Oil Rivers Protectorate Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Oil Rivers Protectorate Stamps
The Oil Rivers Protectorate was a British protectorate established in West Africa, encompassing the Niger Delta region of modern-day Nigeria. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the British colonial administration, with mail services initially operating under the authority of the British Post Office before being integrated into the broader Nigerian postal system. Stamps issued for this territory typically bore English inscriptions, reflecting the official language of the colonial power. The Protectorate was formally absorbed into the Niger Coast Protectorate in 1893, marking a significant administrative transition in the region's postal evolution.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- West Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1892 – 1893
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- Great Britain
Stamp Catalogs
Oil Rivers Protectorate stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Oil Rivers Protectorate Stamp Series
Queen Victoria Issues (1892-1893)
The only stamps issued for the Oil Rivers Protectorate featured the effigy of Queen Victoria, overprinted with 'OIL RIVERS'.
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Oil Rivers Protectorate Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Due to the very short period of issue and limited quantities, even common stamps can hold moderate value. Rarities include specific overprint varieties, errors, and stamps on cover. High-value items are often those with clear postal history.
How to Identify Oil Rivers Protectorate Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Oil Rivers Protectorate stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'OIL RIVERS' overprinted on stamps of Great Britain (specifically the 'BRITISH POSTAGE' issues of Queen Victoria).
- 2 Examine the overprint for variations in font, spacing, and alignment, as these can indicate different printings or varieties.
- 3 Check the watermark (Crown and 'CA' or 'CC') and perforation of the underlying British stamp.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Oil Rivers Protectorate stamps?
Oil Rivers Protectorate stamps are philatelic issues used in the British protectorate in the Niger Delta region of West Africa between 1892 and 1893. They consist of British stamps overprinted with 'OIL RIVERS'.
Are Oil Rivers Protectorate stamps valuable?
Yes, Oil Rivers Protectorate stamps can be quite valuable due to their short period of issue and historical significance. Common examples might fetch £5-£50, while rare varieties, errors, or stamps on original covers can command prices from £100 to over £1,000, depending on condition and specific characteristics.
How can I identify Oil Rivers Protectorate stamps?
To identify Oil Rivers Protectorate stamps, look for the distinctive 'OIL RIVERS' overprint on stamps of Great Britain featuring Queen Victoria. Pay close attention to the details of the overprint, the underlying stamp's design, watermark, and perforation. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog.
Which catalogs list Oil Rivers Protectorate stamps?
Oil Rivers Protectorate stamps are well-documented in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Katalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue.
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