Indochinese Post Mongtze Stamps
Indochinese Post Mongtze refers to the postal administration operating in Mongtze (now Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture) within the historical context of French Indochina, located in southern China near the border with Tonkin. This entity issued stamps primarily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries under French colonial administration, often featuring French colonial designs overprinted for local use.
- Issued stamps
- 1902–1919
- Region
- Asia, East Asia
- Currency
- FRF
- Languages
- French, Chinese
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- French Indochina
History and background
The postal issues reflect the complex geopolitical situation of the French presence in this region, with inscriptions typically appearing in French alongside Chinese characters. These stamps are notable for documenting the specific postal arrangements established by France in territories bordering its primary Indochinese colonies.
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.
- MONGTZE
How to identify them
- Look for the 'MONGTZE' overprint, typically in French, on stamps originally issued for French Indochina or French Colonies.
- Examine the underlying stamp design, which often features the 'Commerce' type (Allegory of Commerce and Peace) or other colonial designs.
- Check for specific overprint varieties, including font, size, and color, as these can significantly affect value.
- Verify the authenticity of the overprint, as forgeries are known.
Popular series
-
General Issues with 'MONGTZE' Overprint
1902-1904
Stamps of French Indochina overprinted 'MONGTZE' in various styles and colors, often on 'Commerce' type issues.
-
Surcharged Issues
1903-1904
Stamps of French Indochina overprinted 'MONGTZE' and additionally surcharged with new values in French currency.
-
Postage Due Stamps
1903
French Indochina postage due stamps overprinted 'MONGTZE'.
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–$1,000+
Values vary significantly based on the specific overprint, stamp condition (mint vs. used), and rarity of the underlying French Indochina issue. Errors and varieties of overprints can command higher prices. Authenticity is crucial due to potential for forged overprints.
Catalogs. Indochinese Post Mongtze 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 Indochinese Post Mongtze stamps
Indochinese Post Mongtze stamps are postal issues used in the French concession of Mongtze (now Mengzi, China) during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These were typically stamps of French Indochina or French Colonies overprinted with 'MONGTZE' to denote their specific use in this treaty port.
The value of Indochinese Post Mongtze stamps varies. Common issues can be found for $5-$50, while rare overprints, specific varieties, or stamps in pristine condition can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Factors like the underlying stamp, the overprint's rarity, and condition greatly influence their worth.
To identify Indochinese Post Mongtze stamps, look for the distinct 'MONGTZE' overprint on stamps of French colonial design. Pay attention to the details of the overprint itself, as variations exist. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
Indochinese Post Mongtze stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, historical context, and estimated values for the various issues and their known varieties.
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