Funchal Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Funchal Stamps
Funchal, the capital of the Portuguese autonomous region of Madeira, is geographically situated in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Northwestern Africa. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to Portugal, operating under the Portuguese postal administration for most of its existence, though it briefly issued its own provisional stamps during periods of political uncertainty. Stamps from Funchal predominantly feature Portuguese language and currency, reflecting its status as an integral part of the Portuguese state. The island's postal system has evolved in parallel with that of mainland Portugal, maintaining a consistent administrative framework.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1892 – 1898
- Languages:
- Portuguese
- Currency:
- PTE
- Parent issuer:
- Portugal
Stamp Catalogs
Funchal stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Funchal Stamp Series
King Carlos I Issue (1892-1898)
Provisional issues overprinted 'FUNCHAL' on stamps of Portugal featuring King Carlos I.
Provisional Surcharges (1892)
Stamps of Portugal surcharged with new values, then overprinted 'FUNCHAL'.
issuer:funchal.series.items.2.name (issuer:funchal.series.items.2.period)
issuer:funchal.series.items.2.description
Funchal Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Funchal stamps largely depends on the specific Portuguese base stamp used, the clarity and type of the 'FUNCHAL' overprint, and any additional surcharges. Rarer varieties and errors can fetch significant prices.
How to Identify Funchal Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Funchal stamps:
- 1 Look for the overprint 'FUNCHAL' (often in sans-serif capitals) on stamps originally issued for Portugal.
- 2 Examine the base stamp for the portrait of King Carlos I of Portugal.
- 3 Check for provisional surcharges in addition to the Funchal overprint.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Funchal stamps?
Funchal stamps are provisional issues used in Funchal, the capital of Madeira, during a specific period from 1892 to 1898. These were regular stamps of Portugal overprinted with 'FUNCHAL' to indicate their specific use in the city, often due to local postal administration needs or political circumstances.
Are Funchal stamps valuable?
The value of Funchal stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rarer varieties, specific overprint types, or stamps with errors can be quite valuable, reaching hundreds or even thousands of euros. Their value is often tied to the scarcity of the underlying Portuguese stamp and the specifics of the overprint.
How can I identify Funchal stamps?
To identify Funchal stamps, look for the distinct 'FUNCHAL' overprint on stamps that typically feature the portrait of King Carlos I of Portugal. Pay attention to the font, color, and position of the overprint. A stamp identifier app can be a valuable tool for quickly recognizing these stamps and providing more detailed information.
Which catalogs list Funchal stamps?
Funchal stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, including varieties of overprints, surcharges, and estimated values.
Not sure if your stamp is from Funchal?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store