Ghadames Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Ghadames Stamps
Ghadames, historically a significant oasis town in the Sahara Desert, is geographically situated in present-day western Libya, North Africa. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the broader administrative history of Tripolitania and later Italian Libya, before becoming part of independent Libya. Stamps issued for this region would typically reflect the official languages of the ruling powers, primarily Arabic and Italian during the colonial era. The town's remote location meant its postal service was integrated into the larger Italian colonial postal network before national independence.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- North Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1949 – 1949
- Languages:
- French, Arabic
- Currency:
- XOF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
Ghadames stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Ghadames Stamp Series
General Issues (1949)
Stamps issued under French administration, often overprinted on French colonial issues.
Fezzan-Ghadames Overprints (1949)
French stamps overprinted 'FEZZAN GHADAMES' or similar, denoting the French military administration.
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Ghadames Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Ghadames stamps can vary significantly based on condition, specific overprint, and whether they are on cover. Early issues and complete sets tend to be more valuable.
How to Identify Ghadames Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Ghadames stamps:
- 1 Look for 'GHADAMES' or 'FEZZAN GHADAMES' overprints, often on French colonial stamps.
- 2 Examine the base stamp for French colonial designs, as Ghadames issues were primarily overprints.
- 3 Check for the year 1949, as this was the primary period of distinct issues for Ghadames.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ghadames stamps?
Ghadames stamps refer to postal issues from the Ghadames region, primarily during the French military administration of Fezzan-Ghadames after World War II. These were often French colonial stamps overprinted with 'GHADAMES' or 'FEZZAN GHADAMES'.
Are Ghadames stamps valuable?
Some Ghadames stamps can be quite valuable, especially complete sets, stamps on original covers, or those with rare overprint varieties. Common issues may be more affordable, typically ranging from €5 to €50, while rarer items can fetch hundreds of euros. Value depends heavily on condition and scarcity.
How can I identify Ghadames stamps?
To identify Ghadames stamps, look for the distinctive 'GHADAMES' or 'FEZZAN GHADAMES' overprints on French colonial stamps. Pay attention to the original design of the underlying stamp, as well as the specific overprint text and its placement. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list Ghadames stamps?
Ghadames stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, descriptions, and estimated values for various Ghadames postal issues.
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