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Honduras

FIRST STAMPS ISSUED 1 January 1866 (but it is probable that these were never in fact issued. Second series issued 1877-8).

CURRENCY
1866, 8 reales = 1 peso.
1878, 100 centavos = 1 peso.
1933, 100 centavos = 1 lempiru.

Honduras was discovered by Columbus in 1502 during his last voyage to the West Indies. It was colonized by Spain soon after and was governed as part of the Captain-Generalcy of New Granada. Like other Spanish colonies in Central America, Honduras rebel-led in the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars and became independent in 1821. It was part of the United Provinces of Central America 1823-38, but following the dissolution 'became involved in a series of wars and revolutions.

In 1866 a series of stamps appeared inscribed 'Correos de Honduras', but it is probable that these were never issued. A further attempt to establish a postal service was made in 1877 and the stamps of 1866 were overprinted with new values. In 1878 a new series inscribed 'Republica de Honduras' was released.

Honduras was the first country to issue the notorious Seebeck stamps, which were available for reprint in New York for collectors in return for the right to issue a new series each year. This contract was terminated by Honduras in 1895.

Honduras joined the UPU in 1879.