Inhambane Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Inhambane Stamps
Inhambane is a coastal region located in southern Africa, historically part of Portuguese East Africa. Its postal history is deeply intertwined with the administration of the Portuguese colonial empire, with stamps primarily denominated in Portuguese currency and bearing Portuguese inscriptions. Following the Carnation Revolution and subsequent decolonization, the territory transitioned into the independent nation of Mozambique in 1975, marking a significant shift in postal authority and language usage to Portuguese.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Southern Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1895 – 1913
- Languages:
- Portuguese
- Currency:
- PTE
- Parent issuer:
- Portuguese East Africa
Stamp Catalogs
Inhambane stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Inhambane Stamp Series
King Carlos I Series (1895-1903)
Definitive stamps featuring the portrait of King Carlos I of Portugal, overprinted 'INHASSORO' or 'INHASSORO' and later 'INHASSORO' with new values.
King Manuel II Series (1910-1911)
Definitive stamps depicting King Manuel II, often overprinted with new denominations for use in Inhambane.
Republica Overprints (1911-1913)
Stamps of the previous monarchies overprinted 'REPUBLICA' following the establishment of the Portuguese Republic, often with new values.
Inhambane Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value depends heavily on condition, specific overprints, and scarcity of certain denominations. Early issues and errors can be quite valuable.
How to Identify Inhambane Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Inhambane stamps:
- 1 Look for 'INHASSORO' or 'INHASSORO' overprints on stamps of Portuguese East Africa or Portugal.
- 2 Stamps are typically denominated in Portuguese currency (Reis, Centavos, Escudos).
- 3 Examine the portrait of the monarch (King Carlos I or King Manuel II) or the 'REPUBLICA' overprint.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Inhambane stamps?
Inhambane stamps are postage stamps issued for the Portuguese colonial district of Inhambane, located in present-day Mozambique, between 1895 and 1913. They were primarily overprinted stamps of Portuguese East Africa or Portugal.
Are Inhambane stamps valuable?
The value of Inhambane stamps varies significantly. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rare overprints, errors, and high-denomination stamps in fine condition can fetch hundreds or even thousands of euros. Factors like condition, specific overprint, and rarity play a crucial role.
How can I identify Inhambane stamps?
To identify Inhambane stamps, look for the 'INHASSORO' or 'INHASSORO' overprint on stamps that often feature Portuguese monarchs or the 'REPUBLICA' overprint. They will be denominated in Portuguese currency. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app that can analyze your stamp's features.
Which catalogs list Inhambane stamps?
Inhambane stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott (under Portuguese Colonies or Mozambique), Michel (under Portugiesische Kolonien), and Stanley Gibbons (under Portuguese Colonies or Mozambique).
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