Vietnam Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Vietnam Stamps
Vietnam, situated in Southeast Asia on the Indochinese Peninsula, has a complex postal history marked by French colonial rule, which established the initial modern postal system. The country's stamps frequently feature Vietnamese script, often alongside French during the colonial era and later reflecting periods of division between North and South Vietnam. Following reunification, the unified Socialist Republic of Vietnam standardized its postal administration, issuing definitive series that reflect national identity and historical milestones.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1976 – present
- Languages:
- Vietnamese
- Currency:
- VND
- issuer:vietnam.overview.parentIssuer:
- issuer:vietnam.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Vietnam stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Vietnam Stamp Series
Ho Chi Minh Commemoratives (Ongoing)
Numerous issues honoring the revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh, often featuring his portrait or significant events in his life.
Vietnamese Scenery and Culture (1976-Present)
Definitive and commemorative series depicting the natural beauty, traditional arts, architecture, and daily life of Vietnam.
Wildlife of Vietnam (1980s-Present)
Popular series showcasing the diverse flora and fauna of Vietnam, often featuring endangered species.
Vietnam Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common modern Vietnamese stamps are generally inexpensive. Earlier issues from the unified period, especially complete sets or errors, can command higher prices. Stamps from the pre-unification periods (North and South Vietnam) and French Indochina are often more valuable.
How to Identify Vietnam Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Vietnam stamps:
- 1 Look for Vietnamese script, often alongside English or French (especially on earlier issues).
- 2 Stamps issued after 1976 will typically bear the country name 'VIET NAM' or 'CỘNG HÒA XÃ HỘI CHỦ NGHĨA VIỆT NAM'.
- 3 Pay attention to the watermark (if any) and perforation, which can help distinguish between similar issues.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Vietnam stamps?
Vietnam stamps are postage stamps issued by the postal authorities of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam since its reunification in 1976. They reflect the nation's history, culture, and natural heritage, building upon a complex philatelic legacy from French colonial times and the divided North and South Vietnam.
Are Vietnam stamps valuable?
The value of Vietnam stamps varies significantly. Modern common issues are generally inexpensive. However, earlier stamps from the unified period, especially complete sets, first day covers, or those with printing errors, can be more valuable. Stamps from the pre-1976 periods (North Vietnam, South Vietnam, and French Indochina) often hold greater philatelic value due to their historical significance and rarity.
How can I identify Vietnam stamps?
You can identify Vietnam stamps by looking for the country name 'VIET NAM' or 'CỘNG HÒA XÃ HỘI CHỦ NGHĨA VIỆT NAM' in Vietnamese script. Visual cues often include Vietnamese cultural motifs, historical figures like Ho Chi Minh, and local scenery. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app that can scan and recognize stamps, or consult specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list Vietnam stamps?
Vietnam stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, Michel, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (for earlier issues related to French Indochina, and later for Vietnam itself). Specialized Vietnamese catalogs also exist for more detailed listings.
Not sure if your stamp is from Vietnam?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store