Azores Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Azores Stamps
The Azores are an autonomous archipelago of Portugal situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, geographically part of Europe. As an integral part of Portugal, its postal history is intrinsically linked to the Portuguese administration, with stamps generally denominated in Portuguese currency and featuring Portuguese language. While historically administered as an overseas province, the islands achieved autonomous status in 1976, though stamp issuance remains under the central Portuguese postal authority, CTT Correios. Therefore, Azorean stamps primarily reflect Portuguese national themes and administrative continuity.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southwestern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1868 – present
- Languages:
- Portuguese
- Currency:
- EUR
- Parent issuer:
- Portugal
Stamp Catalogs
Azores stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Azores Stamp Series
Crown Issue (1868-1880s)
The first stamps issued specifically for the Azores, featuring the Portuguese Crown design, overprinted with 'AÇORES'.
King Carlos I Issue (1892-1906)
Stamps depicting King Carlos I, often overprinted 'AÇORES', reflecting the monarchical period.
Republic Issue (1910s-1920s)
Following the establishment of the Portuguese Republic, stamps featuring republican designs, also overprinted for Azorean use.
Azores Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, especially those with rare overprints or in pristine condition, can fetch significant prices. Later definitive and commemorative issues are generally inexpensive, unless part of a complete set or featuring specific errors.
How to Identify Azores Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Azores stamps:
- 1 Look for the overprint 'AÇORES' on early Portuguese stamps.
- 2 Later issues may explicitly state 'AÇORES' or feature distinct Azorean imagery.
- 3 Denominations are typically in Portuguese currency (Reis, Escudos) before the Euro.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Azores stamps?
Azores stamps are postage stamps issued for use in the autonomous archipelago of the Azores, an integral part of Portugal. Historically, these were Portuguese stamps overprinted with 'AÇORES', but modern issues may feature specific Azorean themes while remaining part of the Portuguese postal system.
Are Azores stamps valuable?
The value of Azores stamps varies widely. Early issues, particularly those from the 19th and early 20th centuries with specific overprints or in fine condition, can be quite valuable (€50 - €500+). More recent definitive and commemorative stamps are generally common and inexpensive (€0.10 - €5), unless they are part of a complete collection or have specific philatelic interest.
How can I identify Azores stamps?
To identify Azores stamps, look for the 'AÇORES' overprint on early Portuguese stamps. Later issues may explicitly state 'AÇORES' or depict unique Azorean landmarks, flora, or fauna. You can also use a stamp identification app by taking a picture of the stamp; the app will help you identify its origin and details.
Which catalogs list Azores stamps?
Azores stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel catalog (specifically for Portugal and Colonies), and the Stanley Gibbons catalog (Part 10: Portugal & Spain).
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