Martinique Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Martinique Stamps
Martinique is a Caribbean island territory located in the Lesser Antilles, part of the French overseas departments and regions. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to France, with stamps initially issued under French colonial administration and later as part of the unified French postal system, often bearing French inscriptions. The territory transitioned to using the Euro following France's adoption of the common European currency. As an integral part of France, Martinique's philatelic output reflects its status as an overseas department, maintaining French language and administrative continuity.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- Caribbean
- Issuing period:
- 1886 – 1947
- Languages:
- French
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
Martinique stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Martinique Stamp Series
Navigation and Commerce (1886-1900s)
Early definitive issues featuring allegorical figures representing navigation and commerce, common to many French colonies.
Type Blanc (1900s-1920s)
Definitive stamps with a standardized design, often overprinted 'MARTINIQUE' on French colonial issues.
Local Views and Personalities (1920s-1940s)
Pictorial issues depicting local landscapes, historical figures, and cultural scenes specific to Martinique.
Martinique Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, especially those with rare overprints or in pristine condition, can fetch higher prices. Later definitive sets are generally more affordable. Errors and varieties are highly sought after.
How to Identify Martinique Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Martinique stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'MARTINIQUE' or 'POSTES' with 'MARTINIQUE' below it.
- 2 Early issues often feature the 'Navigation and Commerce' design or are French colonial stamps overprinted 'MARTINIQUE'.
- 3 Later issues (1920s-1940s) frequently depict local scenes, flora, fauna, or historical figures of Martinique.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Martinique stamps?
Martinique stamps are postage stamps issued for the French Caribbean island territory of Martinique. They were initially issued under French colonial administration and later as part of the unified French postal system, reflecting its status as an overseas department. The earliest issues date back to 1886.
Are Martinique stamps valuable?
The value of Martinique stamps varies significantly. Common definitive issues from the mid-20th century are generally affordable, ranging from €0.50 to €10. However, early issues, especially those with rare overprints, specific cancellations, or in mint condition, can be quite valuable, reaching hundreds or even thousands of euros. Errors and varieties are also highly prized by collectors.
How can I identify Martinique stamps?
To identify Martinique stamps, look for the clear inscription 'MARTINIQUE' or 'POSTES' with 'MARTINIQUE' below it. Early issues often share designs with other French colonies, distinguished by the specific 'MARTINIQUE' overprint. Later pictorial issues feature local landmarks, people, and culture. For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized philatelic catalogs like Scott, Michel, or Stanley Gibbons.
Which catalogs list Martinique stamps?
Martinique stamps are comprehensively listed in all major international philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (often under 'French Colonies' or 'Martinique'), the Michel catalog (specifically Michel Frankreich und Übersee), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (though Martinique is French, it's often included in broader colonial listings or French area catalogs).
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