United Nations, New York Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About United Nations, New York Stamps
The United Nations Headquarters in New York City is a unique entity situated on international territory within North America, though it is not a sovereign nation. As the seat of the world's foremost intergovernmental organization, its postal facility operates under the authority of the United States Postal Service but issues its own distinctive definitive and commemorative stamps for official mail. These issues primarily feature English, reflecting the UN's working language, alongside French and occasionally Spanish, and are crucial for franking mail related to international diplomacy and administration. The postal history is defined by the organization's establishment in 1945 and its ongoing role as a global administrative hub.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1951 – present
- Languages:
- English, French, Spanish
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
United Nations, New York stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular United Nations, New York Stamp Series
Definitive Series (1951-Present)
The initial and ongoing series featuring UN symbols, headquarters, and themes of peace and international cooperation.
Human Rights Series (1968-Present)
Commemorative issues highlighting various aspects of human rights and related UN declarations.
Peacekeeping Operations (1980s-Present)
Stamps dedicated to the UN's peacekeeping missions and their contributions to global stability.
United Nations, New York Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Most common UN New York stamps are readily available at face value or slightly above. Early issues, first day covers, and specific commemorative sets in pristine condition can command higher prices. Errors or varieties are rare and highly sought after.
How to Identify United Nations, New York Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying United Nations, New York stamps:
- 1 Look for 'UNITED NATIONS' or 'NATIONS UNIES' inscription, often with 'NEW YORK' or 'UN' abbreviation.
- 2 Stamps typically feature designs related to UN themes, symbols, or headquarters buildings.
- 3 Denominations are in US Dollars (cents and dollars).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are United Nations, New York stamps?
United Nations, New York stamps are postage stamps issued by the United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA) for use at the UN Headquarters in New York City. Although the UN is not a sovereign nation, its postal facility operates under a special agreement, issuing its own stamps that are valid for mail posted from the UN Headquarters.
Are United Nations, New York stamps valuable?
While many common United Nations, New York stamps are affordable, certain early issues, commemorative sets, and stamps in pristine condition can be valuable. Rarity, condition, and demand from collectors specializing in UN philately determine their market price. Some errors or unique postal history items can be quite valuable, ranging from $50 to over $500.
How can I identify United Nations, New York stamps?
You can identify United Nations, New York stamps by looking for the inscriptions 'UNITED NATIONS' or 'NATIONS UNIES' along with 'NEW YORK' or 'UN'. The designs often depict UN symbols, the headquarters building, or themes of peace, human rights, and international cooperation. For precise identification and catalog numbers, use a reliable stamp identifier app or consult a specialized catalog.
Which catalogs list United Nations, New York stamps?
United Nations, New York stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under 'United Nations'), the Michel catalog, and the Stanley Gibbons catalog. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, denominations, and estimated values.
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