Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika Stamps
Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika, located in East Africa, shared a unified postal administration under British colonial rule, initially established in the late 19th century. This joint postal service, often referred to as the East African Posts and Telecommunications Administration (EAP&T), issued stamps denominated in East African shillings and cents, frequently featuring English alongside Swahili. The unified entity persisted through the period leading up to independence for the three territories, with separate stamp issues commencing as each nation achieved self-governance, marking a significant transition from the shared colonial postal framework.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1935 – 1976
- Languages:
- English, Swahili
- Currency:
- KES
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika Stamp Series
King George V Pictorials (1935-1937)
A definitive series featuring local scenes, wildlife, and the portrait of King George V, issued to commemorate his Silver Jubilee and later as regular definitives.
King George VI Pictorials (1938-1954)
A long-running definitive series showcasing diverse East African landscapes, industries, and wildlife, with the portrait of King George VI.
Queen Elizabeth II Pictorials (1954-1963)
The first definitive series featuring Queen Elizabeth II, continuing the tradition of depicting local flora, fauna, and cultural scenes.
Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika are generally inexpensive, especially used. Mint condition sets and higher denominations, particularly from earlier King George V and VI issues, can fetch significantly higher prices. Errors, varieties, and early postal history items are highly sought after by specialists.
How to Identify Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'KENYA UGANDA TANGANYIKA' or 'EAST AFRICA AND UGANDA' on the stamps.
- 2 Denominations are typically in East African shillings and cents.
- 3 Stamps often feature portraits of British monarchs (George V, George VI, Elizabeth II) alongside local imagery.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika stamps?
Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika stamps were issued by a unified postal administration in British East Africa from 1935 until the individual countries gained independence. These stamps served the three territories under a single colonial postal entity, often featuring British monarchs and local East African scenes.
Are Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika stamps valuable?
The value of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika stamps varies. Common, used stamps are generally inexpensive, often ranging from $0.50 to $5. However, mint condition sets, higher denominations, early issues, and stamps with known errors or varieties can be quite valuable, potentially reaching hundreds of dollars or more. Condition plays a significant role in determining value.
How can I identify Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika stamps?
You can identify Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika stamps by looking for the inscription 'KENYA UGANDA TANGANYIKA' or 'EAST AFRICA AND UGANDA' on the stamp. They are denominated in East African shillings and cents and often feature British monarchs alongside local East African imagery. For precise identification and cataloging, use a stamp identifier app or consult a specialized stamp catalog.
Which catalogs list Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika stamps?
Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (Volume 2 for Africa), the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, and the Michel Ostafrika (East Africa) catalog.
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