Dominican Republic Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Dominican Republic Stamps
The Dominican Republic is situated in the Caribbean, occupying the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola in the Americas. Its postal history began under Spanish colonial rule, transitioning through periods of Haitian occupation and eventual independence, leading to membership in the Universal Postal Union in 1880. Stamps predominantly feature Spanish inscriptions, reflecting the official language of the nation. The country has experienced numerous political upheavals and changes in government, which are often documented through commemorative issues reflecting national heroes and historical milestones.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- Caribbean
- Issuing period:
- 1865 – present
- Languages:
- Spanish
- Currency:
- DOP
- issuer:dominican-republic.overview.parentIssuer:
- issuer:dominican-republic.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Dominican Republic stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Dominican Republic Stamp Series
Early Issues (Coat of Arms) (1865-1880s)
The first stamps of the Dominican Republic, often featuring the national coat of arms, reflecting the nascent independent postal system.
Columbus Lighthouse Issues (1930s-1990s)
Numerous issues commemorating or depicting the Faro a Colón (Columbus Lighthouse), a significant national monument.
National Heroes and Historical Events (Various)
A recurring theme celebrating national heroes like Juan Pablo Duarte, Francisco del Rosario Sánchez, and Matías Ramón Mella, and key historical milestones.
Dominican Republic Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available and inexpensive. Early issues, especially those in fine condition or with rare cancellations, can command significant prices. Errors, varieties, and certain commemorative sets also hold higher value.
How to Identify Dominican Republic Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Dominican Republic stamps:
- 1 Look for 'República Dominicana' or 'Correos' inscriptions.
- 2 Early issues often feature the national coat of arms or portraits of national figures.
- 3 Many stamps are denominated in Centavos or Pesos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Dominican Republic stamps?
Dominican Republic stamps are postage stamps issued by the Dominican Republic, a Caribbean nation. Their postal history began in 1865, reflecting periods of Spanish colonial rule, Haitian occupation, and eventual independence, with membership in the UPU in 1880.
Are Dominican Republic stamps valuable?
The value of Dominican Republic stamps varies widely. Common modern issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from $0.10 to $5. However, early issues, especially those from the 19th century, rare errors, or stamps in pristine condition, can be quite valuable, fetching anywhere from $50 to over $5,000.
How can I identify Dominican Republic stamps?
Dominican Republic stamps can typically be identified by inscriptions such as 'República Dominicana' or 'Correos'. Early issues often feature the national coat of arms or portraits of national heroes. For precise identification and cataloging, you can use a stamp identifier app or consult specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list Dominican Republic stamps?
Dominican Republic stamps are extensively listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
Not sure if your stamp is from Dominican Republic?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store