British Post Morocco Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About British Post Offices in Morocco Stamps
British Post Morocco refers to the postal services operated by the British General Post Office within the international zone of Tangier and other areas of Morocco under British influence during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These issues primarily served the expatriate community and international trade routes in North Africa, operating under the framework of the Universal Postal Union agreements applicable to British colonial and consular posts. Stamps from this period typically feature English inscriptions alongside French or Arabic, reflecting the complex geopolitical environment of the Moroccan Protectorates. The service ceased upon the reorganization of international postal arrangements following the establishment of the Tangier International Zone statutes.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- North Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1898 – 1956
- Languages:
- English, French, Arabic
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- Great Britain
Stamp Catalogs
British Post Offices in Morocco stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular British Post Offices in Morocco Stamp Series
Queen Victoria Overprints (1898-1901)
Early issues featuring Great Britain Queen Victoria stamps overprinted with 'MOROCCO AGENCIES'.
King Edward VII Overprints (1902-1912)
British King Edward VII stamps overprinted 'MOROCCO AGENCIES' with various surcharges in French currency.
King George V Overprints (1913-1937)
British King George V stamps overprinted 'MOROCCO AGENCIES' and surcharged in French currency (centimes and francs).
British Post Offices in Morocco Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value varies significantly based on the specific overprint, surcharge, condition, and whether it's a key plate or a rare variety. Early issues and high-value surcharges tend to be more valuable. Tangier issues are generally more common than earlier Morocco Agencies issues.
How to Identify British Post Offices in Morocco Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying British Post Offices in Morocco stamps:
- 1 Look for 'MOROCCO AGENCIES' or 'TANGIER' overprints on Great Britain stamps.
- 2 Check the monarch's portrait (Victoria, Edward VII, George V, George VI, Elizabeth II) to determine the base stamp period.
- 3 Note the currency of the surcharge: British (pence/shillings), French (centimes/francs), or Spanish (centimos/pesetas).
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are British Post Morocco stamps?
British Post Morocco stamps are Great Britain postage stamps that were overprinted for use by British postal agencies operating in Morocco, primarily in the International Zone of Tangier and other cities, from 1898 until 1956. These stamps facilitated postal services for the British expatriate community and international trade.
Are British Post Morocco stamps valuable?
The value of British Post Morocco stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for a few pounds, while rare overprints, specific surcharges, or stamps in pristine condition can fetch hundreds or even thousands of pounds. Early Queen Victoria and King Edward VII issues, as well as certain Tangier varieties, are often more valuable.
How can I identify British Post Morocco stamps?
You can identify British Post Morocco stamps by looking for the distinctive overprints 'MOROCCO AGENCIES' or 'TANGIER' on standard Great Britain stamps. Pay attention to the monarch depicted (Victoria, Edward VII, George V, George VI, Elizabeth II) and any currency surcharges (e.g., '10 CENTIMES', '1 PESETA'). For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog.
Which catalogs list British Post Morocco stamps?
British Post Morocco stamps are extensively listed in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalog, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under Great Britain Offices Abroad), and the Michel Europa-Katalog (West- und Mitteleuropa).
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