Postal History of Republic of Congo

Located on Africa's Atlantic coast, the Republic of Congo is renowned for its rainforests and diverse wildlife, including gorillas.

The Republic of Congo is a smaller country next to the Democratic Republic of Congo. It also has lots of forests, rivers, and wildlife. Like its neighbour, it used to be ruled by France before gaining its freedom in 1960. It was once part of a group of French colonies called French Equatorial Africa. Today, its stamps show the pride of its people, their leaders, and the beauty of the land.

Stamps through the years

  • 1891 – French Congo: The first stamps had the words "Congo Français" (French Congo) because it was a colony of France.
  • 1910-1933 – Middle Congo: The area was renamed Moyen-Congo (Middle Congo) and the stamps showed African scenes and French designs.
  • 1936-1958 – French Equatorial African stamps were used at this time, the area was split into four republics which were Central African Republic, Chad, Congo and Gabon.
  • 1960 – Independence: When the country became fully independent, the stamps celebrated their freedom and national heroes.
  • 1959-1992 – People’s Republic of the Congo: After a change in government, the name on the stamps was "Republique Populaire Du Congo".
  • 1992 to today – Republic of the Congo: The country changed back to Republic of the Congo and stamps focused on peace, culture, sports, and nature.

Did you know?

  • The Republic of Congo’s longest river is the Congo River, which it shares with the DRC.
  • The highest point is Mount Berongou, located in the Chaillu Mountains.
  • The country produces oil, which is very important for its economy.
  • Gorillas live in the forests of the Republic of Congo, especially in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park.
  • The Republic of Congo was ruled by France, and today French is still the official language.
  • The Republic of Congo uses the Central African CFA franc as its money.
  • The Republic of Congo was part of French Equatorial Africa. It was one of the four territories that comprised French Equatorial Africa, a federation of French colonies established in 1910 and dissolved in 1958. The other three territories were Gabon, the Central African Republic, and Chad.
French Congo

Issued 1892: French Congo - 2 cent definitive.

Congo

Issued 1933: Middle Congo - 1 cent Mindouli Viaduct.

Congo

Issued 1961: Tropical Fish Series - 1f (Chauliodus sloanei).

Congo

Issued 1970: 2f (Plectranthus Decurrens) Perf: 12½ x12.

Congo

Issued 1971: Reptile Series - 5f Velvety Green Night Adder (Causus resimus).