The Kingdom of the Netherlands comprises the well-known Western European country as well as its overseas territories Aruba, Curaçao and St. Maarten. The Kingdom has issued stamps in all regions since the 19th century. The Caribbean territories all have a degree of autonomy that extends to postal services and stamp production. As a result, there are many options for anyone interested in beginning a collection of Netherlands stamps.
Let Apfelbaum, Inc. help you build your collection of Dutch stamps! We frequently have interesting and rare Netherlands stamps for sale in our online store. Read on the learn more about why the Kingdom is worth your time and money.
Why Collect Dutch Stamps?
If you’re a collector with an interest in Europe, there are several reasons to consider specializing in the Netherlands. As befits the home of Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh, Dutch stamps are attractive and well-designed. Aside from their aesthetic value, the country’s strong economic indicators suggest that there will continue to be a vibrant market for both individual issues and complete collections for years to come.
Another reason to specialize in Dutch stamps is that amassing a complete collection is a relatively easy task. There are few truly rare Netherlands stamps. Even those that are hard to come by don’t fetch the high prices of a Canadian 12 penny black or an Inverted Jenny. With time and effort, a dedicated specialist in stamps from the Netherlands can easily complete their collection without a large investment.
The Netherlands at a Glance
The Netherlands — Dutch for “the low country” — has been an independent state since 1648, following a long war with Spain. The country was officially a republic until 1795, during which time it expanded its colonial ambitions in the West Indies and gained a reputation as a global innovator in science and art. The Kingdom of the Netherlands was established in 1815 after consolidating more European territory.
One interesting aspect of life in the Netherlands is what is known as “Dutch Culture” — a widespread attitude of modesty, egalitarianism and straightforwardness. This is perhaps appropriate given the state of the Dutch stamp catalog, which lacks expensive, high-profile issues but is not without its own idiosyncratic delights.
Dutch Collectors’ Stamps
In 1852, the Netherlands began printing their first stamps. Over the years, the country has produced several notable issues. As mentioned above, almost all are within reach of a casual collector. Some stamps to look out for include:
- 1852 King Wilhelm III: The first set of Netherlands stamps featured then-king Wilhelm III. Three imperforates were issued: a 5c blue, 10c lake red and 15c orange.
- 1907 “Admiral M.A. de Ruyter and Fleet”: This attractive 1907 issue celebrated the 300th anniversary of the birth of Michiel de Ruyter, a Dutch Admiral and national hero, noted for his leadership during the Anglo-Dutch wars.
Throughout its history, the Netherlands has also issued semi-postal, variable value and provincial stamps. Other issues have been produced for use at the International Criminal Court in The Hague. In addition to stamps from the Netherlands proper, postal authorities in Aruba have been producing their own issues since 1986. Recently, Curaçao and St. Maarten have followed suit.
Buy Netherland Collectors’ Stamps at Apfelbaum, Inc.
Apfelbaum, Inc. usually has Netherlands collectors’ stamps listed for sale. We also have a large online store with a buy-it-now option that contains numerous issues from both the European Netherlands proper and the wider Kingdom overseas. Browse our website today to see what’s available or contact our office directly for assistance.
Looking for help evaluating a collection of rare Netherlands stamps? Our professional appraisers can come to your location to provide both an expert valuation and advice on storing, transporting and selling your collection.