Mobile, Alabama Postmaster Provisional Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Mobile, Alabama (Confederate Postmaster Provisionals) Stamps
Mobile, a historical port city located on the Gulf of Mexico in the southeastern United States, was briefly the capital of French Louisiana. Its postal history is primarily integrated within the broader framework of the United States Postal Service, though it experienced early independent postal operations during periods of shifting sovereignty. Stamps issued from this region predominantly feature English, reflecting its long-standing American identity, but earlier issues might show French influence. The city's significance as a major port has influenced its postal traffic throughout the 19th and 20th centuries under U.S. administration.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- Confederate States of America
Stamp Catalogs
Mobile, Alabama (Confederate Postmaster Provisionals) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Mobile, Alabama (Confederate Postmaster Provisionals) Stamp Series
Mobile Postmaster Provisionals (1861)
Handstamped or typographed provisional stamps issued by the Mobile postmaster during the early days of the Confederacy, before CSA general issues were available.
issuer:mobile.series.items.1.name (issuer:mobile.series.items.1.period)
issuer:mobile.series.items.1.description
issuer:mobile.series.items.2.name (issuer:mobile.series.items.2.period)
issuer:mobile.series.items.2.description
Mobile, Alabama (Confederate Postmaster Provisionals) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Mobile Postmaster Provisionals are highly sought after by collectors of Confederate States philately. Their value varies significantly based on type (handstamped vs. typographed), denomination, condition, and especially the presence of covers (envelopes). Genuine examples are rare and often command high prices.
How to Identify Mobile, Alabama (Confederate Postmaster Provisionals) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Mobile, Alabama (Confederate Postmaster Provisionals) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'PAID' or 'PAID 5' handstamps, or typographed designs with 'MOBILE' and 'PAID 5 CENTS'.
- 2 Examine the paper and printing method; genuine provisionals were often crudely produced.
- 3 Authentication by an expert is highly recommended due to the prevalence of forgeries and facsimiles.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mobile, Alabama stamps?
Mobile, Alabama stamps refer to the 'Postmaster Provisionals' issued by the postmaster of Mobile in 1861, at the outset of the American Civil War. These were temporary stamps created to facilitate mail service before the Confederate States of America could issue its own general postage stamps.
Are Mobile, Alabama stamps valuable?
Yes, Mobile, Alabama Postmaster Provisionals are considered very valuable, especially genuine examples on cover. Their rarity and historical significance make them highly desirable for collectors of Confederate philately. Prices can range from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the specific issue, condition, and authentication.
How can I identify Mobile, Alabama stamps?
Identifying Mobile, Alabama provisionals involves looking for specific handstamped or typographed designs, typically featuring 'PAID' or 'MOBILE PAID 5 CENTS'. Due to their rarity and the existence of forgeries, expert authentication is crucial. A stamp identifier app can help with initial recognition, but professional evaluation is essential for confirming authenticity and value.
Which catalogs list Mobile, Alabama stamps?
Mobile, Alabama Postmaster Provisionals are primarily listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, specifically within the Confederate States of America section, often under 'Postmasters' Provisionals'. They are not typically found in European catalogs like Michel or Stanley Gibbons, which focus on different regions.
Not sure if your stamp is from Mobile, Alabama (Confederate Postmaster Provisionals)?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store