Annam & Tonkin Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Annam & Tonkin Stamps
Annam and Tonkin comprised the northern and central protectorates of French Indochina, situated in Southeast Asia. Their postal history is intrinsically linked to the French colonial administration, which managed postal services under the general framework of the French postal system and the Universal Postal Union. Stamps issued for these territories typically feature French inscriptions alongside local names, often denominated in French currency units like the piastre. Following the dissolution of French Indochina, the postal administration transitioned through various political phases, eventually leading to separate postal entities for modern Vietnam.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1888 – 1889
- Languages:
- French, Vietnamese
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- French Indochina
Stamp Catalogs
Annam & Tonkin stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Annam & Tonkin Stamp Series
General Issues for Annam & Tonkin (1888-1889)
These issues were surcharges on French colonial stamps, specifically for use in Annam and Tonkin, marking the beginning of distinct postal issues for these protectorates.
Surcharged French Colonial Stamps (1888)
The initial stamps were French colonial 'Commerce and Navigation' types overprinted with 'ANNAM ET TONKIN' and new values, reflecting the specific postal needs of the region.
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Annam & Tonkin Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Annam & Tonkin stamps varies significantly based on condition, specific issue, and the presence of rare overprints or errors. Early surcharged issues are generally more sought after.
How to Identify Annam & Tonkin Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Annam & Tonkin stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'ANNAM ET TONKIN' or 'ANNAM & TONKIN' on the stamps.
- 2 Stamps are typically overprints or surcharges on French colonial 'Commerce and Navigation' or 'Peace and Commerce' types.
- 3 Denominations are usually in French currency (centimes, francs) or piastres.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Annam & Tonkin stamps?
Annam & Tonkin stamps were postal issues used in the French protectorates of Annam and Tonkin, located in what is now central and northern Vietnam, during the late 19th century. They were part of the broader French Indochina postal administration.
Are Annam & Tonkin stamps valuable?
Some Annam & Tonkin stamps, particularly the early surcharged issues and those in fine condition, can be quite valuable to collectors. Rarer varieties, errors, or stamps with significant postal history can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Common issues are generally more affordable.
How can I identify Annam & Tonkin stamps?
To identify Annam & Tonkin stamps, look for the distinctive 'ANNAM ET TONKIN' or 'ANNAM & TONKIN' overprints on French colonial stamp designs. You can also use a stamp identifier app, which can scan your stamp and provide details about its origin and characteristics.
Which catalogs list Annam & Tonkin stamps?
Annam & Tonkin stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott (under French Colonies or French Indochina), Michel (Germany), and Stanley Gibbons (Great Britain). Specialized French colonial catalogs also provide detailed listings.
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