Stamps from Spain

The history of stamps in Spain provides a fascinating window into the political, social and cultural changes the country has undergone. Here is a chronological overview of the most important moments and developments in Spanish stamp history:

Early Period (1850-1873)

  • 1850: Spain introduces its first stamps on January 1, 1850. This series features a portrait of Queen Isabella II and values ​​from 6 cuartos to 10 reales. The stamps are imperforate.
  • 1851: A new series is issued with higher values ​​and the portrait of Queen Isabella II. These stamps are the first serrated stamps from Spain.
  • 1865: New stamps are issued with the portrait of Queen Isabella II, but in a different design and with values ​​in escudos.
  • 1869: After the fall of Isabella II and the establishment of the First Spanish Republic, stamps are issued with the coat of arms of Spain instead of a royal portrait.

Restoration of the Monarchy and Alfonso XII (1874-1931)

  • 1874: With the restoration of the monarchy under King Alfonso XII, new stamps are issued with his portrait.
  • 1889: After the death of Alfonso XII and during the regency of Queen Maria Christina, stamps are issued with the portrait of the young King Alfonso XIII.
  • 1901: During the reign of Alfonso XIII, several series of stamps are issued with his portrait in different designs.

Second Spanish Republic and Civil War (1931-1939)

  • 1931: With the establishment of the Second Spanish Republic, stamps are issued with republican symbols and themes, such as the Tree of Liberty and the Spanish Republic.
  • 1936-1939: During the Spanish Civil War, several stamps are issued by both the nationalist and republican sides. These stamps contain propaganda and symbols of the warring parties.

Franco Regime (1939-1975)

  • 1939: After the victory of the Nationalist forces led by General Francisco Franco, stamps are issued with Franco’s portrait and themes promoting the new dictatorship.
  • 1940-1975: During the Franco dictatorship, stamps are issued with various themes, including historical figures, cultural events and technical progress. Franco’s portrait remains a recurring theme on many stamps.

Democratic Period (1975-present)

  • 1975: After the death of Franco and the transition to democracy, Juan Carlos I becomes king of Spain. New stamps are being issued with his portrait and themes celebrating democratic changes and the return to a parliamentary monarchy.
  • 1980–present: Spain continues to issue a wide range of thematic stamps, including stamps celebrating national and international events, culture, sports and science.
  • 2000: Spain introduces the euro and starts issuing stamps in euro cents instead of Spanish pesetas.
  • 2014: After the abdication of Juan Carlos I, Felipe VI becomes king, and stamps with his portrait are issued.

Important Features of Spanish Postage Stamps

  • Royal Images: Many Spanish stamps feature portraits of kings and queens, including Isabella II, Alfonso XII, Alfonso XIII, Juan Carlos I, and Felipe VI.
  • Historical and Cultural Themes: Spanish stamps often reflect important historical and cultural events, such as the Spanish Civil War, the transition to democracy, and national holidays.
  • Propaganda and Political Symbols: During the Franco regime and the Spanish Civil War, postage stamps were used as a propaganda tool.
  • Innovation and Diversity: Modern Spanish stamps use advanced printing techniques and cover a wide range of themes.

Overview

The History of Spanish Postage Stamps provides a rich and detailed insight into the political, social and cultural evolution of Spain. From the first issue in 1850 to today’s modern, thematic issues, Spanish stamps reflect the changes and continuities in Spain’s national identity and cultural heritage. For philatelists, Spanish stamps are a fascinating collection full of historical and artistic value, and they remain an important part of Spain’s postal and cultural heritage.