Middle Congo Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Middle Congo Stamps
Middle Congo, corresponding to the modern Republic of the Congo, is situated in West Central Africa. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to French colonial administration, with stamps initially issued under the general issues for French Colonies before receiving distinctive overprints or issues. The primary language appearing on these postal materials is French, reflecting the colonial linguistic legacy. The territory transitioned through various administrative phases, including its status as part of French Equatorial Africa, before achieving independence in 1960, which marked a significant shift in its philatelic output.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Central Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1907 – 1933
- Languages:
- French
- Currency:
- XOF
- Parent issuer:
- French Colonies
Stamp Catalogs
Middle Congo stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Middle Congo Stamp Series
Navigation and Commerce (1907-1912)
General issues for French Colonies overprinted 'MOYEN CONGO' or 'CONGO FRANÇAIS' with various values and colors, depicting allegorical figures of Navigation and Commerce.
Colonial Type (1910-1922)
Definitive issues featuring local scenes, portraits, or allegories, often with the territory's name. These were common designs used across French colonies.
French Equatorial Africa Issues (1924-1933)
Stamps issued for the entire federation of French Equatorial Africa, which included Middle Congo. These often featured a common design with the federation's name.
Middle Congo Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available and inexpensive. Scarcer issues include early overprints, high values, and stamps with plate flaws or rare cancellations. Condition significantly impacts value.
How to Identify Middle Congo Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Middle Congo stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'MOYEN CONGO' or 'CONGO FRANÇAIS' (French Congo) on the stamps.
- 2 Early issues are often overprints on general French Colonies stamps, so identifying the base stamp is also key.
- 3 Later issues (from 1924) may bear 'AFRIQUE ÉQUATORIALE FRANÇAISE' (French Equatorial Africa) as Middle Congo was part of this federation.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Middle Congo stamps?
Middle Congo stamps are postage stamps issued for the French colonial territory of Middle Congo, which corresponds to the modern-day Republic of the Congo. These stamps were used from 1907 until 1933, when the territory's postal services were integrated into French Equatorial Africa.
Are Middle Congo stamps valuable?
The value of Middle Congo stamps varies. Many common issues are inexpensive, ranging from under a dollar to a few dollars. However, certain early overprints, high-denomination stamps, and stamps with specific varieties or rare cancellations can be quite valuable, potentially fetching hundreds of dollars or more. Condition is a major factor in determining value.
How can I identify Middle Congo stamps?
To identify Middle Congo stamps, look for clear inscriptions such as 'MOYEN CONGO' or 'CONGO FRANÇAIS'. Early stamps are often general French Colonies issues with these overprints. Later issues may be part of the French Equatorial Africa series. For precise identification and catalog numbers, you can use a stamp identifier app or consult specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list Middle Congo stamps?
Middle Congo stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel catalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, among others. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated values.
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