Obock Stamps
Obock, a small coastal territory located in the Horn of Africa, was historically significant as the initial French foothold in the region. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to French colonial administration, primarily serving as a key port for the French Somaliland protectorate.
- Issued stamps
- 1892–1894
- Region
- Africa, East Africa
- Currency
- FRF
- Languages
- French
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- France
About Obock stamps
Stamps issued for Obock typically feature French text and denominations in French colonial currency, reflecting its status as a French possession before being absorbed into French Somaliland. The territory's administrative status shifted over time, culminating in its integration into the larger French Somaliland entity.
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.
- OBOCK
How to identify Obock stamps
- Look for 'OBOCK' overprints on stamps of French Colonies or France.
- Denominations are typically in French colonial currency (centimes, francs).
- Examine the overprint for variations in font, size, and position, which can indicate different printings or errors.
- Check for watermarks and perforations consistent with French colonial issues of the period.
Popular series
-
Navigation and Commerce
1892
Overprinted stamps of French Colonies 'Navigation and Commerce' series with 'OBOCK' and new values.
-
Type Sage
1893-1894
Stamps of France 'Type Sage' overprinted with 'OBOCK' and new values, often featuring surcharges.
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
- $5–$50
- Scarce stamps
- $100–$1,000+
Values vary significantly based on the specific overprint, surcharge, condition, and rarity of the base stamp. Early issues and those with rare overprint errors or varieties can command high prices. Used stamps are often less valuable than unused, but genuine postal usage can add interest.
Catalogs. Obock 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 Obock stamps
Obock stamps are postage stamps issued for the French colonial territory of Obock in the Horn of Africa between 1892 and 1894. They typically consist of stamps from French Colonies or France overprinted with 'OBOCK' and new denominations, reflecting its status as a French possession before being absorbed into French Somaliland.
The value of Obock stamps can range from a few dollars for common issues to hundreds or even thousands of dollars for rare varieties, specific overprints, or stamps in pristine condition. Factors like the base stamp, the specific overprint, condition, and rarity significantly influence their market price.
To identify Obock stamps, look for the distinctive 'OBOCK' overprint on stamps that are clearly French in design or origin. Pay attention to the denomination, the base stamp's design (e.g., 'Navigation and Commerce' or 'Type Sage'), and any surcharges. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Obock stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under French Colonies or Djibouti), Michel (Germany), and Stanley Gibbons (Great Britain). These catalogs provide detailed listings, historical context, and estimated values for various issues.
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