West New Guinea Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About West New Guinea (Dutch Administration) Stamps
West New Guinea, encompassing the western half of the island of New Guinea in Oceania, was administered by the Netherlands until 1963. Its postal history is characterized by issues under Dutch colonial rule, often featuring bilingual inscriptions in Dutch and local languages or Malay. Following the transfer of administration to Indonesia in 1963, the territory, known as Irian Barat, saw its Dutch-era issues superseded by Indonesian postal authority. The stamps from this transitional period reflect the complex geopolitical shifts in Southeast Asia during the mid-20th century.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Melanesia
- Issuing period:
- 1950 – 1963
- Languages:
- Dutch, Malay, Indonesian
- Currency:
- NLG
- Parent issuer:
- Netherlands
Stamp Catalogs
West New Guinea (Dutch Administration) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular West New Guinea (Dutch Administration) Stamp Series
First Definitive Series (1950)
The initial set of definitive stamps issued under Dutch administration, often depicting local flora, fauna, and cultural motifs.
UNTEA Overprints (1962-1963)
Stamps overprinted 'UNTEA' (United Nations Temporary Executive Authority) during the transitional period of UN administration.
New Guinea Definitives (1954-1962)
Further definitive issues featuring portraits of Queen Juliana and various local scenes, reflecting the ongoing Dutch presence.
West New Guinea (Dutch Administration) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available. Rarer issues include specific overprints, errors, and high-value definitives, especially those in fine used or mint condition. The UNTEA overprints are particularly sought after by collectors.
How to Identify West New Guinea (Dutch Administration) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying West New Guinea (Dutch Administration) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'NEDERLANDS NIEUW GUINEA' or 'NED. NIEUW GUINEA' inscriptions.
- 2 Many stamps feature bilingual inscriptions in Dutch and Malay.
- 3 Pay attention to overprints, especially 'UNTEA' for the transitional period.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are West New Guinea stamps?
West New Guinea stamps refer to the postal issues from the western half of the island of New Guinea, administered by the Netherlands from 1950 until 1963. These stamps reflect the Dutch colonial period and the subsequent transition under the United Nations Temporary Executive Authority (UNTEA) before becoming part of Indonesia.
Are West New Guinea stamps valuable?
The value of West New Guinea stamps varies. Common issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from $0.50 to $5. However, certain definitive issues, high-value stamps, errors, and especially the 'UNTEA' overprints can be quite valuable, fetching prices from $50 to over $500, depending on condition and rarity.
How can I identify West New Guinea stamps?
To identify West New Guinea stamps, look for inscriptions like 'NEDERLANDS NIEUW GUINEA' or 'NED. NIEUW GUINEA'. Many stamps also feature bilingual text in Dutch and Malay. The presence of 'UNTEA' overprints is a key identifier for the 1962-1963 transitional period. For precise identification and cataloging, consider using a stamp identifier app that can scan and recognize these issues.
Which catalogs list West New Guinea stamps?
West New Guinea stamps are well-documented in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them listed in Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons catalogs, typically under 'Netherlands New Guinea' or 'West New Guinea'.
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