Spanish Cuba 1894 Newspaper stamps / complete set

Spanish Cuba stamps were issued during the period when Cuba was a Spanish colony, which lasted from the 16th century until 1898. Here are some key points about Spanish Cuba stamps:

1. Time period: Spanish stamps were used in Cuba from 1855 until 1898, when Cuba gained independence following the Spanish-American War.
2. First issues: The first stamps specifically for use in Cuba were issued in 1855. These featured the portrait of Queen Isabella II of Spain.
3. Design themes: Common designs included:
   • Portraits of Spanish monarchs (Isabella II, Alfonso XII, Alfonso XIII)
   • Spanish coat of arms
   • Allegorical figures representing Spain or Cuba
4. Printing: Early stamps were printed in Spain, but later some were produced locally in Cuba.
5. Currency: Stamps were initially denominated in reales and escudos, later changing to centavos and pesos.
6. Overprints: Some Spanish stamps were overprinted for use in Cuba.
7. Rarity: Certain Spanish Cuba stamps are quite rare and valuable to collectors, particularly some early issues and error prints.
8. Historical significance: These stamps reflect the colonial relationship between Spain and Cuba and are of interest to both philatelists and historians.
9. End of issue: The last Spanish Cuba stamps were issued in 1898, coinciding with the end of Spanish rule in Cuba.
10. Postal stationery: In addition to stamps, various types of postal stationery were also issued for use in Cuba during this period.