British Togo Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About British Togo Stamps
British Togoland, located in West Africa, was a League of Nations mandate and later a United Nations trust territory administered by the United Kingdom. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the British colonial system, sharing administrative and philatelic practices with the Gold Coast until its eventual integration with Ghana. Stamps issued for this territory primarily feature English alongside French, reflecting the bilingual nature of the region following the partition of the original German colony of Togoland after World War I. The territory's unique status as a trust territory concluded with its 1957 plebiscite, which resulted in its union with the Gold Coast.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- West Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1922 – 1957
- Languages:
- English, French
- Currency:
- XOF
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
British Togo stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular British Togo Stamp Series
Gold Coast Overprints (1922-1926)
Stamps of Gold Coast overprinted 'TOGO' or 'BRITISH TOGO' to signify their use in the mandated territory.
King George V Issues (1928-1937)
Definitive issues featuring King George V, often with 'BRITISH TOGO' or 'TOGO' overprints on Gold Coast designs.
King George VI Issues (1938-1952)
Definitive stamps featuring King George VI, continuing the practice of overprinting Gold Coast stamps for British Togo.
British Togo Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early overprints and higher denominations in good condition can be quite valuable. Errors or varieties are particularly sought after. Most common stamps are affordable.
How to Identify British Togo Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying British Togo stamps:
- 1 Look for 'TOGO' or 'BRITISH TOGO' overprints, typically on stamps originally issued for the Gold Coast.
- 2 Stamps often feature British monarchs (King George V, King George VI) and colonial designs common to British West Africa.
- 3 issuer:british-togo.identification.tips.2
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are British Togo stamps?
British Togo stamps were issued for the League of Nations mandate and later United Nations trust territory of British Togoland in West Africa, administered by the United Kingdom. These stamps were primarily Gold Coast issues overprinted with 'TOGO' or 'BRITISH TOGO'.
Are British Togo stamps valuable?
The value of British Togo stamps varies significantly. Common issues are generally affordable, ranging from £0.50 to £10. However, early overprints, higher denominations, and any errors or varieties can be quite valuable, potentially fetching hundreds of pounds. Condition plays a crucial role in determining value.
How can I identify British Togo stamps?
British Togo stamps are primarily identified by the 'TOGO' or 'BRITISH TOGO' overprints on stamps originally issued for the Gold Coast. They often depict British monarchs and colonial imagery. For precise identification and cataloging, consider using a stamp identifier app that can analyze your stamp and provide details.
Which catalogs list British Togo stamps?
British Togo stamps are comprehensively listed in major stamp catalogs such as Stanley Gibbons (particularly the Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalog), Scott, and Michel. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated values.
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