On January 28, 1967, Algeria issued a four-stamp set showcasing prehistoric cave paintings from the Tassili N’Ajjer region. These ancient rock engravings, dating back thousands of years, provide valuable insight into early human civilization in North Africa.
Stamp Details
- Issue Date: January 28, 1967
- Printing Method: Offset printing (Odr.)
- Perforation: 11½
Breakdown of Stamps
- 1.00 Dinar – Cow engraving
- 2.00 Dinar – Antelope from the so-called Horse Period
- 2.00 Dinar – Battle between archers
- 3.00 Dinar – Warrior figure
Set Pricing
- Individual Prices:
- 1.00 Dinar: Mint – 5.00 | Used – 2.50
- 2.00 Dinar (Antelope): Mint – 7.50 | Used – 5.00
- 2.00 Dinar (Archers): Mint – 7.50 | Used – 5.00
- 3.00 Dinar: Mint – 10.00 | Used – 7.00
- Set Price (4 stamps): 30.00 (Mint) | 19.00 (Used)
Historical Significance
The Tassili N’Ajjer plateau, located in the Sahara Desert, is home to some of the world’s most significant prehistoric rock art, with engravings dating back over 10,000 years. These paintings provide evidence of:
- Early Saharan wildlife, including now-extinct species.
- Human activities, such as hunting, rituals, and early domestication.
- Cultural shifts, including transitions from a humid environment to today’s arid desert.
These UNESCO-listed petroglyphs serve as a testament to North Africa’s ancient history and its early inhabitants.
Collector’s Insights
- The 3.00 Dinar Warrior stamp (go) is the highest-valued, likely due to its iconic design and historical importance.
- The Antelope and Archers stamps (2.00 Dinar each) are equally valuable, reflecting their prehistoric cultural significance.
- This issue is highly sought-after by collectors interested in archaeology, African heritage, and prehistoric art.
Final Thoughts
The 1967 Algeria Tassili N’Ajjer Cave Paintings series is a visually stunning and historically significant issue. It provides a glimpse into prehistoric civilizations, making it a must-have for thematic collectors in archaeology, anthropology, and African history.
Do you have any of these stamps?
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