Comoro Islands Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Comoro Islands Stamps
The Comoro Islands are an archipelago situated in the western Indian Ocean, forming part of the East African region. Historically a French colony, the islands' postal system was integrated into the French colonial network until independence in 1975, with stamps often reflecting French influence and administration. The official languages are Comorian, French, and Arabic, all of which may appear on the country's philatelic issues. The political fragmentation following independence has led to distinct stamp issues reflecting the separate administrative statuses of the islands, particularly Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1950 – 2019
- Languages:
- Comorian, French, Arabic
- Currency:
- KMF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
Comoro Islands stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Comoro Islands Stamp Series
Colonial Issues (French Comoro Islands) (Pre-1975)
Stamps issued under French administration, often featuring local scenes, flora, fauna, and French colonial themes. These issues are generally more unified before the post-independence fragmentation.
Post-Independence Issues (Comoros) (1975-Present)
After independence, the unified Comoros issued stamps, though political instability and the secession of islands like Anjouan and Moheli led to distinct issues from these entities as well. Themes often include national symbols, local culture, and international events.
Anjouan, Grande Comore, Moheli Issues (Various post-1975)
Following political fragmentation, the individual islands of Anjouan, Grande Comore, and Moheli issued their own stamps, often with distinct designs and overprints reflecting their autonomous status or secessionist periods.
Comoro Islands Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Comoro Islands stamps, especially modern issues, are generally inexpensive. Earlier colonial issues and certain definitive sets or error varieties can command higher prices. Stamps from the individual islands (Anjouan, Grande Comore, Moheli) can also vary significantly in value based on rarity and demand.
How to Identify Comoro Islands Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Comoro Islands stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Comores' or 'Archipel des Comores' as the primary country name.
- 2 Early colonial issues will often bear French text and colonial designs.
- 3 Post-independence stamps will feature 'République Fédérale Islamique des Comores' or 'Union des Comores'.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Comoro Islands stamps?
Comoro Islands stamps are postage stamps issued by the Comoro Islands, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean. This includes stamps from the French colonial period (often labeled 'Comores' or 'Archipel des Comores'), and issues from the independent Comoros (since 1975), as well as stamps from the individual islands of Anjouan, Grande Comore, and Moheli during periods of their distinct administrative status.
Are Comoro Islands stamps valuable?
The value of Comoro Islands stamps varies widely. Many common modern issues are inexpensive, ranging from $0.20 to $5. However, certain early colonial issues, complete definitive sets, stamps with errors, or rare issues from the individual islands can be quite valuable, fetching $50 to over $500. Factors like condition, rarity, and demand significantly influence their worth.
How can I identify Comoro Islands stamps?
To identify Comoro Islands stamps, look for the country name 'Comores', 'Archipel des Comores', 'République Fédérale Islamique des Comores', or 'Union des Comores'. Stamps from the individual islands will be marked 'Anjouan', 'Grande Comore', or 'Moheli'. Colonial issues often feature French text and designs. For precise identification and cataloging, consider using a stamp identifier app which can help you quickly recognize and learn more about your stamps.
Which catalogs list Comoro Islands stamps?
Comoro Islands stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Katalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, among others. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, designs, and estimated values.
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