Cuba 1896 Newspaper stamps / complete set MH set

Cuban newspaper stamps, known as “CUBA-IMPRESOS,” were first issued during the period when Cuba was under Spanish rule. These stamps were specifically used for sending newspapers and printed materials. The first series was issued in 1888 featuring King Alfonso XII, followed by series featuring King Alfonso XIII from 1890 to 1896.

Key Details:

1. 1888 Series – King Alfonso XII: This series included six denominations (½, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 8 millasimas) all in black, with the inscription “CUBA-IMPRESOS”. These stamps were perforated 14 and had no watermark​ (Stampdata)​​ (StampWorld)​.
2. 1890 Series – King Alfonso XIII: The stamps in this series also featured six denominations but were in a reddish-brown color. These stamps similarly bore the “CUBA-IMPRESOS” inscription and were used for similar postal purposes​ (StampWorld)​.
3. 1892 and Subsequent Series: More newspaper stamps featuring King Alfonso XIII were issued in 1892, 1894, and 1896, each with slight variations in color and design. These later stamps continued the tradition of being unwatermarked and perforated 14​ (Stampdata)​.

These stamps are significant in philately as they represent the period of Spanish colonial rule in Cuba and are valuable for collectors due to their historical and cultural significance.