The 550th Anniversary of the Execution of Joana Call stamp (Scott 855), issued by French Andorra in 2022, is a popular choice for both Halloween-themed collectors and unconventional stamp collectors.
Nestled in the Pyrenees Mountains between Spain and France, the small principality of Andorra has a unique history and governance. Since 1278, it has been ruled jointly by two co-princes: the bishop of Urgell in Spain and the leader of France. The official language, Andorran Catalan, is a Romance language closely related to Catalan.
Despite its modest population of under 90,000, Andorra operates two separate postal services —one managed by Spain and the other by France. Each postal authority issues its own stamps, which are sought after not only by dedicated collectors of Andorran philately but also by those with an interest in Spanish and French issues. French Andorran stamps, in particular, are recognized for their high-quality design and production, matching the artistic and technical standards of France’s own stamp program.
In recent years, witchcraft—rooted in ancient folk traditions and pagan beliefs—has seen a resurgence in modern culture. In fact, some reports suggest that the number of self-identified witches in the United States now exceeds the membership of the Presbyterian Church.
On August 5, 2022, French Andorra released a €2.32 stamp (Scott 855) to mark the 550th anniversary of the execution of Joana Call, a woman accused of witchcraft. Call, a widow from Segudet, faced trial in 1472 before Andorra’s high court. Under interrogation, including torture, she maintained her innocence, but the testimony of witnesses sealed her fate. She was ultimately convicted and executed.
The stamp’s striking design features a chilling image from the historical court records, depicting Call’s body dismembered into separate parts. This macabre visual element has drawn significant attention from collectors, particularly those with an interest in dark history, witchcraft, and even Halloween-themed philately.
Was Joana Call truly a witch? Many historians view her as an unfortunate victim of religious fear and superstition. However, given Andorra’s historical connection to folk traditions, modern-day practitioners of witchcraft have embraced her story as part of their heritage.
The Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue lists this stamp at a mint, never-hinged value of $4.75—twice the standard catalog minimum for recent issues. Demand remains strong, particularly among collectors with a taste for the eerie and macabre. Whether purchased at catalog value or slightly above, this stamp is a compelling addition to any collection.
