Chilean Occupation of Peru Stamps

Identification, history, popular series & stamp values

About Chilean Occupation of Peru Stamps

The Chilean Occupation of Peru, spanning from 1881 to 1884 during the War of the Pacific, involved the temporary administration of Peruvian territory by Chile. During this period, Chilean postal authorities issued provisional stamps for use in the occupied zones, often overprinting existing Peruvian issues or using definitive Chilean stamps. These issues primarily feature Spanish, reflecting the official language of both nations involved in the conflict. The postal history of this era is a direct consequence of the military occupation and ceased upon the restoration of Peruvian civil administration.

Learn more: Wikipedia

Issuer Overview

Region:
Americas
Subregion:
South America
Issuing period:
1881 – 1883
Languages:
Spanish
Currency:
PES
Parent issuer:
Chile

Stamp Catalogs

Chilean Occupation of Peru stamps are listed in the following catalogs:

Scott Catalog
Michel Catalog
Stanley Gibbons Catalog

Popular Chilean Occupation of Peru Stamp Series

Provisional Overprints on Peruvian Stamps (1881-1883)

Peruvian stamps overprinted with 'CHILE' or other Chilean postal markings for use in occupied territories.

Chilean Definitive Stamps Used in Peru (1881-1883)

Regular Chilean definitive stamps used in Peruvian post offices under Chilean administration, often identifiable by postmarks.

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issuer:chilean-occupation-of-peru.series.items.2.description

Chilean Occupation of Peru Stamp Value Overview

Common stamps
$10 - $100
Rare stamps
$500 - $5,000+

Value Notes: Value varies significantly based on the specific overprint, stamp denomination, condition, and postmark. Rarer overprints and high-value Peruvian base stamps command higher prices. Authenticity of overprints is crucial.

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How to Identify Chilean Occupation of Peru Stamps

Key features to look for when identifying Chilean Occupation of Peru stamps:

  • 1 Look for 'CHILE' overprints (often in various fonts and colors) on Peruvian stamps issued between 1874 and 1880.
  • 2 Examine postmarks for locations within Peru that were under Chilean occupation (e.g., Lima, Callao, Arequipa).
  • 3 Be aware of forged overprints; expertization is often recommended for valuable examples.

Related Issuers & Topics

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Chilean Occupation of Peru stamps?

Chilean Occupation of Peru stamps are provisional postal issues used between 1881 and 1883 in Peruvian territories occupied by Chile during the War of the Pacific. These typically consist of existing Peruvian stamps overprinted with 'CHILE' or other Chilean postal indicators, or regular Chilean stamps used in occupied areas.

Are Chilean Occupation of Peru stamps valuable?

Yes, many Chilean Occupation of Peru stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare overprints, specific varieties, or those on higher denomination Peruvian base stamps. Their historical significance and limited issuance contribute to their collectibility. Common examples might be in the $10-$100 range, while rare items can fetch thousands of dollars.

How can I identify Chilean Occupation of Peru stamps?

To identify Chilean Occupation of Peru stamps, look for Peruvian stamps from the late 1870s that bear an overprint, most commonly 'CHILE'. Also, check for Chilean definitive stamps used with Peruvian postmarks from the occupation period. Using a stamp identifier app can help confirm the base stamp and potentially the overprint, but expert authentication is recommended for valuable examples due to the prevalence of forgeries.

Which catalogs list Chilean Occupation of Peru stamps?

Chilean Occupation of Peru stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott (under Peru, Occupation Issues), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values for these historically significant issues.

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