Buenos Aires Stamps
The Province of Buenos Aires, located in the Pampas region of South America, issued its own stamps following the dissolution of the Argentine Confederation. Its postal history is marked by the period of intense federalism and provincial autonomy in the mid-19th century, prior to full reintegration into the national postal system.
- Issued stamps
- 1858–1862
- Region
- Americas, South America
- Currency
- ARS
- Languages
- Spanish
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- Argentina
About Buenos Aires stamps
Stamps from this era predominantly feature Spanish inscriptions reflecting the official language of the region. The issuance of these provincial stamps ceased as national authority consolidated, marking a significant administrative transition in Argentine postal history.
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.
- CORREOS
- PROVINCIA DE BUENOS AIRES
How to identify Buenos Aires stamps
- Look for the 'Barquitos' (steamship) design for the earliest issues (1858-1862).
- Inscriptions will be in Spanish, often including 'CORREOS' and 'PROVINCIA DE BUENOS AIRES'.
- Early issues are typographed and often show variations in printing and paper.
Popular series
-
Barquitos (Steamship Issue)
1858-1862
The iconic first issue of Buenos Aires, featuring a steamship, often referred to as 'Barquitos' (little boats). These stamps are highly sought after due to their historical significance and early printing methods.
-
Liberty Head Issue
1862
A later issue depicting a Liberty head, marking the final series before the province's postal system was fully integrated into the national Argentine system.
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
- $10–$100
- Scarce stamps
- $500–$10,000+
Common examples of the 'Barquitos' can be found for a reasonable price, but rare varieties, errors, or stamps in superb condition, especially the early issues and specific printings, can fetch significant sums. The 1858 1 peso 'Barquito' is particularly valuable.
Catalogs. Buenos Aires 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 Buenos Aires stamps
Buenos Aires stamps refer to the postage stamps issued by the Province of Buenos Aires between 1858 and 1862, during a period of provincial autonomy before its full integration into the national postal system of Argentina. These stamps are highly significant in Argentine philately.
Yes, many Buenos Aires stamps are considered valuable, especially the early 'Barquitos' (steamship) issues. Their value depends heavily on rarity, condition, specific printings, and cancellations. Some rare varieties can command prices well into the thousands of dollars.
To identify Buenos Aires stamps, look for the distinctive 'Barquitos' (steamship) design or the later Liberty head issues. Key inscriptions include 'CORREOS' and 'PROVINCIA DE BUENOS AIRES'. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Buenos Aires stamps are listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under Argentina, historical issues), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, printings, and estimated values.
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