Anjouan Stamps
Anjouan is a small island nation located in the Comoros archipelago in the western Indian Ocean, off the coast of East Africa. Historically, the island was part of the French Comoros Protectorate, and its postal issues primarily reflect French colonial administration until the nation gained independence in 1975.
- Issued stamps
- 1892–1907
- Region
- Africa, East Africa
- Currency
- FRF
- Languages
- French, Comorian
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- France
About Anjouan stamps
Stamps from this period typically feature French text and currency, though Anjouan briefly issued its own stamps during periods of internal political instability following independence. The island's postal history is intrinsically linked to the broader political evolution of the Comoros Union.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- ANJOUAN
How to identify Anjouan stamps
- Look for 'ANJOUAN' overprints on French colonial stamps.
- Early stamps often feature allegorical designs (Navigation and Commerce, Type Sage).
- Check for the denomination in French Francs (Centimes, Francs).
Popular series
-
Navigation and Commerce Issue
1892-1900
Overprinted French colonial stamps featuring allegorical figures of Navigation and Commerce, common to many French colonies.
-
Type Sage Issue
1900-1907
Overprinted French 'Type Sage' stamps, depicting a seated allegorical figure of Peace and Commerce.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- $1–$20
- Scarce stamps
- $50–$500+
Early Anjouan stamps are primarily French colonial issues overprinted for local use. Their value depends heavily on the specific overprint, condition, and rarity of the underlying French stamp. Errors or varieties in the overprint can significantly increase value. Later issues from the brief periods of self-governance are generally less common and can command higher prices.
Catalogs. Anjouan stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about Anjouan stamps
Anjouan stamps primarily refer to French colonial stamps overprinted with 'ANJOUAN' for use on the island between 1892 and 1907. There were also brief periods of independent stamp issues after 1975, reflecting the island's complex political history within the Comoros archipelago.
The value of Anjouan stamps varies. Early colonial overprints can range from a few dollars for common issues to several hundred dollars for rare varieties, errors, or high-denomination stamps in fine condition. Stamps from later, brief periods of self-governance can also be sought after by specialists. Condition, rarity, and specific overprint details are key value determinants.
Anjouan stamps are typically identified by the 'ANJOUAN' overprint on French colonial stamps. They will also bear French text and denominations. To accurately identify specific issues, check the design, color, and the exact wording and style of the overprint. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Anjouan stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under French Colonies or Comoros), Michel (under French Colonies or Comoros), and Stanley Gibbons (under French Colonies or Comoros). These catalogs provide detailed listings, images, and estimated values for various issues.
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