French Oceania Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About French Oceania Stamps
French Oceania, encompassing numerous island groups in the South Pacific, was administered as a French colony and later as an overseas territory. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to France, with stamps generally denominated in French currency and featuring French inscriptions, often alongside local motifs. The region's postal administration transitioned through various phases of French colonial rule, culminating in the establishment of French Polynesia as an overseas collectivity. This history is reflected in the evolution of its definitive and commemorative issues throughout the 20th century.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Polynesia
- Issuing period:
- 1892 – 1956
- Languages:
- French
- Currency:
- XPF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
French Oceania stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular French Oceania Stamp Series
Navigation and Commerce (1892-1900s)
Overprinted stamps of French Colonies with 'OCEANIE' or 'ETABLISSEMENTS DE L'OCEANIE' featuring allegorical figures representing navigation and commerce.
Local Views and Portraits (1903-1920s)
Definitive series depicting local scenes, landscapes, and portraits of indigenous people, often with 'ETABLISSEMENTS DE L'OCEANIE' or 'OCEANIE' inscriptions.
Colonial Exhibition Issues (1931)
Commemorative stamps issued for the Colonial Exhibition in Paris, often featuring designs common to other French colonies but with specific overprints for Oceania.
French Oceania Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available. Early overprints, high values, and stamps in fine condition can fetch higher prices. Errors and varieties are particularly sought after.
How to Identify French Oceania Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying French Oceania stamps:
- 1 Look for 'OCEANIE', 'ETABLISSEMENTS DE L'OCEANIE', or 'FRENCH OCEANIA' inscriptions.
- 2 Many early issues are overprints on general French Colonies stamps.
- 3 Denominations are typically in French currency (centimes, francs).
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are French Oceania stamps?
French Oceania stamps were issued for the French colonial and later overseas territory encompassing various island groups in the South Pacific, from 1892 until 1956. They typically feature French inscriptions and currency, often with local motifs.
Are French Oceania stamps valuable?
The value of French Oceania stamps varies. Common issues can be found for under $10, while rare early overprints, high values, and stamps in pristine condition can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Factors like condition, rarity, and specific issues influence their value.
How can I identify French Oceania stamps?
You can identify French Oceania stamps by looking for inscriptions like 'OCEANIE', 'ETABLISSEMENTS DE L'OCEANIE', or 'FRENCH OCEANIA'. Many early stamps are overprints on general French Colonies issues. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly identify specific issues and learn more about them.
Which catalogs list French Oceania stamps?
French Oceania stamps are extensively listed in major stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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