Portuguese Congo Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Portuguese Congo Stamps
Portuguese Congo, officially known as Angola, is a nation situated on the southwestern coast of Africa. As a long-standing Portuguese colony, its postal history is intrinsically linked to the administration of Lisbon, with stamps primarily denominated in Portuguese currency and featuring Portuguese inscriptions until independence in 1975. The territory's postal system operated under the Portuguese colonial administration, often sharing designs with other Portuguese overseas provinces before adopting its own distinct issues. This region experienced significant administrative changes, culminating in the transition to the independent Republic of Angola, which subsequently altered the philatelic landscape.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Central Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1894 – 1915
- Languages:
- Portuguese
- Currency:
- PTE
- Parent issuer:
- Portugal
Stamp Catalogs
Portuguese Congo stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Portuguese Congo Stamp Series
King Carlos I Issues (1894-1903)
The initial stamps for Portuguese Congo featuring King Carlos I, often sharing designs with other Portuguese colonies but overprinted or inscribed for the territory.
Republica Issues (1910-1915)
Stamps issued after the establishment of the Portuguese Republic, typically featuring allegorical figures or republican symbols, often overprinted 'REPUBLICA'.
Vasco da Gama Commemoratives (1898)
A popular commemorative series issued across Portuguese colonies to mark the 400th anniversary of Vasco da Gama's discovery of the sea route to India.
Portuguese Congo Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific issue, and overprints. Early issues and high denominations in good condition tend to be more valuable. Errors and varieties are highly sought after.
How to Identify Portuguese Congo Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Portuguese Congo stamps:
- 1 Look for 'CONGO PORTUGUEZ' or 'CONGO' inscriptions, often alongside 'COLONIAS' or 'PORTUGAL'.
- 2 Stamps are typically denominated in Reis (until 1911) or Centavos/Escudos (after 1911).
- 3 Many stamps are overprinted, indicating specific colonial usage or changes in government (e.g., 'REPUBLICA').
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Portuguese Congo stamps?
Portuguese Congo stamps are postage stamps issued for the Portuguese colonial territory of Congo, which was administered as part of Angola, between 1894 and 1915. These stamps reflect the postal history of the region under Portuguese rule.
Are Portuguese Congo stamps valuable?
The value of Portuguese Congo stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rarer stamps, especially early issues, high denominations, stamps with specific overprints, or those in pristine condition, can fetch hundreds of euros. Factors like rarity, condition, and historical significance determine their market value.
How can I identify Portuguese Congo stamps?
You can identify Portuguese Congo stamps by looking for inscriptions like 'CONGO PORTUGUEZ' or 'CONGO', often alongside 'COLONIAS' or 'PORTUGAL'. They are typically denominated in Reis or Centavos/Escudos. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly identify and learn more about your Portuguese Congo stamps.
Which catalogs list Portuguese Congo stamps?
Portuguese Congo stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, designs, denominations, and estimated values for collectors.
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