British East Africa Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About British East Africa Stamps
British East Africa comprised the territories under British administration in East Africa, primarily modern-day Kenya and Uganda, and was historically administered as a British protectorate. Its postal history is characterized by stamps issued under the authority of the British Colonial Office, often denominated in East African florins or shillings, and frequently featuring the effigy of the reigning British monarch. The stamps typically bore inscriptions in English, reflecting the language of colonial governance, and the postal system was integrated into the Universal Postal Union through the British administration. This entity saw significant administrative changes, eventually leading to the separate postal administrations of Kenya and Uganda.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1890 – 1897
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
British East Africa stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular British East Africa Stamp Series
Queen Victoria Issues (1890-1897)
Stamps featuring the effigy of Queen Victoria, often with 'BRITISH EAST AFRICA' inscription, initially overprinted on Indian stamps.
Indian Stamps Overprinted (1890-1895)
Early issues consisting of Indian stamps overprinted with 'BRITISH EAST AFRICA' and new denominations.
Key Plate Issues (1895-1897)
Definitive issues featuring a standard colonial key plate design with the Queen Victoria effigy and 'BRITISH EAST AFRICA' inscription.
British East Africa Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available. Early overprints and high values, especially in fine condition or with rare varieties, can fetch significant prices. Condition and cancellations play a crucial role in value.
How to Identify British East Africa Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying British East Africa stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'BRITISH EAST AFRICA'.
- 2 Early issues may be Indian stamps overprinted with the territory's name and new values.
- 3 Later issues feature the effigy of Queen Victoria, often in a standard colonial key plate design.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are British East Africa stamps?
British East Africa stamps were issued for the British protectorate in East Africa, primarily covering modern-day Kenya and Uganda, between 1890 and 1897. They were administered by the British Colonial Office and often featured the reigning British monarch.
Are British East Africa stamps valuable?
The value of British East Africa stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for a few dollars, while rare early overprints, high denominations, or stamps with significant errors or varieties can be quite valuable, potentially reaching thousands of dollars. Condition is a major factor in determining value.
How can I identify British East Africa stamps?
To identify British East Africa stamps, look for the clear inscription 'BRITISH EAST AFRICA'. Early issues are often Indian stamps overprinted with this text. Later issues feature Queen Victoria's portrait. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list British East Africa stamps?
British East Africa 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 market values.
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