Penrhyn Island Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Penrhyn Island Stamps
Penrhyn Island, also known as Tongareva, is a remote coral atoll located in the northern Cook Islands group within Polynesia, Oceania. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to its administration under New Zealand, which managed the territory's mail services following its association with the Cook Islands. Stamps issued for Penrhyn typically feature English and sometimes Māori or Cook Islands Māori script, reflecting its historical ties to the British Commonwealth and subsequent New Zealand administration. The island's postal issues ceased when mail services were fully integrated into the general Cook Islands postal system.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Polynesia
- Issuing period:
- 1902 – 2022
- Languages:
- English, Māori
- Currency:
- NZD
- Parent issuer:
- New Zealand
Stamp Catalogs
Penrhyn Island stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Penrhyn Island Stamp Series
First Definitive Series (1902)
Overprinted New Zealand stamps, marking the island's initial postal identity.
King George V Issues (1920s-1930s)
Stamps featuring the monarch, common for British colonial territories, often overprinted 'Penrhyn'.
Pictorial Issues (1950s-1970s)
Stamps depicting local scenes, flora, fauna, and cultural elements, designed to promote the island.
Penrhyn Island Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early overprints and specific varieties, especially those in fine condition or on cover, command higher prices. Later issues are generally more common.
How to Identify Penrhyn Island Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Penrhyn Island stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Penrhyn Island' or 'Tongareva' inscriptions.
- 2 Many early issues are New Zealand stamps overprinted with 'Penrhyn Island'.
- 3 Later issues often feature unique designs depicting local scenery or culture.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Penrhyn Island stamps?
Penrhyn Island stamps are postage stamps issued for the remote coral atoll of Penrhyn (also known as Tongareva) in the northern Cook Islands. They reflect its postal history, primarily under New Zealand administration, before full integration into the Cook Islands postal system.
Are Penrhyn Island stamps valuable?
The value of Penrhyn Island stamps varies. Early overprinted issues and rare varieties, especially in good condition, can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to hundreds of dollars. More common later issues are generally affordable, typically under $10.
How can I identify Penrhyn Island stamps?
Penrhyn Island stamps can be identified by inscriptions such as 'Penrhyn Island' or 'Tongareva'. Many early stamps are New Zealand issues overprinted with the island's name. For precise identification and catalog numbers, use a stamp identifier app or consult specialized catalogs.
Which catalogs list Penrhyn Island stamps?
Penrhyn Island stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated values.
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