Montserrat Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Montserrat Stamps
Montserrat is a British Overseas Territory located in the Caribbean, part of the Lesser Antilles archipelago in the West Indies. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the British colonial administration, with stamps generally denominated in sterling currency until the transition to the Eastern Caribbean dollar. The primary language appearing on its philatelic issues is English, reflecting its colonial heritage. The island's postal system has remained under the administration of the British Crown, with stamps reflecting both local identity and broader Commonwealth themes.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- Caribbean
- Issuing period:
- 1876 – 2019
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- XCD
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Montserrat stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Montserrat Stamp Series
Queen Victoria Issues (1876-1902)
Early definitive issues featuring the profile of Queen Victoria, often surcharged or overprinted.
King George VI Pictorials (1938-1953)
A popular series depicting local scenes, flora, fauna, and the monarch, known for their vibrant designs.
Definitive Issues with Local Themes (Post-1960s)
Stamps increasingly showcasing Montserrat's unique culture, wildlife, and landmarks, reflecting growing local identity.
Montserrat Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early Queen Victoria issues, especially those with rare surcharges or errors, can be quite valuable. Later commemorative issues are generally more affordable, though complete sets in fine condition hold better value. Stamps from the period following the volcanic eruptions (post-1995) may also attract collector interest due to the island's unique circumstances.
How to Identify Montserrat Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Montserrat stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Montserrat' clearly printed on the stamp, often at the top or bottom.
- 2 Early issues frequently feature the monarch's portrait (Queen Victoria, Edward VII, George V, George VI, Elizabeth II).
- 3 Denominations are typically in sterling currency (pence, shillings, pounds) until the transition to Eastern Caribbean Dollar (cents, dollars).
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Montserrat stamps?
Montserrat stamps are postage stamps issued by the British Overseas Territory of Montserrat, located in the Caribbean. They reflect the island's colonial history, its transition to self-governance, and its unique cultural and natural heritage.
Are Montserrat stamps valuable?
The value of Montserrat stamps varies significantly. Early Queen Victoria issues, especially those with rare overprints or in pristine condition, can be quite valuable, ranging from £50 to several hundred pounds. Later definitive and commemorative issues are generally more common and affordable, typically ranging from £0.50 to £5, though complete sets or specific thematic issues can fetch more.
How can I identify Montserrat stamps?
Montserrat stamps can be identified by the clear inscription 'Montserrat' on the stamp. Early issues often feature British monarchs, while later stamps showcase local flora, fauna, landmarks, and cultural events. Using a stamp identifier app can help quickly identify and learn more about specific Montserrat stamps.
Which catalogs list Montserrat stamps?
Montserrat stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Stanley Gibbons (especially the Commonwealth and British Caribbean volumes), Scott (Volume 1: A-B), and Michel (Caribbean volumes). These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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