German Mariana Islands Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German Mariana Islands Stamps
The German Mariana Islands, situated in Micronesia within Oceania, formed part of the German colonial empire's Pacific possessions following the tripartite convention of 1899. Stamps issued during this period, primarily between 1900 and 1914, typically bore German inscriptions, reflecting the administration of the German New Guinea post office. This postal system ceased with the Japanese occupation at the outbreak of World War I, leading to the subsequent issuance of Japanese administration stamps. The islands' philatelic history is thus defined by this brief but distinct German colonial era.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Micronesia
- Issuing period:
- 1899 – 1916
- Languages:
- German
- Currency:
- German Mark (Pfennig)
- Parent issuer:
- German Empire
Stamp Catalogs
German Mariana Islands stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German Mariana Islands Stamp Series
Yacht Issue (Hohenzollern Yacht) (1900-1914)
The definitive series for all German colonies, featuring the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern'. These stamps were overprinted 'Marianen' for use in the German Mariana Islands.
Provisional Overprints (1900)
Early issues often involved overprints on German Empire stamps, sometimes with local surcharges, before the standard Yacht series became prevalent.
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German Mariana Islands Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific overprint varieties, and cancellations. Early provisional issues and high-denomination Yacht stamps in fine condition are particularly sought after. Forgeries of overprints exist.
How to Identify German Mariana Islands Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German Mariana Islands stamps:
- 1 Look for the 'Marianen' overprint on stamps featuring the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern'.
- 2 Examine the overprint for authenticity; many forgeries exist, especially of the more valuable varieties.
- 3 Check for German inscriptions and denominations in Pfennig and Mark.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are German Mariana Islands stamps?
German Mariana Islands stamps are postage stamps issued by the German colonial administration for the Mariana Islands between 1900 and 1914. They are primarily German Empire stamps, most notably the 'Yacht' series, overprinted with 'Marianen'.
Are German Mariana Islands stamps valuable?
Yes, German Mariana Islands stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare varieties, high denominations, and stamps in excellent condition. Common examples might fetch €5-€50, while rare overprints or errors can command hundreds or even thousands of Euros. Their value is influenced by their historical significance as colonial issues.
How can I identify German Mariana Islands stamps?
To identify German Mariana Islands stamps, look for the distinctive 'Marianen' overprint, typically on stamps depicting the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern'. The stamps will also feature German text and denominations. For precise identification and to distinguish genuine stamps from forgeries, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list German Mariana Islands stamps?
German Mariana Islands stamps are comprehensively listed in major international philatelic catalogs such as Michel (especially the Germany and Colonies volumes), Scott, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, overprints, and estimated market values.
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