Spanish Tangier Stamps
Spanish Tangier was an international zone located on the northern coast of Africa, specifically in North Africa, administered under a unique international statute until 1956. Its postal history is characterized by issues from the Spanish administration, often reflecting its unique status as a zone under international control rather than a standard colony.
- Issued stamps
- 1909–1949
- Region
- Africa, North Africa
- Currency
- ESP
- Languages
- Spanish
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- Spain
About Spanish Tangier stamps
Stamps from this period predominantly feature Spanish language and currency, reflecting the Spanish Protectorate's administrative role. Following the reintegration into Morocco, the postal system transitioned, ending the distinct issues of the Tangier Zone.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- TANGER
- TANGER ESPAÑOL
How to identify Spanish Tangier stamps
- Look for 'TANGER' or 'TANGER ESPAÑOL' overprints on Spanish stamps.
- Examine the design for Spanish monarchs (Alfonso XIII) or republican symbols.
- Check for Spanish currency denominations (pesetas, céntimos).
Popular series
-
Alfonso XIII Issues
1909-1927
Early issues featuring King Alfonso XIII of Spain, often overprinted 'TANGER' or 'TANGER ESPAÑOL'.
-
Republic Issues
1931-1936
Stamps of the Spanish Republic, sometimes overprinted for use in Tangier.
-
Franco Regime Issues
1938-1949
Stamps of the Franco regime, often overprinted or specifically issued for Spanish Tangier.
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
- €0.50–€5
- Scarce stamps
- €50–€500+
Common stamps are inexpensive. Rarer issues include varieties, errors, and early overprints, especially those with specific control marks or scarce denominations. Condition significantly impacts value.
Catalogs. Spanish Tangier 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 Spanish Tangier stamps
Spanish Tangier stamps are postage stamps issued for the International Zone of Tangier under Spanish administration, primarily from 1909 to 1949. These were often Spanish stamps overprinted with 'TANGER' or 'TANGER ESPAÑOL' to denote their specific use in the international zone.
The value of Spanish Tangier stamps varies widely. Common issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from €0.50 to €5. However, rare varieties, early overprints, errors, and stamps in pristine condition can fetch significantly higher prices, from €50 to over €500.
To identify Spanish Tangier stamps, look for the distinctive 'TANGER' or 'TANGER ESPAÑOL' overprints on stamps that are otherwise Spanish in design. You can also use a stamp identification app by taking a picture of the stamp, which can help recognize the design and overprint. Pay attention to the language (Spanish) and currency (pesetas, céntimos).
Spanish Tangier stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott (under Spanish Colonies or Morocco, Spanish), Michel (under Spanien / Spanisch-Marokko / Tanger), and Stanley Gibbons (under Spanish Morocco / Tangier).
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