Aden Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Aden Stamps
Aden, situated in the southern Arabian Peninsula, was a vital British Crown Colony and a strategic port on the route to India. Its postal history is marked by continuous British administration, beginning with issues for the East India Company and later for the Colony, often featuring English text alongside Arabic. The territory transitioned significantly following the end of British rule and subsequent incorporation into the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen, leading to distinct changes in postal authority and design. Aden's stamps reflect its unique status as a major entrepôt within the British postal network until the late 1960s.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Arabian Peninsula
- Issuing period:
- 1937 – 1964
- Languages:
- English, Arabic
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- Great Britain
Stamp Catalogs
Aden stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Aden Stamp Series
King George VI Pictorials (1937-1951)
The first definitive series for the Colony of Aden, featuring local scenes and the portrait of King George VI.
Queen Elizabeth II Definitives (1953-1964)
A series depicting various aspects of Aden's life and economy, with the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
Surcharged Issues (Various)
Stamps overprinted for specific postal rates or currency changes, reflecting administrative adjustments.
Aden Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available. Early definitives, high values, and certain surcharges in fine condition can fetch significant prices. Errors and varieties are particularly sought after.
How to Identify Aden Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Aden stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ADEN' or 'COLONY OF ADEN' as the primary inscription.
- 2 Many stamps feature portraits of British monarchs (George VI, Elizabeth II).
- 3 Designs often depict local scenes, dhows, or the port of Aden.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Aden stamps?
Aden stamps were issued by the British Crown Colony of Aden, located in the southern Arabian Peninsula, from 1937 until its independence in 1967. They reflect its status as a vital strategic port and British administrative center.
Are Aden stamps valuable?
The value of Aden stamps varies. Common issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from £0.50 to £5. However, early definitive sets, high-value denominations, specific surcharges, and stamps with errors or varieties, especially in fine unused condition, can be quite valuable, potentially fetching hundreds of pounds.
How can I identify Aden stamps?
Aden stamps are typically identified by the inscription 'ADEN' or 'COLONY OF ADEN', often accompanied by portraits of British monarchs like King George VI or Queen Elizabeth II. Many designs feature local imagery such as dhows or the port itself. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app which can scan and match your stamps to catalog entries.
Which catalogs list Aden stamps?
Aden stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, and the Michel Ostafrika (East Africa) catalogue.
Not sure if your stamp is from Aden?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store