South-West Europe

This geographical division of South-Western European countries corresponds to Michel’s postage stamp catalogue. Postage stamps from South-West Europe, which includes countries such as Spain, Portugal, and Andorra, offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Andorra French 

  • The first postage stamps for French Andorra were issued on June 16, 1931.Postage.

Andorra Spanish

  • The initial issues were Spanish stamps overprinted with “ANDORRA.”

France

  • First Postage Stamp: 1849 – Known for: The “Ceres” and “Napoleon” series, some of the first and most iconic French postage stamps

Gibraltar

  • Before Gibraltar issued its own postage stamps, British and Spanish stamps were used.

Monaco

  • First Postage Stamp: 1885 – Known for: Beautiful designs and small editions, often aimed at philatelists.

Portugal

  • First Postage Stamp: 1853 – Known for: The “D. Maria II” series, one of the first editions of Portugal.

Portugal- Madeira

  • The first stamps specifically for Madeira were issued in 1868. These were Portuguese stamps overprinted with “MADEIRA”

Portugal- Azoren

  • The first stamps for the Azores were issued in 1868. These early stamps were Portuguese stamps overprinted with “AÇORES.”

Spain

  • First Postage Stamp: 1850 – Known for: The “Isabella II” series, one of the first editions of Spain.