Cameroon Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Cameroon Stamps
Cameroon, situated in Central Africa, possesses a complex postal history reflecting its shifting colonial allegiances, initially under German rule before being partitioned between France and the United Kingdom following World War I. This dual heritage is evident in the bilingual nature of its stamps, which frequently feature both French and English inscriptions. The country unified in 1961, transitioning from separate British Cameroons and French Cameroun postal administrations to a single federal entity, which later became the Republic of Cameroon, influencing the subsequent standardization of its philatelic output.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Central Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1915 – 2015
- Languages:
- French, English
- Currency:
- XAF
- issuer:cameroon.overview.parentIssuer:
- issuer:cameroon.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Cameroon stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Cameroon Stamp Series
Colonial Issues (German, French, British) (Pre-1961)
Stamps issued under German, French, and British administrations, reflecting the diverse colonial history.
Federal Republic of Cameroon Issues (1961-1972)
Stamps issued after the unification of British and French Cameroons, often featuring bilingual inscriptions and national symbols.
Republic of Cameroon Issues (1972-Present)
Stamps issued after the transition to a unitary state, continuing to showcase national themes, wildlife, and cultural heritage.
Cameroon Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early colonial issues, especially German Cameroons and certain French/British mandate errors or rare cancellations, can command significant prices. Later definitive and commemorative issues are generally affordable, with higher values for complete sets, plate blocks, or specific thematic issues in pristine condition.
How to Identify Cameroon Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Cameroon stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Cameroun' (French) or 'Cameroons' (English) inscriptions, often appearing together on stamps issued after 1961.
- 2 Early issues will bear inscriptions of the respective colonial powers (e.g., 'Deutsch-Kamerun', 'Cameroun Poste', 'British Cameroons').
- 3 Observe the currency used; early French issues used Francs, British issues used Pounds/Shillings/Pence, and modern issues use CFA Francs.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cameroon stamps?
Cameroon stamps are postage stamps issued by the various postal administrations that have governed the territory of Cameroon, from its early colonial period under Germany, through French and British mandates, to its unified status as the Federal Republic and later the Republic of Cameroon. They reflect a rich history of colonial influence and national identity.
Are Cameroon stamps valuable?
The value of Cameroon stamps varies widely. Early colonial issues, particularly those from German Cameroons or rare varieties from the French and British mandates, can be quite valuable, ranging from €50 to several hundred euros or more. Later definitive and commemorative stamps are generally more common and affordable, typically ranging from €0.10 to €5, though complete sets or specific thematic issues in fine condition can fetch higher prices.
How can I identify Cameroon stamps?
You can identify Cameroon stamps by looking for inscriptions such as 'Cameroun' (French) or 'Cameroons' (English), often appearing together on stamps issued after 1961. Earlier colonial stamps will bear the names of their respective colonial powers. Utilizing a stamp identifier app can help you quickly identify specific issues, their catalog numbers, and estimated values by simply scanning the stamp.
Which catalogs list Cameroon stamps?
Cameroon stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, Michel (especially for German colonial issues and later), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (for British Cameroons and later issues). These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated market values.
Not sure if your stamp is from Cameroon?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store