German Mariana Islands Stamps
The German Mariana Islands, situated in Micronesia within Oceania, formed part of the German colonial empire's Pacific possessions following the tripartite convention of 1899. Stamps issued during this period, primarily between 1900 and 1914, typically bore German inscriptions, reflecting the administration of the German New Guinea post office.
- Issued stamps
- 1899–1916
- Region
- Oceania, Micronesia
- Currency
- German Mark (Pfennig)
- Languages
- German
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- German Empire
History and background
This postal system ceased with the Japanese occupation at the outbreak of World War I, leading to the subsequent issuance of Japanese administration stamps. The islands' philatelic history is thus defined by this brief but distinct German colonial era.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify them
- Look for the 'Marianen' overprint on stamps featuring the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern'.
- Examine the overprint for authenticity; many forgeries exist, especially of the more valuable varieties.
- Check for German inscriptions and denominations in Pfennig and Mark.
Popular series
-
Yacht Issue (Hohenzollern Yacht)
1900-1914
The definitive series for all German colonies, featuring the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern'. These stamps were overprinted 'Marianen' for use in the German Mariana Islands.
-
Provisional Overprints
1900
Early issues often involved overprints on German Empire stamps, sometimes with local surcharges, before the standard Yacht series became prevalent.
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
- €5–€50
- Scarce stamps
- €200–€5,000+
Values vary significantly based on condition, specific overprint varieties, and cancellations. Early provisional issues and high-denomination Yacht stamps in fine condition are particularly sought after. Forgeries of overprints exist.
Catalogs. German Mariana Islands 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 German Mariana Islands stamps
German Mariana Islands stamps are postage stamps issued by the German colonial administration for the Mariana Islands between 1900 and 1914. They are primarily German Empire stamps, most notably the 'Yacht' series, overprinted with 'Marianen'.
Yes, German Mariana Islands stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare varieties, high denominations, and stamps in excellent condition. Common examples might fetch €5-€50, while rare overprints or errors can command hundreds or even thousands of Euros. Their value is influenced by their historical significance as colonial issues.
To identify German Mariana Islands stamps, look for the distinctive 'Marianen' overprint, typically on stamps depicting the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern'. The stamps will also feature German text and denominations. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
German Mariana Islands stamps are comprehensively listed in major international philatelic catalogs such as Michel (especially the Germany and Colonies volumes), Scott, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, overprints, and estimated market values.
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