Río de Oro Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Río de Oro Stamps
Rio de Oro, a historical territory located in the northwestern region of the Iberian Peninsula, was geographically situated in what is now modern-day Spain and Portugal. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the evolving political boundaries of the Iberian kingdoms, primarily Castille and later Spain, before the definitive establishment of modern national postal systems. Stamps issued from this area, when it functioned as a distinct administrative entity, would have reflected the dominant Iberian languages, most notably Spanish or Portuguese, depending on the prevailing political control at the time of issuance. The territory's administrative status shifted significantly through medieval and early modern periods, influencing the standardization and issuance of postal documentation.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- North Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1905 – 1921
- Languages:
- Spanish
- Currency:
- Spanish Peseta
- Parent issuer:
- Spain
Stamp Catalogs
Río de Oro stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Río de Oro Stamp Series
Alfonso XIII Definitive Series (1905-1921)
The initial definitive series featuring King Alfonso XIII of Spain, overprinted 'RIO DE ORO' or 'SAHARA OCCIDENTAL' and surcharged with new values. These are key issues for the territory.
Provisional Issues (1909-1910)
Various Spanish stamps overprinted or surcharged locally due to shortages, often exhibiting interesting varieties in typography and color.
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Río de Oro Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are affordable, especially those with minor overprint varieties. Rare stamps include specific overprint errors, high values, and certain provisional issues. Condition significantly impacts value.
How to Identify Río de Oro Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Río de Oro stamps:
- 1 Look for the overprint 'RIO DE ORO' or 'SAHARA OCCIDENTAL' on Spanish stamps.
- 2 Pay attention to the specific type and color of the overprint, as varieties exist.
- 3 Examine the base stamp for the portrait of King Alfonso XIII or other Spanish definitive designs.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Río de Oro stamps?
Río de Oro stamps are postage stamps issued for the Spanish colonial territory of Río de Oro, located in what is now Western Sahara. These stamps were primarily Spanish stamps overprinted with 'RIO DE ORO' or 'SAHARA OCCIDENTAL' and sometimes surcharged with new values, used between 1905 and 1921.
Are Río de Oro stamps valuable?
The value of Río de Oro stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rare overprints, errors, high denominations, or specific provisional issues can fetch hundreds or even thousands of euros. Condition is a major factor in determining value.
How can I identify Río de Oro stamps?
To identify Río de Oro stamps, look for the distinctive overprint 'RIO DE ORO' or 'SAHARA OCCIDENTAL' on Spanish stamps, often featuring King Alfonso XIII. Compare your stamps with catalog images and pay attention to overprint details and surcharges. A stamp identifier app can also help with quick identification.
Which catalogs list Río de Oro stamps?
Río de Oro stamps are extensively listed in major stamp catalogs, including Scott (under Spanish Sahara or Spanish Colonies), Michel (under Spanische Kolonien), and Stanley Gibbons (under Spanish Colonies or Spanish West Africa).
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