Guinea-Bissau Stamps
Guinea-Bissau is a nation situated on the West African coast, historically part of Portuguese Guinea. Its postal history is deeply rooted in the Portuguese colonial administration until achieving independence in 1974, after which it joined the Universal Postal Union.
- Issued stamps
- 1974–2018
- Region
- Africa, West Africa
- Currency
- XOF
- Languages
- Portuguese
- Issuer type
- Modern postal administration
- Part of
- Portuguese Guinea
About Guinea-Bissau stamps
Stamps from this period predominantly feature Portuguese inscriptions, reflecting the official language. The country's transition from a colony to an independent state marks a significant shift in philatelic themes and administrative control over its postal services.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- REPÚBLICA DA GUINÉ-BISSAU
- GUINÉ-BISSAU
How to identify Guinea-Bissau stamps
- Look for 'REPÚBLICA DA GUINÉ-BISSAU' or 'GUINÉ-BISSAU' as the primary country inscription.
- Early issues may still bear some stylistic resemblance to Portuguese colonial stamps but will clearly state the independent nation's name.
- The currency indicated on stamps will typically be the Escudo (until 1997) or CFA Franc (after 1997).
Popular series
-
Independence Issues
1974-1975
Early issues celebrating the nation's independence, often depicting national symbols, leaders, and local flora/fauna.
-
Fauna and Flora
1980s-1990s
A popular thematic series showcasing the rich biodiversity of Guinea-Bissau, including local animals, birds, and plants.
-
Sports and Events
1990s-2000s
Stamps commemorating international sporting events (e.g., Olympic Games, World Cup) and other global or national events.
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
- €0.50–€5
- Scarce stamps
- €50–€200+
Most common Guinea-Bissau stamps are readily available and inexpensive. Early issues, particularly those from the immediate post-independence period, and certain thematic sets in pristine condition, can command higher prices. Errors or varieties are rare but can significantly increase value.
Catalogs. Guinea-Bissau 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 Guinea-Bissau stamps
Guinea-Bissau stamps are postage stamps issued by the West African nation of Guinea-Bissau since its independence from Portugal in 1974. They reflect the country's history, culture, natural heritage, and participation in global events.
While many common Guinea-Bissau stamps are affordable, certain issues can be valuable. Factors influencing value include age, rarity, condition (mint unused vs. used), and whether they are part of a complete set or feature errors. Early post-independence issues and specific thematic series in fine condition tend to be more sought after by collectors.
You can identify Guinea-Bissau stamps by looking for the inscription 'REPÚBLICA DA GUINÉ-BISSAU' or 'GUINÉ-BISSAU'. The official language on stamps is Portuguese. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
Guinea-Bissau stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issue dates, designs, perforations, watermarks, and estimated values.
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