Northern Ireland Regional Definitives Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Northern Ireland Regional Definitives Stamps
Northern Ireland, situated in Northwestern Europe as part of the United Kingdom, maintains a distinct postal identity within the British Isles. Its definitive stamps, issued for domestic use, reflect its status as a constituent country of the UK, often featuring local landmarks or cultural figures. The primary language appearing on these issues is English, alongside the customary use of the British pound sterling currency. These regional issues are a modern continuation of the unified British postal system, though they specifically cater to mail originating within the province.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- British Isles
- Issuing period:
- 1958 – 2022
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Northern Ireland Regional Definitives stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Northern Ireland Regional Definitives Stamp Series
Floral Emblems (1958-1971)
The first series of regional definitives for Northern Ireland, featuring the flax flower.
Machin Series (1971-present)
Northern Ireland versions of the iconic Machin head definitives, distinguished by a small 'N. Ireland' inscription or specific regional emblems.
Pictorial Definitives (1999-2003)
A series featuring various landmarks and cultural symbols of Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland Regional Definitives Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Most common regional definitives are inexpensive, especially used. Mint condition sets and specific varieties (e.g., phosphor bands, errors) can command higher prices. Early issues and higher denominations in fine condition are generally more valuable.
How to Identify Northern Ireland Regional Definitives Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Northern Ireland Regional Definitives stamps:
- 1 Look for 'N. Ireland' or 'Northern Ireland' inscription, often subtly placed.
- 2 Identify the specific regional emblem (e.g., flax flower, Ulster Hand) on pictorial issues or within the Machin design.
- 3 Check for the country name 'Great Britain' or 'Royal Mail' alongside the regional identifier.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Northern Ireland Regional Definitives stamps?
Northern Ireland Regional Definitives are postage stamps issued specifically for use within Northern Ireland, a constituent country of the United Kingdom. While part of the broader British postal system, these stamps feature designs unique to Northern Ireland, often depicting local landmarks, flora, or cultural symbols, alongside the monarch's effigy.
Are Northern Ireland Regional Definitives stamps valuable?
The value of Northern Ireland Regional Definitives varies. Most common, used stamps are of low value, typically ranging from £0.10 to £5. However, mint condition sets, early issues, higher denominations, and specific varieties (such as those with phosphor band variations or printing errors) can be more valuable, potentially reaching £20 to over £200 for rare examples.
How can I identify Northern Ireland Regional Definitives stamps?
To identify Northern Ireland Regional Definitives, look for specific inscriptions like 'N. Ireland' or 'Northern Ireland' on the stamp. Many issues feature regional emblems such as the flax flower or the Red Hand of Ulster. For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app which can help you match your stamp to known issues.
Which catalogs list Northern Ireland Regional Definitives stamps?
Northern Ireland Regional Definitives are comprehensively listed in major stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Stanley Gibbons Great Britain Concise and Commonwealth & British Empire catalogs, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under Great Britain), and the Michel Europa-Katalog (under Großbritanien).
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