Guanacaste Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Guanacaste (Costa Rica) Stamps
Guanacaste is a region located in northwestern Costa Rica, Central America. While not an independent stamp-issuing entity, its postal history is entirely integrated with that of the Republic of Costa Rica, reflecting the nation's development from a Spanish colony to an independent republic. Costa Rican stamps from this period primarily feature Spanish inscriptions, often commemorating national heroes or significant historical events relevant to the region's integration into the national framework. The administrative history of Guanacaste is tied to Costa Rica's broader political evolution, including its adherence to international postal agreements like the Universal Postal Union.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- Central America
- Issuing period:
- 1885 – 1889
- Languages:
- Spanish
- Currency:
- CRC
- Parent issuer:
- Costa Rica
Stamp Catalogs
Guanacaste (Costa Rica) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Guanacaste (Costa Rica) Stamp Series
Guanacaste Overprints (1885-1889)
These issues consist of regular Costa Rican stamps overprinted with 'GUANACASTE' to denote their use in the province, primarily for internal postal administration.
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Guanacaste (Costa Rica) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Guanacaste overprints is highly dependent on the condition of the stamp, the specific underlying Costa Rican issue, and the clarity and type of the overprint. Errors or scarce varieties can command significantly higher prices.
How to Identify Guanacaste (Costa Rica) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Guanacaste (Costa Rica) stamps:
- 1 Look for the distinct 'GUANACASTE' overprint on definitive stamps of Costa Rica from the 1880s.
- 2 Examine the underlying Costa Rican stamp for its original design, denomination, and watermarks.
- 3 Pay attention to the type and font of the overprint, as variations exist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Guanacaste stamps?
Guanacaste stamps are regular postage stamps of Costa Rica that were overprinted with 'GUANACASTE' for use in the province of Guanacaste between 1885 and 1889. They are not stamps from an independent issuing entity but rather a regional postal designation within Costa Rica.
Are Guanacaste stamps valuable?
The value of Guanacaste overprinted stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few dollars, while rarer underlying stamps with clear, well-centered overprints, or specific varieties, can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Condition is a major factor in their valuation.
How can I identify Guanacaste stamps?
You can identify Guanacaste stamps by looking for the 'GUANACASTE' overprint on Costa Rican stamps issued in the mid-to-late 1880s. The Stamp Identifier app can also assist in identifying the base Costa Rican stamp and potentially the overprint variations.
Which catalogs list Guanacaste stamps?
Guanacaste overprinted stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, typically within the Costa Rica section, often under a specific heading for 'Provisional Issues' or 'Regional Overprints'.
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