Tanganyika Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Tanganyika Stamps
Tanganyika, located in East Africa, was a significant territory administered primarily under British mandate and trusteeship following World War I. Its postal history is marked by issues under German East Africa preceding the war, followed by British colonial administration, often sharing franking privileges with the East African Postal Union. Stamps from this period predominantly feature English, reflecting the official language of governance, until the territory united with Zanzibar to form Tanzania in 1964. This transition marked the end of Tanganyika's distinct postal entity, integrating its services into the new national system.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1916 – 1962
- Languages:
- English, Swahili
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Tanganyika stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Tanganyika Stamp Series
King George V Issues (1922-1937)
Definitive series featuring the portrait of King George V, often with local scenes or symbols, overprinted 'TANGANYIKA'.
King George VI Issues (1938-1952)
Definitive stamps depicting King George VI, continuing the tradition of colonial issues with various designs and denominations.
Queen Elizabeth II Issues (1953-1962)
The final definitive series for Tanganyika, featuring Queen Elizabeth II, before independence and union with Zanzibar.
Tanganyika Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Tanganyika stamps, especially lower denominations in used condition, are generally inexpensive. Higher denominations, mint condition sets, and specific varieties or errors can fetch significantly higher prices. Early issues and those with specific overprints are often more sought after.
How to Identify Tanganyika Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Tanganyika stamps:
- 1 Look for the country name 'TANGANYIKA' prominently displayed on the stamp.
- 2 Many early issues are overprints on stamps of East Africa and Uganda Protectorates or Kenya, Uganda, Tanganyika.
- 3 Examine the monarch's portrait (George V, George VI, Elizabeth II) to help date the stamp.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tanganyika stamps?
Tanganyika stamps are postage stamps issued by the British-administered territory of Tanganyika in East Africa from 1916 until its independence and union with Zanzibar in 1962. They reflect the colonial period, often featuring British monarchs and local imagery.
Are Tanganyika stamps valuable?
The value of Tanganyika stamps varies widely. Common, used stamps are generally inexpensive, often ranging from $0.50 to $10. However, complete sets in mint condition, higher denominations, early issues, and stamps with specific overprints or errors can be quite valuable, potentially reaching hundreds of dollars or more.
How can I identify Tanganyika stamps?
You can identify Tanganyika stamps by looking for the explicit 'TANGANYIKA' inscription. Many early issues are overprints on stamps of other East African territories. Checking the monarch's portrait (King George V, King George VI, or Queen Elizabeth II) helps in dating. For precise identification and catalog numbers, a stamp identifier app or a specialized catalog is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Tanganyika stamps?
Tanganyika stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott (USA), Michel (Germany), and Stanley Gibbons (UK). These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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