Hong Kong Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Hong Kong Stamps
Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region of China located in East Asia, primarily situated on the southern coast of the South China Sea. Its postal history is deeply rooted in its status as a former British Crown Colony, leading to a long period of administration under the British postal system and subsequent membership in the Universal Postal Union. Stamps from this era prominently feature English alongside traditional Chinese characters, reflecting its bilingual environment. Following the 1997 handover, Hong Kong retained its own postal service and currency, issuing stamps under the "Hong Kong, China" designation while maintaining a high degree of autonomy in its postal affairs.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1862 – present
- Languages:
- English, Chinese
- Currency:
- HKD
- Parent issuer:
- China
Stamp Catalogs
Hong Kong stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Hong Kong Stamp Series
Queen Victoria Issues (1862-1901)
The earliest issues featuring Queen Victoria, often with watermarks and various printings, highly sought after by collectors.
King George V Issues (1912-1936)
Definitive series featuring King George V, including the 'Key Plate' designs, known for their intricate details and color variations.
Definitives of Hong Kong (1946-Present)
Post-WWII definitive issues, showcasing local scenery, culture, and wildlife, reflecting Hong Kong's evolving identity.
Hong Kong Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early Queen Victoria issues, especially those with rare cancellations or errors, can fetch significant prices. Post-1997 issues are generally more affordable, though some commemorative sets and FDCs hold moderate value. Condition is paramount for older stamps.
How to Identify Hong Kong Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Hong Kong stamps:
- 1 Look for 'HONG KONG' inscription, often accompanied by 'CHINA' after 1997.
- 2 Early issues feature British monarchs (Victoria, Edward VII, George V, George VI, Elizabeth II).
- 3 Stamps often include both English and traditional Chinese characters.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Hong Kong stamps?
Hong Kong stamps are postage stamps issued by the postal administration of Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of China. They reflect its history as a British Crown Colony and its current autonomous status, featuring a blend of British monarchical designs and local cultural themes.
Are Hong Kong stamps valuable?
The value of Hong Kong stamps varies greatly. Early issues, particularly those from the Queen Victoria era with good condition, rare cancellations, or errors, can be quite valuable, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. More modern definitive and commemorative issues are generally affordable, though complete sets or specific first day covers can hold moderate value. Rarity, condition, and demand are key factors.
How can I identify Hong Kong stamps?
You can identify Hong Kong stamps by looking for the 'HONG KONG' inscription, often alongside 'CHINA' for post-1997 issues. Early stamps feature British monarchs. Many stamps are bilingual, showing both English and traditional Chinese characters. Watermarks are important for older issues. For precise identification and catalog numbers, use a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app that can scan and recognize stamps.
Which catalogs list Hong Kong stamps?
Hong Kong stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Katalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Catalogue. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, designs, watermarks, perforations, and estimated values.
Not sure if your stamp is from Hong Kong?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store