The 1878 Egyptian surcharged stamps are a fascinating issue in philatelic history, offering collectors an array of varieties to study and appreciate. These stamps were originally part of Egypt’s regular postal issues but were later surcharged to meet the demand for lower denominations. This resulted in a range of errors, misprints, and collectible variations that make them particularly interesting for stamp enthusiasts.
This guide will provide a detailed breakdown of the varieties associated with these surcharged stamps, making it easier for collectors to identify and understand the key differences.
Background: The Need for Surcharged Stamps
- By the late 19th century, Egypt required lower denomination stamps to facilitate domestic and international postage.
- Instead of printing entirely new stamps, authorities opted to apply surcharges on existing higher-value stamps, effectively reusing stock.
- These surcharges were printed at Bulaq, Cairo, using a typographic process, which led to multiple errors and variations during production.
- The surcharges included 5 paras and 10 paras, applied to the 2½ piastre violet stamp from the standard Egyptian issue.
The Key Varieties of the 1878 Surcharged Stamps
1. Standard Surcharges (5 Paras and 10 Paras on 2½ Piastre Violet)
- The most common versions of these stamps feature a black surcharge applied in a standard upright position.
- The overprint reads “PARAS” vertically along the left, with a large numerical value (5 or 10) in the center.
- These are relatively affordable and can be found in both mint and used conditions.
2. Inverted Surcharges
- A common error in early overprinted stamps is the inverted surcharge, where the entire overprint was mistakenly applied upside down.
- Both 5 paras and 10 paras exist in inverted form.
- These are significantly more valuable, with some catalogue values reaching £85-£160 depending on the denomination and condition.
3. Tête-Bêche Pairs
- Tête-bêche means “head to tail”, referring to a pair of stamps where one is printed upside down relative to the other.
- These rare varieties occur due to misalignment during the printing process.
- Tête-bêche pairs for both 5 paras and 10 paras surcharges are exceptionally rare, with catalogue prices exceeding £5,000.
4. Imperforate Pairs
- Some examples exist without perforations, either due to errors or proof copies.
- These imperforate pairs are very rare, commanding prices around £1,200 in catalogues.
5. Type 9a Surcharge with Guide Marks
- Some of the earliest prints feature small guide marks in the corners of the overprint.
- These guide marks were intended to align the surcharge correctly, but some were left visible on final prints.
- Collectors recognize these as Type 9a varieties, which are more desirable than standard surcharges.
6. Perforation Variations
- The regular issue was perforated 12½, but some exist with mixed perforations, such as 12½ × 13½.
- These perforation differences result from adjustments made during the production process.
- Perforation varieties add another layer of collectability to this issue, with mixed perforations valued slightly higher.
7. Watermark Inversions
- While most stamps were printed with the correct watermark orientation, some exist with an inverted watermark.
- These are relatively uncommon but not as rare as other errors like tête-bêche pairs.
- Watermark-inverted versions of both 5 paras and 10 paras are listed in catalogues with a small premium.
Market Value and Collector Interest
These surcharged stamps continue to attract strong collector demand, particularly for the rarer varieties. Below are some approximate catalogue values:
- Standard surcharges – £8.50 mint or used.
- Inverted surcharge – £85-£160 depending on the denomination.
- Tête-Bêche pairs – £5,000 for both 5 paras and 10 paras.
- Imperforate pairs – £1,200.
- Type 9a guide mark surcharge – £120.
- Perforation variety (12½ × 13½) – £9.50-£11.
- Watermark inverted – £15-£30.
Note: These values fluctuate based on the stamp’s condition, centering, and demand in auctions.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for Collectors
The 1878 Egyptian surcharged stamps are an excellent addition to any collection, especially for those interested in:
- Overprinted and surcharged issues
- Classic Egyptian philately
- Rare printing errors and varieties
With their numerous varieties, misprints, and production quirks, these stamps provide endless opportunities for study and appreciation. Whether you’re seeking an affordable mint copy or a high-value tête-bêche pair, these stamps offer historical significance and collector appeal.