UNESCO Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Stamps
Unesco is not a sovereign country and therefore does not issue its own postage stamps; rather, it is an intergovernmental organization under the auspices of the United Nations, headquartered in Paris, France. As an international body, its philatelic representation typically appears on commemorative issues released by member states or by the United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA) in New York, Geneva, and Vienna. Stamps related to Unesco's mission usually feature themes of education, science, and culture, often bearing the organization's name in multiple official languages such as English, French, and Spanish. Its existence is defined by international cooperation rather than traditional national postal administration.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Western Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1961 – 2019
- Languages:
- English, French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Chinese
- Currency:
- issuer:unesco.overview.currencyValue
- Parent issuer:
- United Nations Postal Administration
Stamp Catalogs
UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Stamp Series
UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Ongoing (various countries))
Numerous member states issue stamps depicting World Heritage Sites, often with UNESCO's emblem or name.
International Literacy Day (Various years)
Stamps from different nations commemorating UNESCO's efforts in promoting literacy.
Anniversaries of UNESCO (e.g., 1966, 1976, 1986, 2006)
Commemorative issues by UNPA and member states marking significant milestones of the organization.
UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Stamps featuring UNESCO themes are generally valued based on the issuing country and the specific series. UNPA issues related to UNESCO can be more consistently collected. Rarity is often tied to specific errors, limited editions, or early UNPA issues.
How to Identify UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) stamps:
- 1 Look for the UNESCO logo or the full name 'United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization' (or its acronyms in various languages) on the stamp.
- 2 Themes often revolve around education, science, culture, peace, and heritage sites.
- 3 Many stamps will explicitly mention 'UNESCO' or 'UN' in their design or text.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are UNESCO stamps?
UNESCO stamps are postage stamps issued by the United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA) or by various member countries of the United Nations, commemorating the work, goals, and anniversaries of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). These stamps highlight themes related to education, science, culture, communication, and world heritage.
Are UNESCO stamps valuable?
The value of UNESCO-themed stamps varies widely. Common issues from many countries are generally inexpensive, ranging from $0.50 to $5. However, certain early UNPA issues, specific commemorative sets, or stamps with errors can be more valuable, potentially fetching $20 to over $200. Value is highly dependent on condition, rarity, and demand from collectors of specific countries or UNPA material.
How can I identify UNESCO stamps?
To identify UNESCO stamps, look for the UNESCO logo, the full name 'United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization,' or its acronyms (e.g., UNESCO, O.N.U.E.S.C.O.) printed on the stamp. The themes depicted will often relate to education, scientific achievements, cultural heritage, or international cooperation. You can also use a stamp identifier app by scanning the stamp, which can help cross-reference it with catalog data.
Which catalogs list UNESCO stamps?
UNESCO-themed stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs. Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue includes UNPA issues and relevant issues from individual countries. Michel and Stanley Gibbons also extensively cover stamps from countries that have issued UNESCO commemoratives, as well as UNPA issues. Look under the specific country of issue or the 'United Nations' section for UNPA stamps.
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