Kingston (Jamaica) Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Kingston (Jamaica) Stamps
Kingston is not a sovereign country but the capital city of Jamaica, an island nation in the Caribbean. Jamaican postal history is rooted in its long association with the British Empire, which heavily influenced its early postal administration and stamp designs. Stamps issued for use in Jamaica, including those originating from Kingston, predominantly feature English, the official language, and reflect the island's transition from a Crown Colony to an independent nation in 1962. The postal system has since aligned with international standards, notably joining the Universal Postal Union.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- Caribbean
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- JMD
- Parent issuer:
- Jamaica
Stamp Catalogs
Kingston (Jamaica) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Kingston (Jamaica) Stamp Series
Kingston Provisional (1861)
A rare provisional issue created due to a shortage of regular Jamaican stamps, featuring a handstamped 'KINGSTON' over a British stamp.
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Kingston (Jamaica) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The single Kingston provisional issue is highly sought after by collectors of Jamaican and British Commonwealth stamps. Its value depends heavily on condition, clarity of the overprint, and any distinguishing characteristics.
How to Identify Kingston (Jamaica) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Kingston (Jamaica) stamps:
- 1 Look for the distinctive 'KINGSTON' handstamp over a British stamp, specifically the 1d rose-red (SG 40 or Scott 33).
- 2 Examine the overprint for authenticity; forgeries exist. Expertization is often recommended for high-value examples.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Kingston stamps?
Kingston stamps refer to a unique provisional issue from 1861, created in Kingston, Jamaica, due to a temporary shortage of regular Jamaican stamps. These were British stamps handstamped with 'KINGSTON' for local use.
Are Kingston stamps valuable?
Yes, Kingston provisional stamps are considered very valuable due to their rarity and historical significance. Prices can range from hundreds to several thousands of US dollars, depending on condition and authenticity.
How can I identify Kingston stamps?
You can identify Kingston stamps by looking for the clear 'KINGSTON' handstamp over a British 1d rose-red stamp. Due to their value, it's crucial to verify authenticity, often requiring expert opinion. A stamp identifier app can help with initial recognition, but professional authentication is recommended for high-value items.
Which catalogs list Kingston stamps?
Kingston provisional stamps are listed in major stamp catalogs such as Scott (under Jamaica or British Commonwealth), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons (under Jamaica). They are typically noted as a provisional or local issue.
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