The first stamps of Aden in southern Yemen were printed in 1937 and featured the dhow, a sailboat that was a traditional vital lifeline for the strategically-placed seaport. Although still a British Protectorate, it is unsurprising that this aspect of Aden culture was given first priority on its very earliest stamps.
Aden stamps featuring the dhow were issued in several denominations (rupees, annas, and pies); each denomination had its own color. Those of rose violet (5 rupees) and olive green (10 rupees) are especially valuable.
After 1937, the dhow again made it onto Aden stamps, particularly in the Quaiti area of the Protectorate in 1955 and again in 1963.
