Ruanda-Urundi Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Ruanda-Urundi Stamps
Ruanda-Urundi was a territory in Central Africa, administered by Belgium following its mandate from the League of Nations and later the United Nations. Its postal history spans the period of Belgian colonial rule, with stamps typically inscribed in French, reflecting the official language of the administration. The territory issued definitive and commemorative stamps under this joint administration until its dissolution into two separate sovereign nations, Rwanda and Burundi, in 1962. This transition marked the end of the unified postal entity and the beginning of independent postal administrations for each successor state.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1924 – 1961
- Languages:
- French
- Currency:
- BEF
- Parent issuer:
- Belgium
Stamp Catalogs
Ruanda-Urundi stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Ruanda-Urundi Stamp Series
King Albert I (1924-1931)
The first definitive series for Ruanda-Urundi, featuring King Albert I of Belgium, often overprinted on Belgian Congo stamps.
Leopold III (1932-1951)
Definitive issues depicting King Leopold III, including various designs and values, some with surcharges.
Fauna and Flora (1953-1960)
A popular and colorful series illustrating the diverse wildlife and plant life of the territory, highly sought after by thematic collectors.
Ruanda-Urundi Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are generally inexpensive. Rarer issues include early overprints, high values, and specific varieties or errors. Condition significantly impacts value, with mint never-hinged examples fetching higher prices.
How to Identify Ruanda-Urundi Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Ruanda-Urundi stamps:
- 1 Stamps are typically inscribed 'RUANDA-URUNDI' and often 'BELGIQUE' or 'BELGIE' (Belgium).
- 2 Many early issues are overprints on stamps of Belgian Congo.
- 3 The official language of the administration, French, is prominent on the stamps.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ruanda-Urundi stamps?
Ruanda-Urundi stamps are postage stamps issued for the territory of Ruanda-Urundi, which was administered by Belgium under League of Nations and later United Nations mandates from 1924 until its independence as Rwanda and Burundi in 1962. These stamps reflect the Belgian colonial period and are often inscribed in French.
Are Ruanda-Urundi stamps valuable?
The value of Ruanda-Urundi stamps varies. Common issues can be found for under a dollar, while rarer stamps, such as early overprints, high denominations, or specific varieties, can fetch hundreds of dollars. Factors like condition, rarity, and demand from collectors significantly influence their market price.
How can I identify Ruanda-Urundi stamps?
You can identify Ruanda-Urundi stamps by looking for the inscription 'RUANDA-URUNDI' on the stamp. Many early issues are also overprinted on stamps originally issued for Belgian Congo. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly identify specific issues and learn more about them.
Which catalogs list Ruanda-Urundi stamps?
Ruanda-Urundi stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, designs, varieties, and estimated values for collectors.
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