U.S. Cuba Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About U.S. Administration of Cuba Stamps
U.S. Cuba refers to the period of American military occupation and administration of the island nation in the Caribbean following the Spanish-American War. During this time, from 1898 to 1902, the postal system was managed by the U.S. Post Office Department, resulting in the overprinting of existing Spanish colonial stamps with "U.S. Occupation" or "U.S. Administration." The stamps issued during this transitional phase primarily feature Spanish and English text, reflecting the shift in administrative control from Spain to the United States before Cuba achieved formal independence. This era is a critical juncture in Cuban philately, marking the end of Spanish colonial issues and the beginning of sovereign Cuban postal authority.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- Caribbean
- Issuing period:
- 1898 – 1899
- Languages:
- Spanish, English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
U.S. Administration of Cuba stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular U.S. Administration of Cuba Stamp Series
Spanish Colonial Stamps Overprinted 'U.S. Occupation' (1898)
Existing Spanish colonial stamps of Cuba overprinted with 'U.S. Occupation' in various styles, marking the immediate aftermath of the Spanish-American War.
Spanish Colonial Stamps Overprinted 'U.S. Administration' (1899)
Further issues of Spanish colonial stamps overprinted with 'U.S. Administration' and new values, reflecting the ongoing American control.
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U.S. Administration of Cuba Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on the original Spanish stamp, the specific overprint (type, color, position), and condition. Errors and varieties of overprints can command higher prices. Mint never hinged examples are scarcer.
How to Identify U.S. Administration of Cuba Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying U.S. Administration of Cuba stamps:
- 1 Look for 'U.S. Occupation' or 'U.S. Administration' overprints on stamps originally issued by Spanish Colonial Cuba.
- 2 Examine the original Spanish stamp design, which typically features portraits of Spanish monarchs (e.g., Alfonso XIII) or allegorical figures.
- 3 Note the language on the overprint, which is primarily English, contrasting with the Spanish text of the underlying stamp.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are U.S. Cuba stamps?
U.S. Cuba stamps refer to the postal issues used during the period of American military occupation and administration of Cuba, from 1898 to 1899. These stamps are primarily Spanish colonial issues of Cuba that were overprinted with 'U.S. Occupation' or 'U.S. Administration' to signify the change in postal authority after the Spanish-American War.
Are U.S. Cuba stamps valuable?
The value of U.S. Cuba stamps varies. Common examples can be found for $5-$50, while rarer varieties, specific overprint types, errors, or stamps in pristine condition can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Factors like the original stamp's rarity, the overprint's clarity, and overall condition significantly impact their market value.
How can I identify U.S. Cuba stamps?
To identify U.S. Cuba stamps, look for the distinctive 'U.S. Occupation' or 'U.S. Administration' overprints on stamps that were originally issued by Spanish Colonial Cuba. These underlying stamps often depict Spanish monarchs or allegorical figures. You can also use a stamp identifier app, which can help recognize the specific overprints and underlying designs.
Which catalogs list U.S. Cuba stamps?
U.S. Cuba stamps are well-documented in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (typically under 'Cuba' or 'U.S. Possessions'), Michel (under 'Kuba'), and Stanley Gibbons (under 'Cuba'). These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values.
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