Madeira Stamps
Madeira is an autonomous archipelago of Portugal situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, geographically associated with Europe. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to Portugal, having been an integral part of the Portuguese postal system since the mid-19th century, and it adheres to international postal regulations through Portugal's membership in the UPU.
- Issued stamps
- 1868–present
- Region
- Europe, Southern Europe
- Currency
- EUR
- Languages
- Portuguese
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- Portugal
About Madeira stamps
Stamps issued for Madeira predominantly feature the Portuguese language and have historically reflected Portuguese currency denominations, though they often possess distinct local themes. While administratively part of Portugal, Madeira maintains a degree of autonomy, which has occasionally been reflected in specific local postal issues or surcharges, particularly during periods of evolving self-governance.
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.
- MADEIRA
How to identify Madeira stamps
- Look for 'MADEIRA' overprints or inscriptions on stamps that are otherwise identical to Portuguese issues.
- Examine the designs for local Madeiran themes such as Funchal scenery, local flora (e.g., orchids), or historical figures associated with the island.
- Check the currency denominations, which historically followed Portuguese currency (Reis, Escudos, then Euros).
Popular series
-
Crown Issue
1868-1880s
The first stamps issued specifically for Madeira, featuring the Portuguese Crown design, often overprinted 'MADEIRA'.
-
King Carlos I Issues
1892-1906
Stamps featuring the portrait of King Carlos I, often with specific Madeira overprints or surcharges.
-
Republica Issues
1910-1920s
Following the establishment of the Portuguese Republic, stamps bearing 'REPUBLICA' overprints or new designs, some specifically for Madeira.
-
Local Scenery and Culture
Various
Later issues often depict local Madeiran landscapes, flora, fauna, and cultural elements, distinguishing them from mainland Portuguese stamps.
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–€10
- Scarce stamps
- €50–€5,000+
Early issues, especially those with specific Madeira overprints or surcharges, can be quite valuable. Condition, cancellations, and rarity of specific printings significantly impact value. Later definitive issues are generally more common.
Catalogs. Madeira 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 Madeira stamps
Madeira stamps are postage stamps issued for the autonomous Portuguese archipelago of Madeira. While part of the Portuguese postal system, Madeira has had distinct stamp issues, often featuring 'MADEIRA' overprints or unique designs reflecting local themes, particularly from 1868 onwards.
The value of Madeira stamps varies widely. Early issues, especially those from the 19th and early 20th centuries with specific Madeira overprints, can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to thousands of Euros depending on rarity and condition. Later definitive issues are generally more common and less valuable, typically in the €0.50 - €10 range.
To identify Madeira stamps, look for the inscription 'MADEIRA' or overprints on Portuguese stamps. Many issues also feature distinct local Madeiran scenery, historical figures, or cultural elements. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Madeira stamps are listed in all major international philatelic catalogs, including Scott (often under Portugal or a separate Madeira section), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated values.
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