Caicos Island Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Caicos Island Stamps
The Caicos Islands, part of the Turks and Caicos Islands archipelago, are a British Overseas Territory situated in the Atlantic Ocean, geographically part of the Lucayan Archipelago in the Caribbean region. Postal history is intrinsically linked to the United Kingdom, with stamps initially issued under the colonial administration of the Bahamas before joining the Turks and Caicos entity. Issues typically feature English, reflecting the official language, and have transitioned through various British currency systems, including the use of the Bahamian dollar before adopting the US dollar. The islands' postal administration has consistently operated under the umbrella of the Turks and Caicos postal service.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- Caribbean
- Issuing period:
- 1981 – 1985
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- Turks and Caicos Islands
Stamp Catalogs
Caicos Island stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Caicos Island Stamp Series
Royal Wedding (Charles and Diana) (1981)
A commemorative issue celebrating the marriage of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer, a common theme for British Commonwealth territories.
Christmas Issues (1981-1985)
Annual Christmas themed stamps, often featuring local scenes or religious motifs, popular among thematic collectors.
Definitive Series (1981-1985)
Regular postal issues featuring local flora, fauna, and landmarks of the Caicos Islands.
Caicos Island Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Most Caicos Island stamps from this short period are relatively common and affordable. Higher values are typically for complete sets, unmounted mint condition, or specific errors/varieties if they exist. Early issues from the broader Turks and Caicos or Bahamas period may command higher prices.
How to Identify Caicos Island Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Caicos Island stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Caicos Island' or 'Turks & Caicos Islands' as the issuing entity. Stamps from this specific period (1981-1985) will explicitly state 'Caicos Island'.
- 2 Check the currency denomination, which will typically be in cents or dollars (US currency).
- 3 Examine the design for typical British Commonwealth characteristics, including portraits of the monarch (Queen Elizabeth II) and local imagery.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Caicos Island stamps?
Caicos Island stamps refer to postage stamps issued specifically for the Caicos Islands between 1981 and 1985. During this brief period, the Caicos Islands had a distinct postal identity within the larger Turks and Caicos Islands British Overseas Territory, before reverting to combined Turks and Caicos issues.
Are Caicos Island stamps valuable?
Most Caicos Island stamps are not considered highly valuable, with common issues typically ranging from $0.50 to $5. However, complete sets, stamps in pristine unmounted mint condition, or any known errors or varieties can fetch higher prices, potentially reaching $20 to over $100 for rare items. Their value is often tied to their appeal to British Commonwealth or Caribbean collectors.
How can I identify Caicos Island stamps?
To identify Caicos Island stamps, look for the explicit inscription 'Caicos Island' on the stamp itself, along with the denomination in US Dollars or cents. They will also often feature the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II and imagery relevant to the islands. For precise identification and catalog numbers, you can use a stamp identifier app or consult a specialized stamp catalog like Scott, Michel, or Stanley Gibbons.
Which catalogs list Caicos Island stamps?
Caicos Island stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (typically Volume 1, British Commonwealth), the Michel catalog (Caribbean/Central America volumes), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps Catalogue.
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