South Yemen Stamps
South Yemen, officially the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen, was located in the southern Arabian Peninsula, encompassing the former British Aden Colony and Protectorate. Its postal history is marked by the transition from British colonial administration, culminating in independence in 1967 and subsequent unification with North Yemen in 1990.
- Issued stamps
- 1968–1990
- Region
- Middle East, Arabian Peninsula
- Currency
- Yemeni Dinar (YDD)
- Languages
- Arabic, English
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
About South Yemen stamps
Stamps from this period predominantly feature Arabic script, reflecting the official language, alongside occasional English inscriptions from the earlier Aden period. The country's brief existence as a socialist state significantly influenced the themes and iconography present on its definitive and commemorative issues.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify South Yemen stamps
- Look for 'People's Democratic Republic of Yemen' or 'South Yemen' in Arabic script (جمهورية اليمن الديمقراطية الشعبية) and sometimes English.
- Stamps issued between 1968 and 1990, often featuring socialist iconography, national symbols, or local themes.
- Earlier issues may bear 'Aden' or 'Federation of South Arabia' overprints or designs, preceding the South Yemen designation.
Popular series
-
Definitives with National Emblems
1968-1970s
Early definitive issues featuring the national emblem, often depicting a dhow or the coat of arms, reflecting the newly independent state's identity.
-
Anniversaries and International Events
1970s-1980s
Commemorative stamps marking significant national anniversaries, international solidarity, and socialist themes, common for the era.
-
Flora and Fauna
1970s-1980s
A popular thematic series showcasing the natural wildlife and plant life of the region, often with vibrant designs.
-
Cultural Heritage and Development
1970s-1980s
Stamps highlighting the rich cultural heritage, archaeological sites, and the nation's efforts in economic and social development.
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
- $0.20–$5
- Scarce stamps
- $20–$200+
Most common South Yemen stamps are inexpensive, especially used. Complete sets and unmounted mint condition stamps, particularly early issues or those with printing varieties, can fetch higher prices. Errors or scarce commemoratives are the most valuable.
Catalogs. South Yemen 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 South Yemen stamps
South Yemen stamps were issued by the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen from its independence in 1967 (with first issues in 1968) until its unification with North Yemen in 1990. They reflect the country's socialist period and its unique cultural and political identity.
While many common South Yemen stamps are readily available and inexpensive, certain complete sets, unmounted mint issues, and specific commemorative series can hold moderate value. Rarer errors or varieties can be quite valuable, sometimes reaching hundreds of dollars. Condition significantly impacts value.
South Yemen stamps typically feature inscriptions in Arabic, often including 'جمهورية اليمن الديمقراطية الشعبية' (People's Democratic Republic of Yemen), and sometimes English. They were issued between 1968 and 1990. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
South Yemen stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated market values.
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