Panama Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Panama Stamps
Panama is a transcontinental nation in Central America, bridging North and South America, whose postal history is deeply intertwined with its strategic importance as the site of the Panama Canal. Following independence from Gran Colombia in 1838, the territory remained under Colombian rule until 1903, when it became a US protectorate, significantly influencing early postal arrangements and the introduction of US currency. Panamanian stamps predominantly feature Spanish, reflecting the official language, though early issues often bear inscriptions in both Spanish and English due to the American presence. The country's postal administration has navigated periods of intense international influence, particularly concerning the Canal Zone, before achieving full sovereignty over its postal services.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- Central America
- Issuing period:
- 1878 – present
- Languages:
- Spanish, English
- Currency:
- PAB
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Stamp Catalogs
Panama stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Panama Stamp Series
Panama Canal Construction Issues (Early 20th Century)
Stamps depicting the construction and completion of the Panama Canal, often overprinted or featuring canal-related imagery.
Map of Panama Issues (Various)
Series featuring maps of Panama, highlighting its strategic location and the Canal.
National Heroes and Events (Mid-20th Century onwards)
Commemorative issues honoring Panamanian historical figures, independence, and national achievements.
Panama Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, particularly those related to the Canal Zone or with rare overprints, can be quite valuable. Common definitive stamps from later periods are generally inexpensive. Condition plays a significant role in value.
How to Identify Panama Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Panama stamps:
- 1 Look for 'PANAMA' or 'REPUBLICA DE PANAMA' inscription.
- 2 Early issues may have 'COLOMBIA' overprinted with 'PANAMA' or 'CANAL ZONE'.
- 3 Check for bilingual inscriptions (Spanish and English) on some early issues due to American influence.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Panama stamps?
Panama stamps are postage stamps issued by the Republic of Panama, a transcontinental nation in Central America. Their postal history is closely linked to the Panama Canal and its strategic importance, with early issues often reflecting American influence.
Are Panama stamps valuable?
The value of Panama stamps varies widely. Common definitive stamps are generally inexpensive, ranging from $0.10 to $5. However, rare early issues, especially those related to the Panama Canal, provisional issues, or stamps with specific overprints, can be quite valuable, fetching anywhere from $50 to over $5,000, depending on rarity and condition.
How can I identify Panama stamps?
To identify Panama stamps, look for the country name 'PANAMA' or 'REPUBLICA DE PANAMA'. Early issues might also bear 'COLOMBIA' overprinted with 'PANAMA' or 'CANAL ZONE'. Many early stamps feature bilingual inscriptions (Spanish and English). For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app which can scan your stamp and provide detailed information.
Which catalogs list Panama stamps?
Panama stamps are extensively listed in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel catalogue, and the Stanley Gibbons catalogue. These resources provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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