South Kasai Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About South Kasai Stamps
South Kasai was a short-lived province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, located in the central African region. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the tumultuous period following Congolese independence in 1960, during which it briefly declared secession as part of the State of Kasai. Stamps issued during this period often reflect the political fragmentation of the early Congolese state, typically featuring French, the official language, alongside local vernaculars. The region's postal administration was ultimately reintegrated into the central Congolese system following the collapse of the secessionist movement.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Central Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1961 – 1961
- Languages:
- French, Tshiluba
- Currency:
- CDF
- Parent issuer:
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
Stamp Catalogs
South Kasai stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular South Kasai Stamp Series
Provisional Issues (1961)
Overprinted stamps of Belgian Congo or Congo (Leopoldville) with 'ETAT DU KASAI' or similar inscriptions, often crudely applied, reflecting the provisional nature of the secessionist state.
Definitive Issues (1961)
A limited number of definitive stamps were issued, typically featuring local motifs or political figures, though these are less common than the provisional overprints.
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South Kasai Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of South Kasai stamps varies significantly based on the specific overprint, its clarity, the base stamp used, and overall condition. Provisional issues, especially those with clear and authentic overprints, tend to be more sought after. Forgeries and unofficial overprints are common, which can affect market value.
How to Identify South Kasai Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying South Kasai stamps:
- 1 Look for overprints such as 'ETAT DU KASAI' or 'KASAI' on stamps originally issued by Belgian Congo or Congo (Leopoldville).
- 2 Examine the overprint for authenticity; many forgeries exist. Genuine overprints often show variations in font and placement due to their provisional nature.
- 3 Check the base stamp's original country of issue and design, as South Kasai stamps were primarily overprints.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are South Kasai stamps?
South Kasai stamps are postage stamps issued during the brief secessionist period of the State of Kasai (South Kasai) from the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1961. They primarily consist of overprinted stamps of Belgian Congo or Congo (Leopoldville).
Are South Kasai stamps valuable?
The value of South Kasai stamps can range from a few dollars for common provisional issues to several hundred dollars for rare varieties, authentic overprints, or complete sets in fine condition. Their historical significance and the prevalence of forgeries contribute to their varied market value.
How can I identify South Kasai stamps?
You can identify South Kasai stamps by looking for specific overprints like 'ETAT DU KASAI' on stamps originally from Belgian Congo or Congo (Leopoldville). Authenticity is key, so comparing them to known genuine examples is crucial. A stamp identifier app can also assist in recognizing these unique issues.
Which catalogs list South Kasai stamps?
South Kasai stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, usually under the Democratic Republic of the Congo or as a separate entity within the Congo listings for the period.
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