Mayotte Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Mayotte Stamps
Mayotte is an overseas department and region of France located in the Indian Ocean, forming part of the Comoros archipelago in Eastern Africa. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to France, with stamps initially issued under French colonial administration and continuing under the French postal system following the island's decision to remain with France when the rest of the Comoros gained independence. Stamps are predominantly denominated in Euros and feature French language text, reflecting its current status as an integral part of the French Republic. The transition from a French territory to an overseas department in 2011 solidified its administrative and postal integration with mainland France.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Eastern Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1892 – 2011
- Languages:
- French
- Currency:
- EUR
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
Mayotte stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Mayotte Stamp Series
Navigation and Commerce (1892-1900s)
Early issues for Mayotte, featuring the iconic 'Navigation and Commerce' design common to many French colonies, overprinted 'MAYOTTE'.
Mayotte and Dependencies (1912-1950s)
Stamps issued for Mayotte and its dependencies, often featuring local scenes, flora, and fauna, reflecting the island's unique identity within the French colonial system.
Postage Due Stamps (Early 20th Century)
Specific issues for postage due, indicating underpaid mail, which are often collected as a distinct category.
Mayotte Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, especially those with rare cancellations or errors, can command significant prices. Later definitive issues are generally more affordable, though complete sets or specific commemorative issues can be valuable. Condition plays a crucial role in valuation.
How to Identify Mayotte Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Mayotte stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'MAYOTTE' or 'MAYOTTE ET DEPENDANCES'.
- 2 Stamps are predominantly in French and often feature French colonial designs or local imagery.
- 3 Early issues (pre-1912) are often overprinted 'MAYOTTE' on general French colonial stamps.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mayotte stamps?
Mayotte stamps are postage stamps issued for the island of Mayotte, an overseas department and region of France in the Indian Ocean. Their postal history began under French colonial administration in 1892 and continued until 2011 when its postal services fully integrated with mainland France.
Are Mayotte stamps valuable?
The value of Mayotte stamps varies significantly. Early colonial issues, especially those with specific overprints, rare cancellations, or in pristine condition, can be quite valuable, ranging from €50 to over €500. Later definitive and commemorative issues are generally more common and affordable, typically ranging from €0.50 to €10, though complete sets or specific themes can fetch higher prices.
How can I identify Mayotte stamps?
You can identify Mayotte stamps by looking for the inscription 'MAYOTTE' or 'MAYOTTE ET DEPENDANCES'. The language used is predominantly French. Early issues often feature designs common to other French colonies but with a specific Mayotte overprint. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a philatelic catalog.
Which catalogs list Mayotte stamps?
Mayotte stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issue dates, designs, varieties, and estimated values for collectors.
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