Suez Canal Stamps
The Suez Canal Zone, though not a sovereign nation, represented a unique postal entity situated in Northeast Africa and administered under a special status related to the canal's operation. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the British presence and the international administration of the vital waterway connecting the Mediterranean and Red Seas.
- Issued stamps
- 1868–1868
- Region
- Africa, Northeast Africa
- Currency
- FRF
- Languages
- French, English
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- France
About Suez Canal stamps
Stamps issued for this zone primarily featured English and French, reflecting the international nature of the concession, and postal services ceased following the 1956 nationalization and subsequent political transitions.
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.
- CANAL DE SUEZ
- POSTES
How to identify Suez Canal stamps
- Look for the portrait of Ferdinand de Lesseps, the founder of the Suez Canal Company.
- Stamps are inscribed 'CANAL DE SUEZ' and 'POSTES'.
- Check for French currency denominations (e.g., 'Centimes').
Popular series
-
Suez Canal Company Issue
1868
The singular issue of stamps for the Suez Canal Company, featuring the head of Ferdinand de Lesseps.
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
- €50–€200
- Scarce stamps
- €500–€5,000+
The 1868 Suez Canal stamps are generally considered scarce to rare. Their value varies significantly based on condition, cancellations, and specific varieties (e.g., paper types, shades). Unused examples are particularly sought after.
Catalogs. Suez Canal 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 Suez Canal stamps
Suez Canal stamps refer to the single issue of postage stamps released in 1868 by the Suez Canal Company for use in the Suez Canal Zone. These stamps were intended for postal services related to the canal's operations and featured the portrait of Ferdinand de Lesseps.
Yes, Suez Canal stamps are generally considered valuable due to their historical significance and rarity. Common examples can fetch €50 - €200, while rare varieties, especially in fine unused condition or with specific cancellations, can be worth €500 - €5,000 or more.
Suez Canal stamps are easily identifiable by the central vignette depicting Ferdinand de Lesseps, the inscription 'CANAL DE SUEZ' at the top, and 'POSTES' at the bottom, along with French currency denominations. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Suez Canal stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under French Colonies or Egypt), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, values, and historical context.
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