Timor Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Timor Stamps
Timor, encompassing the eastern half of the island of Timor, is geographically situated in Maritime Southeast Asia. Its postal history is primarily defined by its long period as a Portuguese colony, which ended with the Indonesian annexation in 1976, followed by a period of United Nations administration and eventual independence in 2002. Stamps issued during the Portuguese era predominantly featured Portuguese text and iconography, while the Indonesian period saw the use of Bahasa Indonesia. The transition through these administrative phases marks significant shifts in the philatelic record, reflecting changes in sovereignty and international recognition.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1884 – 2000
- Languages:
- Portuguese, Tetum, Bahasa Indonesia
- Currency:
- PTE
- Parent issuer:
- Portugal
Stamp Catalogs
Timor stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Timor Stamp Series
King Carlos I Issues (1884-1898)
Early issues featuring the portrait of King Carlos I of Portugal, often surcharged for local use.
Vasco da Gama Commemoratives (1898)
Stamps commemorating the 400th anniversary of Vasco da Gama's discovery of the sea route to India, a common theme across Portuguese colonies.
Republica Issues (1910-1920s)
Stamps issued after the establishment of the Portuguese Republic, often overprinted on monarchical issues or featuring republican designs.
Timor Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early Portuguese colonial issues, especially those with rare surcharges or errors, can be quite valuable. Stamps from the Indonesian occupation period are generally less valuable, though complete sets or specific varieties may hold interest. Condition plays a significant role.
How to Identify Timor Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Timor stamps:
- 1 Look for 'TIMOR' or 'CORREIO' (Portuguese for Post) as primary identifiers.
- 2 Early issues often feature Portuguese monarchs or colonial allegories.
- 3 Later issues (post-1976) may bear Indonesian text and designs, sometimes with 'Timor Timur' (East Timor) inscriptions.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Timor stamps?
Timor stamps refer to postage stamps issued for use in the eastern half of the island of Timor, primarily during its period as a Portuguese colony (Portuguese Timor) from 1884 until 1976, and subsequently during its annexation by Indonesia (as Timor Timur) until 1999. These stamps reflect the region's complex colonial and political history.
Are Timor stamps valuable?
The value of Timor stamps varies widely. Early Portuguese colonial issues, especially those with rare surcharges, errors, or in pristine condition, can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to hundreds of dollars. More common issues and many stamps from the Indonesian occupation period are generally less valuable, often in the range of a few dollars. Rarity, condition, and historical significance are key factors in determining value.
How can I identify Timor stamps?
To identify Timor stamps, look for the inscription 'TIMOR' or 'CORREIO' (Portuguese for Post). Early stamps often feature Portuguese monarchs or colonial themes. Stamps from the Indonesian period will typically have Indonesian text and designs, sometimes with 'Timor Timur' inscriptions. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized stamp catalogs like Scott, Michel, or Stanley Gibbons.
Which catalogs list Timor stamps?
Timor stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (typically under 'Portuguese Timor' and 'Indonesia' for the occupation period), the Michel Katalog (under 'Portugiesisch-Timor' and 'Indonesien'), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps Catalogue (under 'Portuguese Timor').
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