Macau Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Macau Stamps
Macau, a Special Administrative Region of China located on the southeastern coast of Asia, possesses a unique postal history rooted in its status as a Portuguese colony until its handover in 1999. During the colonial period, stamps prominently featured Portuguese iconography and were denominated in Portuguese currency, later transitioning to Pataca. The linguistic environment on its issues reflects this dual heritage, typically displaying text in Portuguese and often Chinese characters. This transition marks a significant shift in postal administration, moving from a European colonial power to integration within the People's Republic of China's administrative framework.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1884 – present
- Languages:
- Portuguese, Chinese
- Currency:
- MOP
- Parent issuer:
- Portugal
Stamp Catalogs
Macau stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Macau Stamp Series
King Carlos I Issues (1884-1910)
Early definitive stamps featuring the portrait of King Carlos I of Portugal, often overprinted.
Republic Issues (1911-1940s)
Stamps issued after the establishment of the Portuguese Republic, often with allegorical designs or portraits of national figures.
Provisional Government Issues (1940s-1950s)
Stamps issued during and after World War II, reflecting the changing political landscape and often featuring local scenes or industries.
Macau Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early colonial issues, especially those with rare overprints or in pristine condition, can fetch significant prices. Later definitive and commemorative sets are generally affordable, though complete sets or specific varieties can be more valuable. Errors and imperforates are highly sought after.
How to Identify Macau Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Macau stamps:
- 1 Look for 'MACAU' or 'MACAV' (older spelling) as the primary country name.
- 2 Early stamps often feature Portuguese monarchs or republican symbols.
- 3 Later issues frequently include both Portuguese and Chinese text.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Macau stamps?
Macau stamps are postage stamps issued by the postal administration of Macau, a Special Administrative Region of China. Historically, they were issued under Portuguese colonial rule and featured Portuguese iconography and currency. After the handover in 1999, they continued to be issued by Macau's postal service, often with bilingual text in Portuguese and Chinese.
Are Macau stamps valuable?
The value of Macau stamps varies widely. Early colonial issues, particularly those from the 19th and early 20th centuries, especially with rare overprints, errors, or in superb condition, can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to thousands of dollars. More recent definitive and commemorative stamps are generally affordable, often valued at a few cents to a few dollars, though complete sets or specific varieties can hold more value.
How can I identify Macau stamps?
You can identify Macau stamps by looking for the country name 'MACAU' or 'MACAV' (in older issues), often accompanied by text in Portuguese and later also in Chinese. Designs frequently reflect Portuguese heritage, local culture, or significant events. For precise identification and catalog numbers, use a stamp identifier app that can scan your stamp and provide detailed information.
Which catalogs list Macau stamps?
Macau stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Catalogue (especially for European and colonial issues), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps Catalogue, as well as specialized catalogs for Portuguese colonies.
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