The Kingdom of Tonga is situated in the South Pacific northeast of New Zealand.  It consists of about 170 islands, of which about 45 are inhabited.  Its capital is Nuku’alofa.  It was known as the Friendly Islands because of the reception Captain James Cook received from the Tongans on his first visit in 1773.  From 1900 to 1970, the country had British protected State status and in 1970 joined the Commonwealth.

The first Tongan Stamp was issued in 1866 and depicts King George Tupou I of Tonga.  Early in the 20^th century, mail was received via the “Tin Can Mail” system, which meant mail was thrown overboard in biscuit tins and retrieved by local swimmers.

In 1969, Tonga became the second country to issue self-adhesive stamps.  The reason for this was to avoid the tendency of water activated stamps sticking together.

1920

Queen Salote Series

SG # 76

Used (Hinged)SG # 76

 

 

 

 

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