Papua Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Papua (Australian Territory) Stamps
Papua, comprising the southeastern portion of the island of New Guinea, is geographically situated in Oceania, specifically within the Melanesian subregion. Its postal history is deeply rooted in its status as an Australian territory, initially managed by the British administration before being transferred to Australian control, leading to stamps often featuring English text and denominations in Australian currency equivalents. The region experienced significant administrative changes, particularly during and after World War II, which impacted the continuity and design of its postal issues before its eventual integration into the independent nation of Papua New Guinea.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Melanesia
- Issuing period:
- 1906 – 1939
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- AUD
- Parent issuer:
- Australia
Stamp Catalogs
Papua (Australian Territory) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Papua (Australian Territory) Stamp Series
Small Papua Series (1906-1907)
The first definitive series, featuring the 'Papua' overprint on stamps of British New Guinea, depicting a native village scene.
Lakatoi Series (1907-1932)
A long-running definitive series featuring a traditional Papuan sailing canoe (lakatoi), often with King Edward VII or King George V portraits.
Anniversary of British Annexation (1938)
A commemorative series marking the 50th anniversary of British annexation, depicting various local scenes and historical figures.
Papua (Australian Territory) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available. Early issues, high values, and stamps with specific overprints or errors can command significant prices. Condition, especially for mint examples, heavily influences value.
How to Identify Papua (Australian Territory) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Papua (Australian Territory) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'PAPUA' inscription, often at the top or bottom of the stamp.
- 2 Denominations are typically in Australian currency (pence, shillings, pounds).
- 3 Early issues may be overprints on 'British New Guinea' stamps.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Papua stamps?
Papua stamps were issued for the Australian territory of Papua, located in the southeastern part of New New Guinea, between 1906 and 1939. They reflect the region's colonial history under Australian administration.
Are Papua stamps valuable?
The value of Papua stamps varies widely. Common issues are generally affordable, ranging from $1 to $20. However, rare stamps, particularly early issues, high denominations, or those with specific varieties, can be quite valuable, fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
How can I identify Papua stamps?
You can identify Papua stamps by looking for the 'PAPUA' inscription, typically in English, and denominations in Australian currency. Many feature distinctive local imagery such as the Lakatoi canoe. For precise identification and catalog numbers, use a stamp identifier app or consult a specialized catalog.
Which catalogs list Papua stamps?
Papua stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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