordering the Red Sea. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to French colonial administration, with stamps initially issued under French Somaliland and later reflecting the territory's transition toward independence. Issues from this period predominantly feature French inscriptions alongside local geographical or cultural motifs. The territory ultimately became the independent nation of Djibouti in 1977, marking the end of this specific postal entity.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1967 – 1977
- Languages:
- French, Afar, Somali
- Currency:
- DJF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
Afars and Issas stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Afars and Issas Stamp Series
Definitive Series (1967-1977)
Features local landscapes, wildlife, and cultural motifs, often with the 'REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE' and 'TERRITOIRE FRANCAIS DES AFARS ET DES ISSAS' inscriptions.
Commemorative Issues (1967-1977)
Various issues celebrating French and local events, often depicting historical figures, flora, fauna, and local industries.
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Afars and Issas Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Most common stamps are inexpensive, especially used. Full sets and unmounted mint condition stamps, particularly earlier definitives or specific commemorative issues, can fetch higher prices. Errors or varieties are rare and command significant premiums.
How to Identify Afars and Issas Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Afars and Issas stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'TERRITOIRE FRANCAIS DES AFARS ET DES ISSAS' or 'T.F.A.I.'
- 2 Stamps often feature French currency denominations (e.g., 'F' for Francs)
- 3 Many issues share design characteristics with other French colonial territories of the period.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Afars and Issas stamps?
Afars and Issas stamps were issued by the French overseas territory of the Afars and the Issas, located in the Horn of Africa, between 1967 and 1977. They reflect the region's French colonial administration and its transition towards independence as Djibouti.
Are Afars and Issas stamps valuable?
While many common Afars and Issas stamps are relatively inexpensive, certain complete sets, unmounted mint issues, or specific commemorative stamps can be more valuable, ranging from a few dollars to several hundred dollars for rarer items or errors.
How can I identify Afars and Issas stamps?
You can identify Afars and Issas stamps by looking for the explicit inscription 'TERRITOIRE FRANCAIS DES AFARS ET DES ISSAS' or 'T.F.A.I.'. They typically feature French currency and often depict local scenery, wildlife, or cultural themes. Using a stamp identifier app can also help quickly identify these stamps.
Which catalogs list Afars and Issas stamps?
Afars and Issas stamps are comprehensively listed in major stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, usually found under 'Afars and Issas' or within the French colonial sections.
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