Indochinese Post Canton Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Indochinese Post Canton Stamps
The Indochinese Post Canton was a specialized postal administration operating within French Indochina, situated in Southeast Asia. This entity managed postal services primarily for French citizens and interests in the region, operating under the authority of the French colonial government until the mid-20th century. Stamps issued by this administration predominantly feature French text, often alongside Vietnamese, Khmer, or Lao script, reflecting the linguistic diversity of the territories it served. Its existence marks a distinct period of French colonial postal organization before the eventual dissolution of French Indochina and the establishment of independent national postal systems.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1901 – 1919
- Languages:
- French, Vietnamese, Khmer, Lao
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
Indochinese Post Canton stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Indochinese Post Canton Stamp Series
General Issues (1901-1919)
Stamps of French Indochina overprinted 'CANTON' for use in the French Post Office in Canton, China.
Surcharged Issues (1901-1903)
Stamps with surcharges in local currency (e.g., '10 C. on 15 C.') for postal rate adjustments.
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Indochinese Post Canton Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value depends heavily on condition, specific overprint varieties, and whether the stamp is used or unused. Early issues and errors can be quite valuable.
How to Identify Indochinese Post Canton Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Indochinese Post Canton stamps:
- 1 Look for the overprint 'CANTON' on stamps originally issued for French Indochina.
- 2 Examine the base stamp design, which will typically feature French colonial motifs or portraits.
- 3 Check for French text, often alongside local scripts (Vietnamese, Khmer, Lao) on the base stamp.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Indochinese Post Canton stamps?
Indochinese Post Canton stamps were special postal issues used in the French Post Office in Canton (Guangzhou), China, during the early 20th century. These were typically stamps of French Indochina overprinted with 'CANTON' to signify their specific usage in this French colonial outpost within China.
Are Indochinese Post Canton stamps valuable?
The value of Indochinese Post Canton stamps varies significantly. Common issues in good condition can range from €5 to €50, while rarer varieties, such as specific overprint errors, early issues, or high denominations, can fetch hundreds or even thousands of Euros. Condition, rarity, and demand from collectors of French colonial or China foreign post offices are key factors.
How can I identify Indochinese Post Canton stamps?
To identify Indochinese Post Canton stamps, look for the distinctive 'CANTON' overprint on stamps that are clearly from French Indochina. These base stamps often feature French colonial designs and text. Using a stamp identifier app can help confirm the origin and specific catalog details of your stamps.
Which catalogs list Indochinese Post Canton stamps?
Indochinese Post Canton stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. They are typically found within the sections for French colonial issues or sometimes under China's foreign post offices, often as a sub-listing of French Indochina.
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