Spanish Sahara Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Spanish Sahara Stamps
Spanish Sahara, located in Northwest Africa, was a Spanish overseas province whose postal history is intrinsically linked to the Iberian Peninsula's colonial administration until 1975. Stamps issued during this period primarily featured Spanish text and denominations in Spanish pesetas, reflecting its status as part of the Spanish postal system. Following the Madrid Accords and the subsequent withdrawal of Spain, the territory experienced a complex political transition, leading to the cessation of Spanish postal services and the issuance of stamps by successor administrations. This transition marks a significant break in the philatelic record of the region.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- North Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1924 – 1975
- Languages:
- Spanish
- Currency:
- ESP
- Parent issuer:
- Spain
Stamp Catalogs
Spanish Sahara stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Spanish Sahara Stamp Series
Definitives with Spanish King Alfonso XIII (1924-1931)
Early definitive issues featuring the portrait of King Alfonso XIII, often overprinted for Spanish Sahara.
General Franco Definitives (1940s-1970s)
Stamps depicting General Franco, common across Spanish colonial territories during his regime.
Local Scenery and Fauna (1950s-1970s)
Issues showcasing local landscapes, flora, and fauna, reflecting the unique environment of the Sahara.
Spanish Sahara Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Spanish Sahara stamps are generally affordable. Rarer issues include early overprints, specific varieties, and high-denomination stamps, especially those in fine used condition or on cover. Errors and unissued stamps can command significant premiums.
How to Identify Spanish Sahara Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Spanish Sahara stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Sahara Español' or 'Territorios Españoles del Sahara' inscriptions.
- 2 Denominations are typically in Spanish Pesetas (Ptas or Pta).
- 3 Many stamps are overprinted Spanish issues, so check for the overprint carefully.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spanish Sahara stamps?
Spanish Sahara stamps were issued for the Spanish overseas province of Spanish Sahara, located in Northwest Africa, from 1924 until Spain's withdrawal in 1975. They primarily featured Spanish text and denominations in Spanish pesetas, reflecting its status as part of the Spanish postal system.
Are Spanish Sahara stamps valuable?
The value of Spanish Sahara stamps varies. Common issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from €0.50 to €5. However, rarer stamps, such as early overprints, specific varieties, high denominations, or those in pristine condition, can fetch significantly higher prices, potentially from €50 to over €500. Factors like condition, rarity, and historical significance influence their value.
How can I identify Spanish Sahara stamps?
You can identify Spanish Sahara stamps by looking for inscriptions like 'Sahara Español' or 'Territorios Españoles del Sahara' and denominations in Spanish Pesetas. Many are also Spanish stamps overprinted for colonial use. For quick and accurate identification, consider using a stamp identifier app that can analyze images of your stamps.
Which catalogs list Spanish Sahara stamps?
Spanish Sahara stamps are well-documented in major international stamp catalogs. You can find listings for them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Catalogue, and the Stanley Gibbons Catalogue, among others. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated values.
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