From 1885 to 1889, Costa Rica overprinted its own stamps with the word GUANACASTE. The stamps were intended for the residents of the province called Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica. Interestingly for modern collectors, Guanacaste stamps were valid only for use within the province. Buyers of regional issues must have at least one Guanacaste postage stamp in their collections.
Why Guanacaste Stamps Were Made
Guanacaste had long been wavering back and forth, culturally and economically, between Costa Rica and Nicaragua, and these stamps may have served as an attempt by Costa Rica to strengthen its connection with the province. (These stamps were available at a discount to Guanacaste residents.)
In addition to the Guanacaste stamps themselves, letters and cards sent within, to, or from the province may also prove appealing to collectors. Of course this is especially if they use one of the overprinted provincial stamps with a cancellation stamp.
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Buying and Collecting Guanacaste Stamps
A variety of typefaces was used for the overprints, and collectors can work to achieve a complete set of the different ones. Both mixed-case and upper-case varieties of overprints exist for Guanacaste stamps, yielding more collectibles. The GUANACASTE overprints were done both vertically (so you have to tilt your head to the side to read them) and horizontally. Varieties exist in different colors of ink; black is most common but be on the lookout for red, too.
Sellers online who offer Guanacaste stamps for sale are very numerous. Buyers and philatelists are lucky. Some great example of Guanacaste stamps, still in excellent condition, can be found and don’t have to break the bank. It’s a great opportunity to add some interesting and fairly obscure stamps to your Costa Rica collection.
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When you’re considering buying a stamp online (Guanacaste or anything else) try to make sure the vendor includes a high-quality scan of the item. Check it closely to make sure all looks ok. Also try to buy from sellers who have strong feedback ratings from other buyers. You may also want to see what their returns policy is. Shipping should be not too expensive, but remember that many good Guanacaste stamps may be sent from Costa Rica itself, and optional insurance may be worth paying for.
Check out the current sales listings for Guanacaste stamps online, and have fun finding the varieties that you want for your own collection!
