Goliad Provisional Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Goliad (Texas Provisional Issues) Stamps
Goliad is a historical region located within the present-day state of Texas, United States, and was not an independent sovereign entity with its own distinct postal administration. Its postal history is therefore intrinsically linked to the broader postal systems of the Republic of Texas and subsequently the United States, reflecting the administrative transitions of the region. Stamps issued for use in this area would primarily feature English text, consistent with the dominant language of the governing postal authorities during its significant historical periods. Any unique postal markings or provisional issues would relate to the turbulent early Texan period before full integration into the U.S. postal network.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
Goliad (Texas Provisional Issues) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Goliad (Texas Provisional Issues) Stamp Series
Goliad Provisional Issue (1861)
Handstamped provisional stamps issued locally in Goliad, Texas, due to the disruption of postal services at the outbreak of the American Civil War.
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Goliad (Texas Provisional Issues) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Goliad provisional issues are exceedingly rare and highly sought after by specialists in Confederate and Texas postal history. Their value depends heavily on condition, authenticity, and specific handstamp varieties. Most are unique or exist in very small numbers.
How to Identify Goliad (Texas Provisional Issues) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Goliad (Texas Provisional Issues) stamps:
- 1 Look for a handstamped 'PAID' or 'PAID 5' marking, often in red or blue ink, applied to covers (envelopes).
- 2 These are not adhesive stamps but rather postal markings on mail. They are typically found on covers originating from Goliad, Texas, during 1861.
- 3 Authenticity is paramount; expertization is essential due to their rarity and potential for forgery.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Goliad stamps?
Goliad 'stamps' refer to rare provisional postal markings used in Goliad, Texas, during 1861. These were not adhesive stamps but handstamped indications of postage paid, applied to mail due to the disruption of regular postal services at the start of the American Civil War. They are a significant part of Confederate and Texas postal history.
Are Goliad stamps valuable?
Yes, Goliad provisional issues are extremely valuable. They are among the rarest and most historically significant items in U.S. and Confederate postal history. Individual covers bearing these markings can fetch thousands to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on their condition, clarity of the marking, and provenance. Their rarity means there are no 'common' examples.
How can I identify Goliad stamps?
Goliad provisional issues are identified by specific handstamped markings, typically 'PAID' or 'PAID 5', applied to covers (envelopes) originating from Goliad, Texas, in 1861. These are not adhesive stamps. Due to their extreme rarity and value, expert authentication is crucial. For initial identification, you can use a stamp identifier app, but for definitive authentication, consult a recognized philatelic expert specializing in Confederate postal history.
Which catalogs list Goliad stamps?
Goliad provisional issues are primarily listed in specialized catalogs and references for U.S. and Confederate postal history, most notably the Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers. They are typically found under 'Confederate States of America - Postmasters' Provisionals' or similar sections. They are generally not listed in international catalogs like Michel or Stanley Gibbons as they are highly specialized local issues.
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