British Canada Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About British Canada Stamps
British Canada, spanning the vast northern expanse of North America, operated under the authority of the British Empire until its confederation in 1867. Postal services during this period were heavily influenced by British administrative practices, often utilizing the Imperial Penny Post system and featuring denominations in British currency before the adoption of the Canadian dollar. Stamps from this era predominantly display English, though French inscriptions are common due to the significant Francophone population in Lower Canada. The transition from various colonial post offices to a unified Dominion postal system marks the most significant administrative shift affecting its philatelic record.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1851 – 1859
- Languages:
- English, French
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- Great Britain
Stamp Catalogs
British Canada stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular British Canada Stamp Series
Queen Victoria Decimal Issue (1859)
The first stamps issued in decimal currency, featuring Queen Victoria, marking a transition towards a unified Canadian postal system.
Queen Victoria Pence Issues (1851-1857)
Early issues denominated in pence, featuring portraits of Queen Victoria, including the iconic 'Threepenny Beaver' and 'Twelve Pence Black'.
issuer:british-canada.series.items.2.name (issuer:british-canada.series.items.2.period)
issuer:british-canada.series.items.2.description
British Canada Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps from British Canada are relatively affordable, especially those in lower denominations and poorer condition. However, early pence issues, particularly the 'Twelve Pence Black' and certain color varieties or rare cancellations, can command very high prices. Condition, centering, and cancellations significantly impact value.
How to Identify British Canada Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying British Canada stamps:
- 1 Look for 'CANADA' or 'PROVINCE OF CANADA' inscriptions.
- 2 Denominations are typically in pence (d) for early issues, later in cents (c).
- 3 Portraits of Queen Victoria are common, often engraved with fine detail.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are British Canada stamps?
British Canada stamps refer to the postage stamps issued by the Province of Canada (which included Upper and Lower Canada) from 1851 until the confederation in 1867. These stamps were issued under British colonial administration and reflect the postal practices of the era, often using British currency denominations.
Are British Canada stamps valuable?
The value of British Canada stamps varies widely. Common stamps can be found for a few pounds, while rare issues, such as the 12d Black or certain varieties of the pence issues, can be extremely valuable, fetching tens of thousands of pounds. Factors like condition, rarity, and historical significance play a crucial role in determining their worth.
How can I identify British Canada stamps?
To identify British Canada stamps, look for inscriptions like 'CANADA' or 'PROVINCE OF CANADA'. Early issues are denominated in pence, while later ones are in cents. Many feature portraits of Queen Victoria. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app which can scan your stamp and provide detailed information.
Which catalogs list British Canada stamps?
British Canada stamps are extensively cataloged in major philatelic references. You can find them listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, and the Michel North America catalogue, among others.
Not sure if your stamp is from British Canada?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store