French Post Zanzibar Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About French Post Zanzibar Stamps
French Post Zanzibar refers to the postal services operated by France within the territory of Zanzibar, an archipelago off the coast of East Africa, historically administered as a British protectorate. These services were established to facilitate mail exchange between French interests on the island and the French postal network, primarily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Stamps issued under this administration typically bear French text and denominations, often overprinted on French colonial issues or local provisional stamps. This distinct postal entity ceased operations following agreements that consolidated postal authority under the British administration or the subsequent independent government of Zanzibar.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1894 – 1904
- Languages:
- French, Arabic
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
French Post Zanzibar stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular French Post Zanzibar Stamp Series
French Colonial General Issues Overprinted 'ZANZIBAR' (1894-1900)
French colonial stamps (e.g., 'Commerce et Paix' type) overprinted 'ZANZIBAR' and often with new denominations in local currency (Annas, Rupees) or French currency (Centimes, Francs).
French Offices in Zanzibar Provisional Issues (1894-1896)
Early provisional issues, sometimes manuscript or handstamped, used before official overprints were widely available.
French Offices in Zanzibar with Surcharges (1897-1900)
Stamps with additional surcharges to reflect changes in postal rates or currency conversions.
French Post Zanzibar Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on the specific French base stamp used, the type and clarity of the overprint, condition, and rarity of specific denominations or errors. Early provisional issues and high-value surcharges are particularly sought after. Authenticity of overprints is crucial.
How to Identify French Post Zanzibar Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying French Post Zanzibar stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ZANZIBAR' overprints, typically in black or blue, on French colonial stamps.
- 2 Denominations may be in French currency (Centimes, Francs) or Indian currency (Annas, Rupees).
- 3 The base stamps are often French 'Commerce et Paix' or 'Sage' types.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are French Post Zanzibar stamps?
French Post Zanzibar stamps were issued by the French postal administration operating within the British Protectorate of Zanzibar from 1894 to 1904. These stamps facilitated mail for French interests on the island, often consisting of French colonial stamps overprinted with 'ZANZIBAR' and sometimes new denominations.
Are French Post Zanzibar stamps valuable?
Yes, many French Post Zanzibar stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare provisional issues, specific overprint varieties, and stamps in excellent condition. Common issues might range from €5-€50, while rare examples can fetch hundreds or even thousands of Euros. Value depends heavily on the specific issue, overprint authenticity, and condition.
How can I identify French Post Zanzibar stamps?
To identify French Post Zanzibar stamps, look for the 'ZANZIBAR' overprint on French colonial stamps, often with denominations in French or Indian currency. Pay close attention to the details of the overprint and the underlying stamp design. For precise identification and authentication, using a specialized stamp identifier app or consulting a philatelic expert is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list French Post Zanzibar stamps?
French Post Zanzibar stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott (under 'French Offices in Zanzibar'), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, historical context, and estimated values for various issues.
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