Collection of Mid-20th Century African Colonial and Post-Colonial Postage Stamps
Philately / Collectible Postage Stamps

Collection of Mid-20th Century African Colonial and Post-Colonial Postage Stamps

A group of eleven assorted postage stamps primarily from former French African colonies and territories, dating from roughly the 1940s through the 1960s. The collection includes issues from Republic of Niger, Republic of Ivory Coast (Côte d'Ivoire), Republic of Upper Volta (Haute-Volta), Central African Republic, Réunion Island, and French West Africa (Afrique Occidentale Française). The stamps are printed on perforated paper and feature a variety of colors and printing methods, including line engraving and offset lithography. Subject matter varies from local architecture (Cathédrale de Bangui) and flora/fauna to cultural themes like literacy and international cooperation (UN/ILO). Several stamps exhibit circular date stamps (CDS) or 'canceled-to-order' (CTO) markings, indicating they have been used or processed for collectors. The condition appears mixed; most stamps show intact perforations, though some exhibit minor yellowing or subtle edge wear consistent with age and previous mounting in an album. There are no signs of significant tearing, but the cancelations vary in clarity. The collection represents the transitional period of African decolonization, featuring both colonial-era designs and early independence issues. Notable is a 'Centenary of Dakar' stamp (1857-1957) from French West Africa and a 'Promotion Humaine' stamp from Niger highlighting education. The craftsmanship reflects the classic European-influenced engraving style typical of 20th-century philately.

Estimated Value

$15 - $25

Basic Information

Category

Philately / Collectible Postage Stamps

Appraised On

January 20, 2026

Estimated Value

$15 - $25

Item Description

A group of eleven assorted postage stamps primarily from former French African colonies and territories, dating from roughly the 1940s through the 1960s. The collection includes issues from Republic of Niger, Republic of Ivory Coast (Côte d'Ivoire), Republic of Upper Volta (Haute-Volta), Central African Republic, Réunion Island, and French West Africa (Afrique Occidentale Française). The stamps are printed on perforated paper and feature a variety of colors and printing methods, including line engraving and offset lithography. Subject matter varies from local architecture (Cathédrale de Bangui) and flora/fauna to cultural themes like literacy and international cooperation (UN/ILO). Several stamps exhibit circular date stamps (CDS) or 'canceled-to-order' (CTO) markings, indicating they have been used or processed for collectors. The condition appears mixed; most stamps show intact perforations, though some exhibit minor yellowing or subtle edge wear consistent with age and previous mounting in an album. There are no signs of significant tearing, but the cancelations vary in clarity. The collection represents the transitional period of African decolonization, featuring both colonial-era designs and early independence issues. Notable is a 'Centenary of Dakar' stamp (1857-1957) from French West Africa and a 'Promotion Humaine' stamp from Niger highlighting education. The craftsmanship reflects the classic European-influenced engraving style typical of 20th-century philately.

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