Portuguese India Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Portuguese India Stamps
Portuguese India, situated on the western coast of the Indian subcontinent, comprised several distinct territories including Goa, Daman, and Diu. As a long-standing colony of Portugal, its postal system was administered by the Portuguese Ministry of Overseas Territories, issuing stamps denominated in Portuguese currency until the territory's integration into India in 1961. Stamps from this region predominantly feature Portuguese inscriptions, often alongside local language elements, reflecting the colonial administration's linguistic policies. The postal history is marked by the transition from a long colonial presence to its eventual incorporation into the Republic of India, leading to the cessation of Portuguese India's separate postal issues.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southern Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1871 – 1962
- Languages:
- Portuguese, Konkani, Marathi, Gujarati
- Currency:
- PTE
- Parent issuer:
- Portugal
Stamp Catalogs
Portuguese India stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Portuguese India Stamp Series
Crown Issue (1871-1876)
The first stamps of Portuguese India, featuring the Portuguese Crown emblem, often found with various overprints and surcharges.
Vasco da Gama Commemorative (1898)
Issued to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Vasco da Gama's arrival in India, these stamps are highly sought after for their historical significance and artistic design.
Republica Issue (1910-1912)
Following the establishment of the Portuguese Republic, stamps were overprinted 'REPUBLICA' or new designs were issued, marking a political transition.
Portuguese India Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are generally affordable, especially later issues. Early issues, particularly the first Crown issues with specific cancellations or errors, and certain commemorative sets (like Vasco da Gama), can fetch significant prices. Condition plays a crucial role in value.
How to Identify Portuguese India Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Portuguese India stamps:
- 1 Look for 'INDIA PORTUGUEZA' or 'ESTADO DA INDIA' inscriptions.
- 2 Stamps are typically denominated in Reis, Tanga, or Rupias (Rupees) before 1959, and then Escudos.
- 3 Many stamps feature Portuguese royal or republican emblems, or local Indian imagery.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Portuguese India stamps?
Portuguese India stamps were issued by the Portuguese colonial administration for use in its territories on the Indian subcontinent, including Goa, Daman, and Diu, from 1871 until their integration into India in 1961.
Are Portuguese India stamps valuable?
The value of Portuguese India stamps varies widely. While many common issues are inexpensive, early stamps, particularly the first Crown issues, commemorative sets like the Vasco da Gama series, and stamps with rare overprints or errors, can be quite valuable, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
How can I identify Portuguese India stamps?
You can identify Portuguese India stamps by looking for inscriptions such as 'INDIA PORTUGUEZA' or 'ESTADO DA INDIA'. They often feature Portuguese national symbols or local Indian motifs. For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog.
Which catalogs list Portuguese India stamps?
Portuguese India stamps are extensively listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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