Mafia Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Mafia Island Stamps
Mafia is an island located off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa, historically falling under German and later British colonial administration as part of the Zanzibar Protectorate. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the broader postal systems of German East Africa and the British East African territories, with stamps often reflecting colonial authority and usage within the wider postal network of the region. The primary language appearing on these issues would typically be English, reflecting British administrative control, though earlier issues might show German influence. The island's postal identity was eventually absorbed into the unified postal system of independent Tanzania.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1915 – 1915
- Languages:
- English, German
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- German East Africa
Stamp Catalogs
Mafia Island stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Mafia Island Stamp Series
German East Africa Overprints (1915)
Stamps of German East Africa overprinted 'G.E.A.' and 'Mafia' by British forces during World War I.
Zanzibar Overprints (1915)
Stamps of Zanzibar overprinted 'G.E.A.' and 'Mafia' for use on the island after British occupation.
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Mafia Island Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Mafia stamps is primarily driven by the scarcity of the overprints and the condition of the underlying German East Africa or Zanzibar stamps. Genuine overprints are highly sought after by collectors of colonial and military issues. Forgeries exist, so expert authentication is crucial for higher-value items.
How to Identify Mafia Island Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Mafia Island stamps:
- 1 Look for 'G.E.A.' and 'Mafia' overprints, typically in black, on stamps of German East Africa (Yachts series) or Zanzibar.
- 2 Pay attention to the specific type and font of the overprint, as variations and forgeries are known.
- 3 Examine the underlying stamp for its original country of issue (German East Africa or Zanzibar) and denomination.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mafia stamps?
Mafia stamps refer to postage stamps issued for use on Mafia Island, off the coast of Tanzania, during a brief period of British occupation in 1915. These were primarily existing stamps of German East Africa or Zanzibar overprinted with 'G.E.A.' (German East Africa) and 'Mafia' by the British forces.
Are Mafia stamps valuable?
Yes, Mafia stamps can be quite valuable, especially genuine examples of the overprinted issues. Their value depends heavily on the specific overprint, the condition of the stamp, and the underlying stamp it was applied to. Common examples might fetch $10-$50, while rare varieties or high-denomination overprints can command hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
How can I identify Mafia stamps?
To identify Mafia stamps, look for the distinctive 'G.E.A.' and 'Mafia' overprints on stamps originally issued by German East Africa (often the 'Yachts' series) or Zanzibar. Pay close attention to the details of the overprint, as forgeries are known. A stamp identifier app can assist in verifying the underlying stamp and potentially the overprint, but expert philatelic opinion is recommended for valuable items.
Which catalogs list Mafia stamps?
Mafia stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott (under German East Africa or British Occupation issues), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values for the different Mafia overprints.
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