Mozambique Company Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Mozambique Company (Companhia de Moçambique) Stamps
The Mozambique Company, or Companhia de Moçambique, administered a vast concessionary territory in southeastern Africa, primarily encompassing what is now Mozambique south of the Zambezi River. This entity operated under a Portuguese royal charter, issuing its own distinctive postage stamps from 1898 until the territory was fully reintegrated into Portuguese East Africa in 1942. Stamps from this period predominantly feature Portuguese text and iconography related to the concessionary administration. The company's postal history is significant as it represents a unique period of private corporate control over postal services within a Portuguese colonial sphere before direct metropolitan administration resumed.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Southern Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1898 – 1941
- Languages:
- Portuguese
- Currency:
- Portuguese Escudo
- Parent issuer:
- Portugal
Stamp Catalogs
Mozambique Company (Companhia de Moçambique) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Mozambique Company (Companhia de Moçambique) Stamp Series
King Carlos I Issues (1898-1903)
The first stamps issued by the company, featuring the portrait of King Carlos I of Portugal, often overprinted with 'COMPANHIA DE MOÇAMBIQUE'.
Republica Issues (1911-1914)
Stamps of Portugal overprinted 'REPUBLICA' and 'COMPANHIA DE MOÇAMBIQUE', reflecting the change in government in Portugal.
Vasco da Gama Issues (1914-1920)
Definitive series featuring the explorer Vasco da Gama, often found with various overprints and surcharges.
Mozambique Company (Companhia de Moçambique) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available and inexpensive. Higher values and rare varieties, especially those with specific overprints, errors, or in pristine condition (mint never hinged), can fetch significant prices. Early issues and complete sets are generally more valuable.
How to Identify Mozambique Company (Companhia de Moçambique) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Mozambique Company (Companhia de Moçambique) stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'COMPANHIA DE MOÇAMBIQUE' or 'MOÇAMBIQUE' prominently displayed.
- 2 Stamps are predominantly in Portuguese, often featuring Portuguese monarchs, republican symbols, or allegorical figures like Ceres.
- 3 Many issues are overprinted or surcharged, indicating changes in postal rates or political status. Pay close attention to these overprints for identification and value.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mozambique Company stamps?
Mozambique Company stamps were issued by a private chartered company, Companhia de Moçambique, which administered a large concessionary territory in what is now Mozambique from 1898 to 1941. These stamps were used for postal services within their territory before it was fully integrated into Portuguese East Africa.
Are Mozambique Company stamps valuable?
The value of Mozambique Company stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for under a dollar, while rarer stamps, especially early issues, specific overprints, errors, or high-denomination definitives in fine condition, can be worth hundreds of dollars. Condition, rarity, and historical significance are key factors in determining value.
How can I identify Mozambique Company stamps?
You can identify Mozambique Company stamps by looking for the explicit inscription 'COMPANHIA DE MOÇAMBIQUE' or 'MOÇAMBIQUE' in Portuguese. They often feature portraits of Portuguese monarchs (e.g., King Carlos I), republican symbols, or the Ceres design. Many stamps are overprinted. For precise identification and catalog numbers, use a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list Mozambique Company stamps?
Mozambique Company stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated values.
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