Gambia Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Gambia Stamps
Gambia is a small West African nation entirely surrounded by Senegal, situated along the lower Gambia River. Its postal history is rooted in its status as a British Crown Colony, leading to early issues bearing the effigy of the British monarch, and it later joined the Universal Postal Union in 1970. Stamps predominantly feature English, the official language, alongside local flora, fauna, and cultural themes relevant to the nation. The country achieved full independence from the United Kingdom in 1965, marking a transition in its philatelic identity from colonial dependency to a sovereign republic.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- West Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1869 – 2021
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- GMD
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Gambia stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Gambia Stamp Series
Early Queen Victoria Issues (1869-1901)
The first stamps of Gambia, featuring the iconic 'Chalon Head' portrait of Queen Victoria, often with 'GAMBIA' overprints.
King George VI Pictorials (1938-1952)
A popular series depicting local scenes, flora, fauna, and industries, alongside the portrait of King George VI.
Independence Commemoratives (1965)
Stamps issued to celebrate Gambia's independence from the United Kingdom, often featuring national symbols and leaders.
Gambia Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early Queen Victoria issues, especially unused or rare varieties, can fetch significant prices. Post-independence definitives and commemoratives are generally affordable, with higher values for complete sets, errors, or specific thematic issues. Condition is crucial for value.
How to Identify Gambia Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Gambia stamps:
- 1 Look for 'GAMBIA' as the country name, often in conjunction with 'POSTAGE' or 'POSTAGE & REVENUE'.
- 2 Early issues feature British monarchs (Victoria, Edward VII, George V, George VI, Elizabeth II) until independence in 1965.
- 3 Post-independence stamps (from 1965 onwards) will clearly state 'GAMBIA' and often depict local themes, national symbols, or international events.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Gambia stamps?
Gambia stamps are postage stamps issued by the West African nation of Gambia, starting from 1869 when it was a British Crown Colony. They reflect its colonial past with British monarch portraits and its post-independence identity with local themes.
Are Gambia stamps valuable?
The value of Gambia stamps varies widely. Early colonial issues, particularly those from Queen Victoria's reign, can be quite valuable, especially in fine condition or as rare varieties. Later post-independence stamps are generally more affordable, though complete sets, thematic issues, or errors can command higher prices. Rarity, condition, and demand from collectors of British Commonwealth or African stamps influence their worth.
How can I identify Gambia stamps?
You can identify Gambia stamps by looking for the country name 'GAMBIA' printed on the stamp. Early issues will feature British monarchs, while later stamps will depict local flora, fauna, cultural scenes, or national symbols. For precise identification and catalog numbers, you can use a stamp identifier app or consult specialized stamp catalogs like Scott, Stanley Gibbons, or Michel.
Which catalogs list Gambia stamps?
Gambia stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (Volume 3 for British Commonwealth), the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, and the Michel catalogue (Afrika volume).
Not sure if your stamp is from Gambia?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store