Danish West Indies Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Danish West Indies Stamps
The Danish West Indies comprised a group of Caribbean islands administered by Denmark until their sale to the United States in 1917. As a Danish colony, postal services were integrated into the Danish postal system, with stamps often featuring Danish monarchs and text in Danish. The territory's philatelic history is defined by its colonial status and the transition to U.S. administration, which led to the issuance of provisional stamps overprinted for the U.S. Post Office. This brief but significant period of Danish rule is reflected in the unique bilingual or Danish-language issues preceding the transfer.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- Caribbean
- Issuing period:
- 1856 – 1915
- Languages:
- Danish, English
- Currency:
- DKK
- Parent issuer:
- Denmark
Stamp Catalogs
Danish West Indies stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Danish West Indies Stamp Series
First Issues (Numeral Design) (1856-1879)
Early issues featuring large numerals indicating value, often imperforate or rouletted.
King Christian IX and Frederick VIII Issues (1900-1907)
Stamps depicting Danish monarchs, common for Danish colonial issues of the era.
Provisional Surcharges (1902-1905)
Stamps surcharged with new values due to postal rate changes or shortages.
Danish West Indies Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early imperforate issues and certain provisional surcharges can be quite valuable, especially in fine condition. Later definitive issues are generally more affordable. Overprints from the 1917 transfer are also sought after.
How to Identify Danish West Indies Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Danish West Indies stamps:
- 1 Look for 'DANSK VESTINDIEN' or 'DANSK VESTINDISKE ØER' inscriptions.
- 2 Many early issues feature Danish monarchs (Christian IX, Frederick VIII) or numeral designs.
- 3 Check for overprints, especially 'U.S. POSTAGE' or 'U.S.P.O. D.W.I.' from the 1917 transfer period.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Danish West Indies stamps?
Danish West Indies stamps are postage stamps issued for the Danish colony in the Caribbean, comprising islands like St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John, from 1856 until their sale to the United States in 1917. They reflect Danish colonial administration and the transition to U.S. rule.
Are Danish West Indies stamps valuable?
The value of Danish West Indies stamps varies significantly. Common later issues can be found for a few dollars, while early imperforate stamps, rare provisional surcharges, and stamps with specific overprints (especially from the 1917 transfer) can be highly valuable, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
How can I identify Danish West Indies stamps?
You can identify Danish West Indies stamps by looking for inscriptions like 'DANSK VESTINDIEN' or 'DANSK VESTINDISKE ØER'. Many feature Danish monarchs or distinctive numeral designs. For precise identification and valuation, use a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app on your iPhone or Android device.
Which catalogs list Danish West Indies stamps?
Danish West Indies stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (USA), Michel (Germany), and Stanley Gibbons (UK). These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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