Gibraltar Stamps
Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory located on the Iberian Peninsula in Southern Europe, strategically positioned at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the United Kingdom, operating under British postal administration and issuing stamps that reflect its status as a Crown Colony and later, a territory with devolved powers.
- Issued stamps
- 1886–present
- Region
- Europe, Southern Europe
- Currency
- GBP
- Languages
- English, Spanish
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- United Kingdom
About Gibraltar stamps
Stamps predominantly feature English, often alongside Spanish due to its proximity to the border, and its postal issues document significant periods such as World War II and its unique constitutional development. The territory maintains its own postal service, Gibraltar Post, which has issued definitive and commemorative stamps throughout its history.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- GIBRALTAR
How to identify Gibraltar stamps
- Look for 'GIBRALTAR' as the primary country name on the stamp.
- Early issues often feature British monarchs (Victoria, Edward VII, George V, George VI, Elizabeth II).
- Many stamps depict local landmarks like the Rock of Gibraltar, Barbary macaques, or historical events related to the territory.
- Watermarks (e.g., Crown CA, Multiple Crown CA) are important for identifying specific printings of early issues.
Popular series
-
Queen Victoria Definitive Issues
1886-1902
The first stamps issued specifically for Gibraltar, featuring Queen Victoria's portrait, initially overprinted 'GIBRALTAR' on Bermudan stamps, then later with unique designs.
-
King George VI Pictorials
1938-1952
A long-running definitive series featuring local scenes, historical figures, and the King's portrait, known for its various printings and shades.
-
Elizabeth II Definitive Series
1953-present
Numerous definitive sets issued throughout Queen Elizabeth II's reign, often depicting local flora, fauna, landmarks, and royal portraits, reflecting Gibraltar's evolving identity.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- £0.50–£5
- Scarce stamps
- £50–£500+
Early Queen Victoria issues, particularly those with overprints or rare cancellations, can be valuable. Later commemorative issues are generally affordable, but errors, varieties, and complete definitive sets can fetch higher prices. Condition is crucial.
Catalogs. Gibraltar stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about Gibraltar stamps
Gibraltar stamps are postage stamps issued by the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar, located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. They reflect Gibraltar's unique history, culture, and status, often featuring British monarchs, local landmarks, and significant events.
The value of Gibraltar stamps varies widely. Early issues, especially those from the Victorian and Edwardian eras, and certain varieties or errors, can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to hundreds of pounds. More modern commemorative stamps are generally affordable, often valued at face value or slightly more, but complete sets or specific themes can be sought after by collectors.
Gibraltar stamps are typically identified by the prominent inscription 'GIBRALTAR' on the stamp. They often feature British monarchs, the Rock of Gibraltar, local wildlife, or historical scenes. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Gibraltar stamps are extensively cataloged in major philatelic publications. The most common catalogs include the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, and the Michel Europa-Katalog. These catalogs provide detailed listings, images, and estimated values for Gibraltar's postal issues.
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