German Cameroon Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German Cameroon Stamps
German Cameroon was a colony located in West Africa, administered by the German Empire from 1884 until its occupation by Allied forces during World War I. The postal history of this territory is characterized by issues under German authority, often featuring German inscriptions and currency, reflecting its status as a key part of *Deutsch-Mittelafrika*. Following the war, the territory was partitioned into British and French mandates, leading to distinct subsequent postal administrations and stamp issues for British Cameroons and French Cameroun.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- West Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1897 – 1916
- Languages:
- German
- Currency:
- Pfenning/Mark
- Parent issuer:
- German Empire
Stamp Catalogs
German Cameroon stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German Cameroon Stamp Series
Yacht Series (Hohenzollern) (1900-1919)
The definitive series for all German colonies, featuring the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern'. These stamps were overprinted with 'Kamerun' for use in German Cameroon.
Provisional Issues (1897-1900)
Early issues often consisted of German Empire stamps overprinted 'Kamerun' or 'Deutsch-Ostafrika' (for some early provisional uses) before the dedicated yacht series.
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German Cameroon Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific overprint varieties, and cancellations. Early provisional issues and high-value Yacht series stamps, especially unused or with rare cancellations, can be quite valuable. Forgeries exist, particularly of overprints.
How to Identify German Cameroon Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German Cameroon stamps:
- 1 Look for the 'Kamerun' overprint on German Empire stamps or the 'Yacht' design with 'Kamerun' at the bottom.
- 2 Examine the watermark (usually lozenges for the Yacht series) and perforation for authenticity.
- 3 Pay attention to the currency denominations, which are in Pfennig and Mark.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are German Cameroon stamps?
German Cameroon stamps are postage stamps issued for the German colony of Kamerun in West Africa, from 1897 until its occupation during World War I. They primarily consist of German Empire stamps overprinted 'Kamerun' and the distinctive 'Yacht' series stamps with 'Kamerun' inscribed.
Are German Cameroon stamps valuable?
The value of German Cameroon stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rare provisional overprints, high-denomination Yacht series stamps, or stamps with specific rare cancellations can fetch hundreds or even thousands of euros. Condition plays a significant role in their value.
How can I identify German Cameroon stamps?
To identify German Cameroon stamps, look for the 'Kamerun' overprint on German Empire stamps or the 'Yacht' design with 'Kamerun' at the bottom. Check the currency (Pfennig/Mark) and the design elements. For precise identification and to detect forgeries, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog like Michel or Scott.
Which catalogs list German Cameroon stamps?
German Cameroon stamps are extensively listed in major stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Michel Deutschland-Spezial-Katalog (specifically for German Colonies), the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (Volume 3), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (though primarily for the subsequent British Cameroons issues, some early German issues may be referenced).
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