Canada Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Canada Stamps
Canada, spanning much of North America, developed its postal system under British colonial administration before achieving dominion status and eventually full sovereignty. Its postal history is marked by early issues reflecting imperial ties, followed by full membership in the Universal Postal Union (UPU) and significant contributions to international mail. Canadian stamps predominantly feature English and French, reflecting its official bilingual status, and its issues track the evolution from colonial provinces to a unified confederation in 1867 and subsequent expansion.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1868 – present
- Languages:
- English, French
- Currency:
- CAD
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Stamp Catalogs
Canada stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Canada Stamp Series
Large Queens (1868-1897)
Canada's first definitive series after Confederation, featuring Queen Victoria. Known for their large format and often intricate designs.
Small Queens (1870-1897)
A smaller format definitive series also depicting Queen Victoria, issued to reduce printing costs. Many varieties exist due to different printings and papers.
Maple Leaf Issue (1897-1898)
Commemorating Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, these stamps feature a portrait of the Queen surrounded by maple leaves, symbolizing Canadian identity.
Canada Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early Canadian stamps, especially the Large Queens and Small Queens with rare shades, cancellations, or errors, can be very valuable. Modern common issues are generally inexpensive. Condition, centering, and cancellations significantly impact value.
How to Identify Canada Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Canada stamps:
- 1 Look for 'CANADA' or 'POSTAGE' at the top or bottom of the stamp.
- 2 Early issues often feature portraits of Queen Victoria or subsequent monarchs.
- 3 Modern stamps are bilingual (English and French) and often depict Canadian landscapes, wildlife, historical events, or cultural figures.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Canada stamps?
Canada stamps are postage stamps issued by the postal authority of Canada, beginning shortly after its confederation in 1867. They reflect the nation's history, culture, and natural beauty, featuring a blend of British imperial ties and distinct Canadian identity.
Are Canada stamps valuable?
Some Canada stamps, particularly early issues like the Large Queens, Small Queens, and certain commemorative or error stamps, can be very valuable, reaching thousands of dollars. More common modern issues are generally inexpensive. Value depends heavily on rarity, condition, and demand from collectors.
How can I identify Canada stamps?
You can identify Canada stamps by looking for the country name 'CANADA' (often in both English and French on modern issues), the monarch's portrait on earlier stamps, or distinctive Canadian imagery. For precise identification and valuation, use a stamp identifier app that can scan your stamp and provide detailed information.
Which catalogs list Canada stamps?
Canada stamps are extensively cataloged in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (Volume 2), the Michel Katalog (Nord- und Mittelamerika), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue.
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