Upper Volta Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Upper Volta Stamps
Upper Volta, now known as Burkina Faso, was a landlocked nation situated in West Africa, formerly part of French West Africa. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to France, with stamps initially issued under French colonial administration and later as an independent republic following its independence in 1960. The primary language appearing on its postal issues was French, reflecting its colonial heritage. The country underwent significant political transitions, including a name change in 1984, which marked a distinct break in its philatelic chronology.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- West Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1920 – 1984
- Languages:
- French
- Currency:
- XOF
- Parent issuer:
- French West Africa
Stamp Catalogs
Upper Volta stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Upper Volta Stamp Series
Colonial Issues (French West Africa) (1920-1959)
Stamps issued under French colonial administration, often overprinted or featuring designs common to other French West African territories.
Independence Issues (1960-1965)
The first stamps issued by the newly independent Republic of Upper Volta, often depicting national symbols, leaders, or local flora and fauna.
Definitive Series (1960s-1980s)
Long-running series featuring local scenes, industries, and cultural elements, often with multiple printings and color variations.
Upper Volta Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps from Upper Volta are generally inexpensive, especially later definitive issues. Earlier colonial issues, particularly those with specific overprints or errors, and certain commemorative sets in fine condition can command higher prices. Mint never hinged (MNH) condition significantly increases value.
How to Identify Upper Volta Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Upper Volta stamps:
- 1 Look for the country name 'HAUTE-VOLTA' or 'REPUBLIQUE DE HAUTE-VOLTA' in French.
- 2 Early issues may be overprints on French West Africa stamps.
- 3 Stamps often feature imagery related to West African culture, wildlife, or French colonial themes.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Upper Volta stamps?
Upper Volta stamps are postage stamps issued by the former French colony and later independent republic of Upper Volta, located in West Africa. The country was renamed Burkina Faso in 1984, marking the end of its philatelic era under the name Upper Volta.
Are Upper Volta stamps valuable?
The value of Upper Volta stamps varies. Many common issues, especially later definitives, are inexpensive, ranging from €0.10 to €2. However, earlier colonial issues, stamps with specific overprints, errors, or certain commemorative sets in pristine condition can be quite valuable, potentially reaching €50 to €500 or more.
How can I identify Upper Volta stamps?
You can identify Upper Volta stamps by looking for the country name 'HAUTE-VOLTA' or 'REPUBLIQUE DE HAUTE-VOLTA' printed on them, typically in French. Early issues might be overprints on stamps of French West Africa. For precise identification and catalog numbers, you can use a stamp identifier app or consult specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list Upper Volta stamps?
Upper Volta stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel catalog (especially Michel Afrika), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (for earlier issues) or their specialized Africa volumes.
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