Portugal Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Portugal Stamps
Portugal is a nation situated on the Iberian Peninsula in Southwestern Europe, historically renowned as one of the world's earliest and longest-lasting colonial powers. Its extensive postal history reflects its global reach, with stamps often featuring Portuguese language and imagery related to its overseas territories until decolonization in the 1970s. As a founding member of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1875, Portugal's postal administration maintained continuity through the transition from monarchy to republic in 1910. Modern Portuguese stamps primarily reflect national identity, European integration, and its historical connection to Lusophone nations.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Southwestern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1853 – present
- Languages:
- Portuguese
- Currency:
- EUR
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Stamp Catalogs
Portugal stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Portugal Stamp Series
D. Maria II and D. Pedro V 'D. Maria' Issues (1853-1867)
Portugal's first stamps, featuring the profiles of Queen Maria II and King Pedro V, often imperforate and highly sought after.
King Carlos I 'Caravel' Issues (1898-1906)
Commemorative issues for the 400th anniversary of Vasco da Gama's voyage to India, depicting caravels and other maritime themes, popular with collectors.
Republic Issues (1910-present)
Following the overthrow of the monarchy, stamps transitioned to republican themes, often featuring allegorical figures, national symbols, and later, modern cultural and historical subjects.
Portugal Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early imperforate issues, particularly those in good condition or with rare cancellations, can be very valuable. Later definitive and commemorative issues are generally affordable, with higher values for complete sets, errors, or specific varieties. Stamps from Portuguese colonies often command higher prices than those from mainland Portugal.
How to Identify Portugal Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Portugal stamps:
- 1 Look for 'PORTUGAL' or 'CORREIO' (Post) as the country name.
- 2 Early issues feature portraits of monarchs (D. Maria II, D. Pedro V, D. Luís I, D. Carlos I, D. Manuel II).
- 3 Post-1910 stamps often display republican symbols, historical figures, or modern Portuguese culture.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Portugal stamps?
Portugal stamps are postage stamps issued by the postal administration of Portugal, beginning in 1853. They reflect the nation's rich history, from its monarchical past and colonial empire to its modern republican and European identity.
Are Portugal stamps valuable?
Yes, some Portugal stamps can be quite valuable. Early imperforate issues, especially those from the 19th century featuring monarchs, can fetch significant prices. Errors, rare cancellations, and complete sets of certain series also hold higher value. Modern commemorative stamps are generally more affordable.
How can I identify Portugal stamps?
You can identify Portugal stamps by looking for the country name 'PORTUGAL' or 'CORREIO'. Early issues often feature portraits of monarchs. For precise identification, including watermarks, perforations, and specific varieties, using a stamp catalog or a stamp identifier app is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Portugal stamps?
Portugal stamps are extensively listed in all 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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