British Columbia & Vancouver Island Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About British Columbia & Vancouver Island Stamps
British Columbia and Vancouver Island, located in western North America, formed a significant British Crown Colony before joining the Dominion of Canada. Postal history is characterized by early issues under direct British colonial administration, often featuring Queen Victoria's effigy, followed by integration into the Canadian postal system after 1871. Stamps from this period predominantly display English, reflecting the dominant language of the settlers and administration. The eventual unification of the colony into the Dominion of Canada marked the definitive end of its separate postal authority.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1860 – 1869
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
British Columbia & Vancouver Island stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular British Columbia & Vancouver Island Stamp Series
Queen Victoria Issues (1860-1869)
The primary and only series of stamps issued by the colony, featuring the effigy of Queen Victoria, often engraved by Charles Henry Jeens.
Chalon Head Issues (1865-1869)
A distinctive subset of the Queen Victoria issues, featuring the 'Chalon Head' portrait, known for its artistic quality and various printings.
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British Columbia & Vancouver Island Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Stamps from British Columbia & Vancouver Island are highly sought after by collectors of British Commonwealth and Canadian philately. Values vary significantly based on condition, specific issue (e.g., watermark, perforation, shade), and rarity of certain denominations or printings. Used copies often command higher prices than unused due to the limited postal usage during the period.
How to Identify British Columbia & Vancouver Island Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying British Columbia & Vancouver Island stamps:
- 1 Look for 'BRITISH COLUMBIA' or 'VANCOUVER ISLAND' in the inscription.
- 2 All stamps feature the effigy of Queen Victoria.
- 3 Early issues (1860-1863) are imperforate; later issues (1865-1869) are perforated.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are British Columbia & Vancouver Island stamps?
British Columbia & Vancouver Island stamps refer to the postage stamps issued by the British Crown Colony of British Columbia and Vancouver Island between 1860 and 1869, before their integration into the Dominion of Canada. These stamps are highly prized by collectors.
Are British Columbia & Vancouver Island stamps valuable?
Yes, stamps from British Columbia & Vancouver Island are generally considered valuable, especially in good condition. Common issues can fetch hundreds of pounds, while rare varieties, specific printings, or high denominations can be worth thousands or even tens of thousands. Their historical significance and limited issuance contribute to their high value.
How can I identify British Columbia & Vancouver Island stamps?
You can identify British Columbia & Vancouver Island stamps by looking for the colony's name in the inscription and the effigy of Queen Victoria. Key details like perforations (or lack thereof), watermarks (Crown CC or Crown CA), and specific colors or denominations are crucial. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized catalogs.
Which catalogs list British Columbia & Vancouver Island stamps?
British Columbia & Vancouver Island stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott (USA), Michel (Germany), and Stanley Gibbons (UK). These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated market values.
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