New Orleans Provisional Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About New Orleans (Confederate Provisional) Stamps
New Orleans, while a major city, is not a sovereign stamp-issuing entity; however, its postal history is deeply rooted in the North American continent, specifically the Southern United States. As a former French and Spanish colony before becoming part of the United States, its early postal administration reflects these transitions, eventually falling under the U.S. Post Office Department. Stamps issued for use in New Orleans would primarily feature English, though early provisional issues might reflect the city's bilingual heritage. The city's significant role as a major port city meant its postal operations were central to early American postal expansion and international mail exchange.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- Southern United States
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- Confederate States of America
Stamp Catalogs
New Orleans (Confederate Provisional) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular New Orleans (Confederate Provisional) Stamp Series
New Orleans Provisional Issue (1861)
Stamps issued by the New Orleans postmaster during the early days of the American Civil War, before Confederate stamps became widely available. These are highly sought after by collectors.
issuer:new-orleans.series.items.1.name (issuer:new-orleans.series.items.1.period)
issuer:new-orleans.series.items.1.description
issuer:new-orleans.series.items.2.name (issuer:new-orleans.series.items.2.period)
issuer:new-orleans.series.items.2.description
New Orleans (Confederate Provisional) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The New Orleans provisional stamps are considered rare and valuable due to their limited production and historical significance. Condition, cancellations, and specific varieties (e.g., paper type, shade) significantly impact value. Forgeries exist, so expert authentication is crucial.
How to Identify New Orleans (Confederate Provisional) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying New Orleans (Confederate Provisional) stamps:
- 1 Look for the 'POST OFFICE' inscription at the top and 'NEW ORLEANS' at the bottom, with the denomination in the center.
- 2 The stamps were issued in 2-cent and 5-cent denominations, typically printed in blue or red-brown.
- 3 Examine the paper and printing method; these were locally produced and often show characteristics of provisional issues.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are New Orleans stamps?
New Orleans stamps refer to the provisional postage stamps issued by the New Orleans postmaster in 1861, during the early stages of the American Civil War. These were local issues created to maintain postal service after Louisiana seceded from the Union but before the Confederate States of America had their own stamps widely distributed.
Are New Orleans stamps valuable?
Yes, New Orleans provisional stamps are generally quite valuable due to their historical significance, rarity, and limited production. Common examples can fetch hundreds of dollars, while rare varieties or those in exceptional condition can command thousands. Their value is highly dependent on factors like denomination, color, condition, and cancellation.
How can I identify New Orleans stamps?
New Orleans provisional stamps are identifiable by their distinctive design featuring 'POST OFFICE' at the top, 'NEW ORLEANS' at the bottom, and the denomination (2 or 5 cents) in the center. They were typically printed in blue or red-brown. Due to their value, it's recommended to use a stamp identifier app or consult a philatelic expert for authentication and precise identification.
Which catalogs list New Orleans stamps?
The primary catalog for New Orleans provisional stamps is the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, where they are listed under the Confederate States of America or U.S. Locals. Other specialized catalogs focusing on U.S. or Confederate philately may also provide detailed listings.
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