Western Sahara Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Western Sahara Stamps
Western Sahara is a disputed territory located in North Africa, primarily within the Sahara Desert region. Its postal history is complex, marked by Spanish colonial administration until 1975, followed by periods of Moroccan control and administration by the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR). Stamps issued during the Spanish era typically featured Spanish language and currency, while subsequent issues reflect the ongoing political conflict and competing claims over the territory. The territory's status remains unresolved, leading to a fragmented and contested philatelic record.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- North Africa
- Issuing period:
- None
- Languages:
- Arabic, Spanish
- Currency:
- MAD
- issuer:western-sahara.overview.parentIssuer:
- issuer:western-sahara.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Western Sahara stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Western Sahara Stamp Series
Spanish Colonial Issues (Pre-1975)
Stamps issued under Spanish administration, often featuring Spanish themes, flora, fauna, and colonial architecture. These are generally well-cataloged.
Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) Issues (1976-Present)
Stamps issued by the self-proclaimed SADR, often reflecting political themes, national symbols, and cultural heritage. These issues can be controversial and their postal validity disputed by some.
Moroccan Occupation Issues (1975-Present)
Moroccan stamps used in the Moroccan-controlled areas of Western Sahara, sometimes overprinted or with specific cancellations. These are generally considered valid by Morocco.
Western Sahara Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value varies significantly based on the issuing authority (Spanish, SADR, Moroccan), condition, and rarity. Early Spanish colonial issues and certain SADR commemorative sets can be more valuable. Many SADR issues are considered Cinderellas by some collectors due to their disputed postal status.
How to Identify Western Sahara Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Western Sahara stamps:
- 1 Look for inscriptions such as 'Sahara Español' for Spanish colonial issues.
- 2 SADR stamps often bear 'Sahara Occidental' or 'République Arabe Sahraouie Démocratique' in Arabic and/or French.
- 3 Moroccan stamps used in the territory will typically be standard Moroccan issues, identifiable by their cancellations or specific postal markings if any.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Western Sahara stamps?
Western Sahara stamps refer to postal issues from a disputed territory in North Africa. This includes stamps from the Spanish colonial period (Spanish Sahara), issues by the self-proclaimed Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), and Moroccan stamps used in the Moroccan-controlled parts of the territory.
Are Western Sahara stamps valuable?
The value of Western Sahara stamps varies widely. Spanish colonial issues can be moderately valuable, especially early sets or those in fine condition. SADR issues can be of interest to collectors of political or Cinderella stamps, with some rare sets fetching higher prices. Moroccan stamps used in the region generally hold standard Moroccan values unless they have unique cancellations.
How can I identify Western Sahara stamps?
To identify Western Sahara stamps, look for inscriptions like 'Sahara Español' for Spanish issues, or 'Sahara Occidental' / 'République Arabe Sahraouie Démocratique' for SADR issues. Moroccan stamps will bear Moroccan inscriptions. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly identify the origin and provide catalog references.
Which catalogs list Western Sahara stamps?
Major stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons list stamps from Western Sahara. Spanish colonial issues are well-covered. SADR issues are also listed, though sometimes with notes regarding their disputed postal status. Moroccan stamps used in the region are found under Morocco listings.
Not sure if your stamp is from Western Sahara?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store