Christiansborg Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Christiansborg (Danish Gold Coast) Stamps
Christiansborg, historically associated with the Gold Coast region of West Africa, was a Danish trading post that later became part of the British Gold Coast Colony. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the Danish colonial administration before its eventual incorporation into the British system, which heavily influenced its postal markings and stamp issues. Stamps issued during the Danish period would have primarily featured Danish language inscriptions, reflecting its status as a Danish enclave. The transition from Danish control to British rule marked a significant administrative shift reflected in the subsequent adoption of British postal conventions and currency.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- West Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- Danish
- Currency:
- DKK
- Parent issuer:
- Denmark
Stamp Catalogs
Christiansborg (Danish Gold Coast) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Christiansborg (Danish Gold Coast) Stamp Series
First Issue (1861)
The singular issue for Christiansborg, consisting of Danish stamps overprinted for use in the colony.
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Christiansborg (Danish Gold Coast) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The stamps of Christiansborg are rare due to their limited issue and short period of use. Values depend heavily on condition, cancellations, and specific varieties of the overprint. Unused examples are particularly scarce and command higher prices.
How to Identify Christiansborg (Danish Gold Coast) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Christiansborg (Danish Gold Coast) stamps:
- 1 Look for Danish stamps (typically 'Two Skilling' or 'Four Skilling' values) bearing an overprint 'K.D.P.S.' (Kongelig Dansk Post) or similar, often with a date or value in local currency.
- 2 Examine the overprint carefully for authenticity, as forgeries and fakes exist due to their rarity.
- 3 Check for cancellations that might indicate usage in the Gold Coast region, though specific Christiansborg cancellations are rare.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Christiansborg stamps?
Christiansborg stamps refer to the postal issues used in the Danish trading post of Christiansborg (modern-day Accra, Ghana) on the Gold Coast of West Africa. These were Danish stamps overprinted for colonial use, issued for a very brief period in 1861 before the postal administration transitioned to British control.
Are Christiansborg stamps valuable?
Yes, Christiansborg stamps are generally considered valuable due to their extreme rarity and historical significance. Common examples can fetch €50-€200, while rare varieties, unused stamps, or those with clear cancellations can command prices from €500 to over €2,000. Their value is highly dependent on condition and authenticity.
How can I identify Christiansborg stamps?
To identify Christiansborg stamps, look for Danish stamps (often from the 1850s-1860s period) that bear an overprint, typically 'K.D.P.S.' or a similar marking indicating Danish colonial postal service. Due to their rarity and the existence of forgeries, careful examination of the overprint and consultation with philatelic experts or a stamp identifier app is recommended to confirm authenticity.
Which catalogs list Christiansborg stamps?
Christiansborg stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on the specific Danish base stamps used, the types of overprints, and estimated values.
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