Mozambique Stamps
Mozambique is a nation situated in Southeast Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean. Its postal history is deeply rooted in Portuguese colonial administration, which heavily influenced early stamp issues until independence in 1975.
- Issued stamps
- 1876–2019
- Region
- Africa, Southern Africa
- Currency
- MZN
- Languages
- Portuguese
- Issuer type
- Modern postal administration
- Part of
- Portugal
About Mozambique stamps
Following independence, the country became a member of the Universal Postal Union and stamps predominantly feature Portuguese inscriptions. The transition from colonial rule to a socialist state and subsequent civil conflict are reflected in the evolving themes and political imagery found on its philatelic output.
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.
- MOÇAMBIQUE
- COLONIA DE MOÇAMBIQUE
How to identify Mozambique stamps
- Look for 'MOÇAMBIQUE' or 'COLONIA DE MOÇAMBIQUE' as the primary country inscription.
- Early issues often feature Portuguese monarchs or colonial allegories. Post-independence stamps display national symbols, wildlife, and socialist-era themes.
- Watermarks (e.g., crown, Portuguese shield) can be crucial for identifying specific colonial issues and varieties.
Popular series
-
King Carlos I Issues
1898-1910
Early definitive issues featuring King Carlos I, often overprinted for various colonial territories.
-
Vasco da Gama Commemoratives
1898
Stamps commemorating the 400th anniversary of Vasco da Gama's discovery of the sea route to India, highly sought after.
-
Independence Issues
1975
The first stamps issued after gaining independence from Portugal, reflecting national symbols and aspirations.
-
Wildlife and Nature Themes
1980s-Present
A popular ongoing theme showcasing Mozambique's rich biodiversity, often colorful and attractive.
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
- $0.20–$5
- Scarce stamps
- $50–$5,000+
Common stamps from Mozambique are generally inexpensive, especially post-independence issues. However, early colonial issues, particularly those from the 19th century, errors, and certain commemorative sets (like the Vasco da Gama series), can command significant prices. Condition is paramount for higher values.
Catalogs. Mozambique 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 Mozambique stamps
Mozambique stamps are postage stamps issued by the nation of Mozambique, located in Southeast Africa. They include issues from its period as a Portuguese colony (starting 1876) and its independent era (from 1975 onwards). Early stamps often bear Portuguese inscriptions and depict colonial themes, while later issues reflect national identity, wildlife, and cultural heritage.
The value of Mozambique stamps varies widely. Many common post-independence issues are inexpensive. However, early colonial stamps, particularly those from the 19th century, stamps with errors or varieties, and specific commemorative sets (like the 1898 Vasco da Gama series), can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to thousands of dollars. Condition plays a significant role in determining value.
To identify Mozambique stamps, look for the country name 'MOÇAMBIQUE' or 'COLONIA DE MOÇAMBIQUE'. Examine the design for Portuguese monarchs, colonial symbols, or later, national emblems, wildlife, and local scenes. Watermarks and perforations are also key identifiers for older issues. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Mozambique stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (Volume 4 for Africa), the Michel Katalog (Africa), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, as well as specialized Portuguese colonial catalogs.
Not sure where
it's from?
Photograph the stamp and Stamp Identifier names the issuer, the year and the series. One identification every 24 hours is free; prices and listings need Premium.