Sri Lanka Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Sri Lanka Stamps
Sri Lanka, an island nation in South Asia, possesses a rich postal history beginning under British colonial rule as Ceylon, which heavily influenced its early postal administration and infrastructure. The country transitioned to independence in 1948 and subsequently became a republic, leading to changes in sovereignty reflected on its stamps. Issues from this period typically feature Sinhala and Tamil, the primary official languages, alongside English. As a long-standing member of the Universal Postal Union, Sri Lanka's postal system has evolved through various political and administrative phases, marked by distinct changes in design and issuing authority following its republican status.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- South Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1972 – present
- Languages:
- Sinhala, Tamil, English
- Currency:
- LKR
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Stamp Catalogs
Sri Lanka stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Sri Lanka Stamp Series
Definitives of 1972 (1972-1977)
The first definitive series issued after Sri Lanka became a republic, featuring local flora, fauna, and cultural motifs.
Buddhist Art and Culture (1980s-1990s)
A recurring theme showcasing the rich Buddhist heritage, ancient temples, and religious festivals of Sri Lanka.
Wildlife and Nature (Various)
Stamps depicting the diverse wildlife, national parks, and natural beauty of the island nation.
Sri Lanka Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Most modern Sri Lankan stamps are readily available and affordable. Earlier issues from the republic period, especially those with printing errors, rare cancellations, or in pristine condition, can fetch higher prices. Stamps from the Ceylon era generally hold more significant philatelic value.
How to Identify Sri Lanka Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Sri Lanka stamps:
- 1 Look for 'SRI LANKA' or 'CEYLON' as the country name. Post-1972 stamps will bear 'SRI LANKA'.
- 2 Examine the language: modern issues often feature Sinhala, Tamil, and English inscriptions.
- 3 Check for watermarks, especially on earlier issues, though less common on post-1972 stamps.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sri Lanka stamps?
Sri Lanka stamps are postage stamps issued by the postal administration of Sri Lanka, an island nation in South Asia. The country was formerly known as Ceylon until 1972, and its stamps reflect this historical transition.
Are Sri Lanka stamps valuable?
The value of Sri Lanka stamps varies widely. Many modern issues are common and inexpensive, typically ranging from €0.10 to €2. However, certain earlier republican issues, especially those with errors or in superb condition, can be more valuable, reaching €50 to €500 or more. Stamps from the preceding Ceylon period are often more sought after by collectors.
How can I identify Sri Lanka stamps?
You can identify Sri Lanka stamps by looking for the country name 'SRI LANKA' (or 'CEYLON' for earlier issues) printed on them. They often feature inscriptions in Sinhala, Tamil, and English. Visual themes frequently include local culture, wildlife, historical sites, and national events. For precise identification, you can use a stamp identifier app that scans and recognizes stamps.
Which catalogs list Sri Lanka stamps?
Sri Lanka stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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