Netherlands Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Netherlands Stamps
The Netherlands, situated in Western Europe, possesses a rich postal history deeply intertwined with its extensive colonial empire, particularly in Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, which necessitated complex international postal arrangements. As a founding member of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1875, Dutch philately reflects a long commitment to international postal standards. Stamps predominantly feature the Dutch language, though issues for former colonies or specific territories sometimes include local languages or bilingual text. The transition from the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the modern nation-state, including the dissolution of the Dutch East Indies, marks significant shifts in the scope and focus of its postal administration and stamp issues.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Western Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1852 – present
- Languages:
- Dutch
- Currency:
- EUR
- issuer:netherlands.overview.parentIssuer:
- issuer:netherlands.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Netherlands stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Netherlands Stamp Series
King William III (1852-1898)
The first stamps of the Netherlands, featuring the portrait of King William III, issued in various denominations and designs over several decades.
Queen Wilhelmina (1898-1948)
A long-running series depicting Queen Wilhelmina, with numerous definitive issues, including the famous 'fur collar' and 'roller skate' designs, reflecting her long reign.
Summer Stamps (Zomerzegels) (1930s-Present)
Annual semi-postal issues with surcharges benefiting charitable causes, often featuring artistic designs related to Dutch culture, nature, or social themes.
Netherlands Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, especially the first King William III stamps in fine condition or on cover, can be quite valuable. Errors, varieties, and specific colonial issues also command higher prices. Modern definitive stamps are generally inexpensive, while certain commemorative and semi-postal issues can hold moderate value.
How to Identify Netherlands Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Netherlands stamps:
- 1 Look for the country name 'NEDERLAND' or 'HOLLAND' (on older issues) clearly printed on the stamp.
- 2 Early issues often feature portraits of monarchs (William III, Wilhelmina, Juliana, Beatrix, Willem-Alexander).
- 3 Watermarks (e.g., posthorn, crown, circles) are crucial for identifying specific printings and varieties, especially for 19th and early 20th-century stamps.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Netherlands stamps?
Netherlands stamps are postage stamps issued by the postal administration of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, starting in 1852. They reflect the country's rich history, culture, and its past colonial ties, featuring a wide range of designs from monarch portraits to modern art and social themes.
Are Netherlands stamps valuable?
The value of Netherlands stamps varies significantly. Early issues, particularly the first stamps of King William III, and certain colonial issues, can be quite valuable, especially in fine condition or with rare cancellations. Many common modern stamps have minimal value, but specific commemoratives, semi-postals, errors, and varieties can be highly sought after by collectors, ranging from a few euros to several thousands.
How can I identify Netherlands stamps?
You can identify Netherlands stamps by looking for the country name 'NEDERLAND' or 'HOLLAND' (on older issues). Key identifiers include portraits of Dutch monarchs, specific watermarks, and unique design elements. For precise identification and catalog numbers, you can use a stamp identifier app that scans your stamp and provides detailed information.
Which catalogs list Netherlands stamps?
Netherlands stamps are extensively listed in all major international stamp catalogs. The Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, Michel Katalog (especially for European issues), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps Catalogue (for colonial issues) are excellent resources. Specialized Dutch catalogs also exist for more in-depth information.
Not sure if your stamp is from Netherlands?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store