German Samoa Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German Samoa Stamps
German Samoa, located in Oceania within the Polynesian subregion, was administered as a German colony from 1899 until its capture by New Zealand forces in 1914. Stamps issued during this period primarily featured German colonial designs and were denominated in German currency, reflecting the administrative control of the German Empire. Following the occupation, postal services transitioned under New Zealand administration, leading to the eventual issuance of stamps reflecting British Commonwealth postal practices and English language usage. The territory's postal history is thus marked by a distinct, albeit brief, period of German colonial philately before its integration into the New Zealand mandate system.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Polynesia
- Issuing period:
- 1900 – 1915
- Languages:
- German
- Currency:
- DEM
- Parent issuer:
- German Empire
Stamp Catalogs
German Samoa stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German Samoa Stamp Series
Yacht 'Hohenzollern' Issue (1900-1914)
The definitive series for German colonies, featuring the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern II'. These stamps were overprinted 'Samoa'.
Samoa Overprints on German Empire Stamps (1900)
Early issues consisting of German Empire stamps overprinted 'Samoa' for use in the colony.
New Zealand Occupation Overprints (1914-1915)
German Samoa stamps overprinted 'G.R.I.' (Georgius Rex Imperator) and 'Samoa' by the New Zealand occupying forces.
German Samoa Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific overprints, and denominations. Early overprints and higher denominations, especially those with good centering and no faults, command higher prices. Stamps used during the New Zealand occupation are also sought after.
How to Identify German Samoa Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German Samoa stamps:
- 1 Look for the 'Samoa' overprint on German colonial 'Yacht' designs or early German Empire stamps.
- 2 Check for the 'G.R.I.' and 'Samoa' overprints on German Samoa stamps, indicating New Zealand occupation.
- 3 Denominations are in German currency (Pfennig and Mark).
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are German Samoa stamps?
German Samoa stamps are postage stamps issued for the German colony of Samoa from 1900 to 1914. They primarily feature German colonial designs, such as the 'Yacht' series, overprinted with 'Samoa', and were denominated in German currency. A brief period of New Zealand occupation issues also exists.
Are German Samoa stamps valuable?
Yes, many German Samoa stamps can be valuable, especially early overprints, higher denominations, and stamps from the New Zealand occupation period. Their value depends heavily on rarity, condition, and specific varieties. Common stamps might be worth a few euros, while rare examples can fetch hundreds or even thousands.
How can I identify German Samoa stamps?
You can identify German Samoa stamps by looking for the 'Samoa' overprint on German colonial designs (like the 'Yacht' series) or early German Empire stamps. Stamps from the occupation period will also have 'G.R.I.' and 'Samoa' overprints. Using a stamp identifier app can help confirm their authenticity and provide more details.
Which catalogs list German Samoa stamps?
German Samoa stamps are extensively listed in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Deutschland-Spezial-Katalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue.
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