Spanish Guinea Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Spanish Guinea Stamps
Spanish Guinea, located on the west coast of Central Africa, was a colony of Spain until 1968. Its postal history is characterized by issues under Spanish administration, often featuring Spanish monarchs and colonial themes, with Spanish being the primary language on the stamps. The territory was unified with Río Muni and Fernando Pó to form the colony, and its postal system was integrated into the Spanish colonial network. The transition to independence in 1968 marked a significant shift in its philatelic output, moving from Spanish colonial issues to those of the newly formed nation of Equatorial Guinea.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Central Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1902 – 1959
- Languages:
- Spanish
- Currency:
- ESP
- Parent issuer:
- Spain
Stamp Catalogs
Spanish Guinea stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Spanish Guinea Stamp Series
King Alfonso XIII Issues (1902-1930s)
Early definitive issues featuring portraits of King Alfonso XIII, often overprinted for colonial use.
Colonial Scenery and Industry Issues (1930s-1950s)
Stamps depicting local landscapes, flora, fauna, and colonial industries, reflecting the territory's resources.
Franco Regime Issues (1940s-1950s)
Stamps issued during the Franco era, often featuring nationalist symbols or portraits of General Franco, sometimes overprinted for Spanish Guinea.
Spanish Guinea Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common issues are generally inexpensive. Rarer stamps include early definitive issues with specific overprints, errors, or high values, especially those in fine used or mint condition. Complete sets and specialized collections can command higher prices.
How to Identify Spanish Guinea Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Spanish Guinea stamps:
- 1 Look for 'GUINEA ESPAÑOLA' or 'GUINEA CONTINENTAL ESPAÑOLA' inscriptions.
- 2 Many stamps feature Spanish monarchs (Alfonso XIII, Franco) or colonial themes.
- 3 Early issues often share designs with other Spanish colonies but are distinguished by their specific overprints or inscriptions.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spanish Guinea stamps?
Spanish Guinea stamps are postage stamps issued for the Spanish colonial territory on the west coast of Central Africa from 1902 until 1959. They reflect the Spanish administration, often featuring Spanish monarchs, colonial themes, and Spanish language inscriptions. After 1959, the territory was integrated into Spanish Equatorial Region and later became part of Equatorial Guinea.
Are Spanish Guinea stamps valuable?
The value of Spanish Guinea stamps varies. Common issues are generally affordable, ranging from €0.50 to €10. However, rarer stamps, such as early definitive issues with specific overprints, errors, or high denominations, can be quite valuable, fetching €50 to over €500, especially in fine mint or used condition. The value depends on rarity, condition, and demand from collectors.
How can I identify Spanish Guinea stamps?
You can identify Spanish Guinea stamps by looking for inscriptions like 'GUINEA ESPAÑOLA' or 'GUINEA CONTINENTAL ESPAÑOLA'. Many stamps feature portraits of Spanish monarchs (e.g., King Alfonso XIII) or General Franco, as well as colonial imagery. Early issues often share designs with other Spanish colonies but are distinguished by their specific overprints or territorial names. For quick and accurate identification, consider using a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list Spanish Guinea stamps?
Spanish Guinea stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Deutschland-Spezial-Katalog (which covers former German and Spanish colonies), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, among others. These catalogs provide detailed listings, images, and estimated values.
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