Indochina Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About French Indochina Stamps
French Indochina, encompassing modern-day Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, was a colonial territory in Southeast Asia administered by France from the mid-19th century until 1954. Stamps issued for this entity typically featured French colonial iconography and were denominated in French currency, later transitioning to piastres. The postal system was integrated into the French colonial network, and issues often bore French text alongside local language transliterations. The political fragmentation following World War II led to the dissolution of the unified postal administration as the constituent nations gained independence.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1889 – 1949
- Languages:
- French, Vietnamese, Khmer, Lao
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
French Indochina stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular French Indochina Stamp Series
Navigation and Commerce (1892-1900)
Overprinted French colonial stamps featuring allegorical figures of Navigation and Commerce, common to many French colonies.
Pictorial Series (1900-1920s)
Early pictorial issues depicting local scenes, landscapes, and indigenous people, often with the 'INDOCHINE' inscription.
Definitives with Local Motifs (1920s-1940s)
Later definitive series showcasing local architecture, historical figures, and cultural elements, reflecting a more distinct identity.
French Indochina Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available. Early issues, especially those with rare overprints, errors, or in pristine condition, can fetch significant prices. Complete sets and high-value definitives are also sought after.
How to Identify French Indochina Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying French Indochina stamps:
- 1 Look for 'INDOCHINE' or 'INDO-CHINE' inscription.
- 2 Denominations are typically in French currency (centimes, francs) or later in piastres.
- 3 Stamps often feature French colonial designs or local motifs with French text.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Indochina stamps?
Indochina stamps were issued for French Indochina, a colonial territory in Southeast Asia administered by France from the mid-19th century until 1954. This entity encompassed modern-day Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, and its stamps reflect French colonial iconography and local cultural elements.
Are Indochina stamps valuable?
The value of Indochina stamps varies widely. Common stamps are generally inexpensive, ranging from $0.50 to $10. However, rare early issues, specific overprints, errors, and complete sets, especially in fine condition, can be quite valuable, fetching anywhere from $50 to several thousand dollars.
How can I identify Indochina stamps?
To identify Indochina stamps, look for the inscription 'INDOCHINE' or 'INDO-CHINE'. Denominations will typically be in French currency (centimes, francs) or piastres. Designs often combine French colonial themes with local landscapes, people, or architecture. For precise identification and cataloging, consider using a stamp identifier app which can scan your stamp and provide detailed information.
Which catalogs list Indochina stamps?
Indochina stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Katalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, among others.
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