Horta Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Horta (Portuguese Azores) Stamps
Horta is a historical port city located on the island of Faial in the Azores archipelago, a Portuguese autonomous region in the North Atlantic Ocean. While Horta itself did not issue stamps independently, its postal history is intrinsically linked to Portugal, reflecting its strategic importance as a mid-Atlantic coaling and communications station under Portuguese sovereignty. Stamps used in Horta would primarily feature Portuguese issues, often denominated in Portuguese currency, though the region's unique maritime history is sometimes reflected in thematic issues. The administration of postal services remained under the central Portuguese authority throughout the periods relevant to philately.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1892 – 1905
- Languages:
- Portuguese
- Currency:
- PTE
- Parent issuer:
- Portugal
Stamp Catalogs
Horta (Portuguese Azores) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Horta (Portuguese Azores) Stamp Series
King Carlos I Issues (1892-1905)
Stamps of Portugal overprinted 'HORTA' for local use, featuring King Carlos I.
Ceres Issues (Unoverprinted) (Post-1905)
While not specific to Horta, the Ceres series of Portugal would have been used in Horta after the overprinted issues ceased.
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Horta (Portuguese Azores) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific overprint varieties, and cancellations. Early issues with clear Horta cancellations are more desirable.
How to Identify Horta (Portuguese Azores) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Horta (Portuguese Azores) stamps:
- 1 Look for the 'HORTA' overprint on stamps of Portugal, typically in black ink.
- 2 Examine the design, which will feature Portuguese monarchs or national emblems of the period.
- 3 Check for cancellations that explicitly state 'HORTA' or 'FAIAL'.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Horta stamps?
Horta stamps are issues of Portugal that were overprinted with 'HORTA' for use in the city of Horta, located on the island of Faial in the Azores archipelago. These were used during a specific period when the city had its own postal administration under Portuguese sovereignty.
Are Horta stamps valuable?
The value of Horta stamps varies. Common issues in used condition might be worth a few euros, while rare varieties, errors, or stamps in pristine unused condition with specific overprints or cancellations can fetch hundreds of euros. Condition, rarity of the overprint, and clear cancellations are key factors.
How can I identify Horta stamps?
To identify Horta stamps, look for the 'HORTA' overprint on stamps originally issued by Portugal, primarily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The designs will be typical Portuguese issues of the era, often featuring King Carlos I. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog.
Which catalogs list Horta stamps?
Horta stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, usually within the sections dedicated to Portugal or Portuguese Colonies/Azores. Specialized Portuguese catalogs will also provide detailed listings.
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