New Guinea Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About New Guinea (Australian Administration) Stamps
New Guinea, comprising the world's second-largest island, is geographically located in Oceania, specifically within the Melanesian subregion of the southwestern Pacific. Its postal history is complex, marked by successive colonial administrations including German, British, and later Australian control over various territories, leading to distinct series of stamps reflecting these sovereignties. The island's linguistic diversity is reflected on its postal issues, which often feature English, German, or local languages depending on the ruling power and specific administrative region, such as Papua or New Guinea. Significant transitions include the League of Nations and later United Nations mandates, culminating in the eventual independence of Papua New Guinea, which fundamentally altered the scope and design of its postal emissions.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Melanesia
- Issuing period:
- 1925 – 1939
- Languages:
- English, German, Tok Pisin
- Currency:
- AUD
- Parent issuer:
- Australia
Stamp Catalogs
New Guinea (Australian Administration) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular New Guinea (Australian Administration) Stamp Series
Overprinted German New Guinea Stamps (1914-1925)
Stamps of German New Guinea overprinted with 'G.R.I.' (Georgius Rex Imperator) and new values, used during the British military occupation and early Australian administration.
Kangaroo and Map Series (Australian Commonwealth Stamps Overprinted) (1925-1931)
Australian Commonwealth stamps (featuring the Kangaroo and Map design) overprinted with 'NORTH WEST PACIFIC ISLANDS' or 'NEW GUINEA' for use in the mandated territory.
Bird of Paradise Series (1932-1939)
The first definitive series specifically designed for the Mandated Territory of New Guinea, featuring the Raggiana Bird of Paradise.
New Guinea (Australian Administration) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early overprints, especially those with scarce varieties or errors, can command significant prices. The Bird of Paradise series, while popular, generally has more modest values unless in pristine condition or featuring specific plate flaws. High values and complete sets are more sought after.
How to Identify New Guinea (Australian Administration) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying New Guinea (Australian Administration) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'NEW GUINEA' or 'NORTH WEST PACIFIC ISLANDS' overprints on Australian or German colonial stamps.
- 2 The distinctive Bird of Paradise design is a key identifier for the 1932-1939 definitive issues.
- 3 Check for watermarks (e.g., Crown and A, or multiple Crown and C A) which can help differentiate issues and printings.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are New Guinea stamps?
New Guinea stamps refer to the postal emissions from the Mandated Territory of New Guinea, administered by Australia after World War I. These stamps were used from 1925 until 1939, following earlier issues from German New Guinea and British/Australian military occupation.
Are New Guinea stamps valuable?
The value of New Guinea stamps varies widely. Early overprinted issues, especially those from the military occupation or with rare varieties, can be quite valuable, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Later definitive issues, like the Bird of Paradise series, are generally more common but can still fetch good prices for complete sets, high values, or pristine condition. Condition, rarity, and specific varieties are key factors in determining value.
How can I identify New Guinea stamps?
You can identify New Guinea stamps by looking for the 'NEW GUINEA' or 'NORTH WEST PACIFIC ISLANDS' overprints on stamps that often feature Australian designs (like the Kangaroo and Map) or by recognizing the unique Bird of Paradise designs from the 1930s. Checking watermarks and perforations can also help. For quick and accurate identification, consider using a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list New Guinea stamps?
New Guinea stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Katalog (especially for German colonial and occupation issues), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue.
Not sure if your stamp is from New Guinea (Australian Administration)?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store