Majunga (Mahajanga) Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Majunga (Mahajanga) Stamps
Majunga, known today as Mahajanga, is a historical port city located on the northwestern coast of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to French colonial administration, as Madagascar was a French colony and later a French protectorate, leading to stamps often bearing French inscriptions alongside Malagasy. The region experienced significant administrative changes following Madagascar's independence in 1960, which altered the issuing authority and subsequent stamp designs. The linguistic environment on its postal material primarily reflects French and Malagasy.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1895 – 1895
- Languages:
- French, Malagasy
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
Majunga (Mahajanga) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Majunga (Mahajanga) Stamp Series
General Issues (1895)
Stamps of French Colonies overprinted 'MAJUNGA' with value in centimes and francs, featuring the 'Navigation and Commerce' design.
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Majunga (Mahajanga) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Majunga stamps is primarily driven by their rarity, condition, and the specific overprint variety. Early colonial issues, especially those with clear overprints and good centering, command higher prices. Used copies are often less valuable than unused, unless they bear rare cancellations.
How to Identify Majunga (Mahajanga) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Majunga (Mahajanga) stamps:
- 1 Look for the 'MAJUNGA' overprint, typically in black, on stamps of French Colonies.
- 2 Verify the underlying stamp design, which is usually the 'Navigation and Commerce' series.
- 3 Examine the denomination and color of the underlying stamp, as these were consistent with French colonial issues.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Majunga stamps?
Majunga stamps are postal issues from the French colonial period in Madagascar, specifically for the port city of Majunga (now Mahajanga). These stamps were typically French Colonies issues overprinted with 'MAJUNGA' to indicate their specific use in that territory during a brief period in 1895.
Are Majunga stamps valuable?
Yes, some Majunga stamps can be valuable, particularly those in fine condition, with clear overprints, or rare varieties. While common examples might be in the $5-$50 range, rarer issues or those with specific errors or cancellations can fetch hundreds of dollars. Their value is influenced by their historical significance as a short-lived colonial issue.
How can I identify Majunga stamps?
To identify Majunga stamps, look for the distinct 'MAJUNGA' overprint on stamps originally issued for French Colonies, often featuring the 'Navigation and Commerce' design. Pay attention to the clarity and type of the overprint. For precise identification and authentication, using a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app can be very helpful.
Which catalogs list Majunga stamps?
Majunga stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott (under French Colonies or Madagascar), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, issue dates, and estimated values, which are essential for collectors.
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