Angola Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Angola Stamps
Angola is a nation situated on the Atlantic coast of Southern Africa, historically a Portuguese colony. Its postal history is deeply intertwined with Portugal, with stamps initially reflecting colonial administration and Portuguese language usage, often denominated in Portuguese currency. Following independence in 1975, the country transitioned to sovereign status, leading to new definitive issues reflecting national identity and the official language, Portuguese. The nation's stamps document significant periods of political change, including the transition from colonial rule to the People's Republic of Angola.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Southern Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1870 – present
- Languages:
- Portuguese
- Currency:
- AOA
- Parent issuer:
- Portugal
Stamp Catalogs
Angola stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Angola Stamp Series
Crown Issue (1870-1885)
The first stamps for Angola, featuring the Portuguese Crown, initially issued for Portugal and overprinted for colonial use, later definitive issues.
King Carlos I Issue (1898-1903)
Definitive series depicting King Carlos I of Portugal, common across Portuguese colonies with specific overprints or colors for Angola.
Independence Issues (1975-1976)
Stamps commemorating Angola's independence from Portugal, often featuring national symbols and themes of liberation.
Angola Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early colonial issues, especially those with rare overprints or errors, can be quite valuable. Post-independence issues are generally more affordable, with some exceptions for specific commemorative sets or low-print runs. Condition significantly impacts value.
How to Identify Angola Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Angola stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ANGOLA' or 'COLONIA DE ANGOLA' inscriptions on colonial issues.
- 2 Early stamps often feature Portuguese monarchs or colonial crests.
- 3 Post-independence stamps (from 1975 onwards) will typically feature 'REPÚBLICA POPULAR DE ANGOLA' or 'ANGOLA'.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Angola stamps?
Angola stamps are postage stamps issued for use in Angola, a nation on the Atlantic coast of Southern Africa. They reflect its history, from a Portuguese colony to an independent republic, with designs depicting monarchs, colonial themes, national symbols, and local fauna and flora.
Are Angola stamps valuable?
The value of Angola stamps varies widely. Early colonial issues, especially those with rare overprints, errors, or in pristine condition, can be quite valuable, sometimes fetching thousands of euros. More common post-independence stamps are generally affordable, ranging from a few cents to several euros, but specific commemorative sets or definitive issues with lower print runs can also hold significant value.
How can I identify Angola stamps?
You can identify Angola stamps by looking for the country name 'ANGOLA' or 'COLONIA DE ANGOLA' (for colonial issues) and 'REPÚBLICA POPULAR DE ANGOLA' or simply 'ANGOLA' (for post-independence issues). Early stamps often feature Portuguese monarchs or colonial emblems. For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list Angola stamps?
Angola stamps are extensively cataloged in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, Michel (especially for European and colonial issues), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, as well as their World Stamp Catalogues.
Not sure if your stamp is from Angola?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store