Gilbert Islands Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Gilbert Islands Stamps
The Gilbert Islands, a Micronesian archipelago in Oceania, were a British Crown Colony whose postal history began under the jurisdiction of the High Commissioner for the Western Pacific. Stamps issued primarily featured English inscriptions, reflecting their colonial status, and often shared designs with other British Pacific territories. The territory transitioned through various administrative phases, including its association with the Gilbert and Ellice Islands, before becoming the independent nation of Kiribati in 1979, which subsequently altered the philatelic output.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Micronesia
- Issuing period:
- 1976 – 1979
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- AUD
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Gilbert Islands stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Gilbert Islands Stamp Series
Definitive Series (1976-1979)
The final definitive series issued for the Gilbert Islands before independence, often featuring local flora, fauna, and cultural scenes.
Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II (1977)
Commemorative issues celebrating the 25th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's reign, a common theme across British Commonwealth territories.
Christmas Issues (1976-1978)
Annual Christmas stamp issues, often depicting religious or local festive imagery.
Gilbert Islands Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available and inexpensive. Rarer issues include errors, varieties, and certain higher denominations or complete sets in fine condition. Stamps from the earlier Gilbert and Ellice Islands period tend to be more sought after.
How to Identify Gilbert Islands Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Gilbert Islands stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'Gilbert Islands' or 'Gilbert Is.' on the stamps.
- 2 Stamps often feature the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, reflecting their colonial status.
- 3 Designs frequently depict local Micronesian themes, marine life, or British royal events.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Gilbert Islands stamps?
Gilbert Islands stamps are postage stamps issued by the British Crown Colony of the Gilbert Islands from 1976 until its independence as Kiribati in 1979. They succeeded the stamps of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands.
Are Gilbert Islands stamps valuable?
Most common Gilbert Islands stamps are not highly valuable, typically ranging from $0.50 to $5. However, certain complete sets, higher denominations, errors, or varieties can fetch higher prices, potentially reaching $20 to over $100, especially in mint condition.
How can I identify Gilbert Islands stamps?
You can identify Gilbert Islands stamps by looking for the explicit inscription 'Gilbert Islands' or 'Gilbert Is.' on the stamp. They often feature the reigning monarch (Queen Elizabeth II) and local Micronesian imagery. For precise identification and cataloging, consider using a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list Gilbert Islands stamps?
Gilbert Islands stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
Not sure if your stamp is from Gilbert Islands?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store