Congo Free State stamps are issues from the French colony of that name in central Africa. The official name of the area was ÉTAT INDÉPENDANT DU CONGO, which is the name inscribed on a series of stamps from 1886 to 1898. Hobbyists who want one stamp from each African (or worldwide) colony, or from France-related places, or from each African issuer in history, can hunt for great Congo Free State stamps that fit into their collections.
Designs and Rarities of Congo Free State Stamps
Early Congo Free State stamps featured King Leopold II in their designs. In ensuing years there were some striking scenes from colonial Africa on the postage stamps. Despite the relatively short postal history of the Congo Free State there is quite a selection for collectors to choose from. There is quite a number of interesting stamps – and collectible covers – that appeal and that are eminently affordable. A few rare examples of premium, higher-priced collectible Congo Free State stamps give this are of the hobby some variation and make the quest for more stamps that much more rewarding.
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In 1908, the Congo Free State became Belgian Congo. Upon this changing of colonial hands, new stamps were issued for the new entity. Stamps of Congo Free State quickly became collectible even in the early years of the hobby. Nowadays, modern collectors can choose any approach they like for their own collections. Online sellers offer a range wide enough to appeal to anyone.
Buyers Take Note!
Many stamp sellers refer to État Indépendant du Congo stamps as Belgian Congo stamps. If you see the latter phrase, don’t give up. Take a closer look and see if the stamp is actually what you want.
The area that was Congo Free State is now the modern country of Democratic Republic of the Congo, a.k.a. “Congo-Kinshasa” to differentiate it from the Republic of Congo (“Congo-Brazzaville”).
