Suez Canal Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Suez Canal Zone Stamps
The Suez Canal Zone, though not a sovereign nation, represented a unique postal entity situated in Northeast Africa and administered under a special status related to the canal's operation. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the British presence and the international administration of the vital waterway connecting the Mediterranean and Red Seas. Stamps issued for this zone primarily featured English and French, reflecting the international nature of the concession, and postal services ceased following the 1956 nationalization and subsequent political transitions.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Northeast Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1868 – 1868
- Languages:
- French, English
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
Suez Canal Zone stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Suez Canal Zone Stamp Series
Suez Canal Company Issue (1868)
The singular issue of stamps for the Suez Canal Company, featuring the head of Ferdinand de Lesseps.
issuer:suez-canal.series.items.1.name (issuer:suez-canal.series.items.1.period)
issuer:suez-canal.series.items.1.description
issuer:suez-canal.series.items.2.name (issuer:suez-canal.series.items.2.period)
issuer:suez-canal.series.items.2.description
Suez Canal Zone Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The 1868 Suez Canal stamps are generally considered scarce to rare. Their value varies significantly based on condition, cancellations, and specific varieties (e.g., paper types, shades). Unused examples are particularly sought after.
How to Identify Suez Canal Zone Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Suez Canal Zone stamps:
- 1 Look for the portrait of Ferdinand de Lesseps, the founder of the Suez Canal Company.
- 2 Stamps are inscribed 'CANAL DE SUEZ' and 'POSTES'.
- 3 Check for French currency denominations (e.g., 'Centimes').
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Suez Canal stamps?
Suez Canal stamps refer to the single issue of postage stamps released in 1868 by the Suez Canal Company for use in the Suez Canal Zone. These stamps were intended for postal services related to the canal's operations and featured the portrait of Ferdinand de Lesseps.
Are Suez Canal stamps valuable?
Yes, Suez Canal stamps are generally considered valuable due to their historical significance and rarity. Common examples can fetch €50 - €200, while rare varieties, especially in fine unused condition or with specific cancellations, can be worth €500 - €5,000 or more.
How can I identify Suez Canal stamps?
Suez Canal stamps are easily identifiable by the central vignette depicting Ferdinand de Lesseps, the inscription 'CANAL DE SUEZ' at the top, and 'POSTES' at the bottom, along with French currency denominations. For precise identification and authentication, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a philatelic expert.
Which catalogs list Suez Canal stamps?
Suez Canal stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under French Colonies or Egypt), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, values, and historical context.
Not sure if your stamp is from Suez Canal Zone?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store