German Togo Stamps
German Togo, situated in West Africa, was a German protectorate from 1884 until its occupation by Allied forces during World War I. Its postal history is characterized by issues under the German Empire, often featuring German inscriptions alongside local place names.
- Issued stamps
- 1897–1909
- Region
- Africa, West Africa
- Currency
- German Mark
- Languages
- German
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- German Empire
About German Togo stamps
Following the war, the territory was divided into British and French mandates, leading to distinct postal administrations and subsequent stamp issues under British and French control. The stamps from the German period reflect the administrative reach of the German colonial postal service in this region.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify German Togo stamps
- Look for 'Togo' overprints on German Empire stamps (early issues).
- Identify the 'Yacht' series (Hohenzollern) with 'Togo' inscription at the bottom.
- Check for watermarks (lozenges or crosses) and perforations characteristic of German colonial issues.
Popular series
-
Yacht Series (Hohenzollern Yacht)
1900-1909
The definitive series for all German colonies, featuring the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern'. These stamps are highly sought after by colonial collectors.
-
German Eagle Issues
1897-1899
Early issues for German Togo, featuring the imperial eagle design, often overprinted with 'Togo'.
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
- €100–€5,000+
Values vary significantly based on condition, cancellations, and specific printings or overprints. Early issues and high values of the Yacht series, especially mint or on cover, command premium prices. Forgeries and reprints exist, so expertization is recommended for valuable items.
Catalogs. German Togo 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 Togo stamps
German Togo stamps are postage stamps issued for the German protectorate of Togo in West Africa from 1897 to 1909. They primarily consist of German Empire stamps overprinted 'Togo' and the definitive 'Yacht' series (Hohenzollern) with 'Togo' inscribed.
Yes, many German Togo stamps can be quite valuable, especially early overprinted issues, high values of the Yacht series, and stamps in fine condition or on original covers. Common stamps might range from €5-€50, while rare examples can fetch hundreds or even thousands of Euros.
You can identify German Togo stamps by looking for the 'Togo' inscription or overprint. Early issues feature the German imperial eagle, while later and more common issues display the 'Yacht' (Hohenzollern) design. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
German Togo stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (as 'German Colonies - Togo'), Michel (Germany and Colonies), and Stanley Gibbons (German States and Colonies).
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