Lagos Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Lagos (British Colony) Stamps
Lagos, a coastal city-state in West Africa, served as a significant British colony and protectorate before becoming part of modern Nigeria. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the British colonial administration, with early issues often featuring Queen Victoria and later monarchs, primarily denominated in British currency or its local equivalents. Stamps from this period predominantly feature English, reflecting its status as a Crown Colony. The administrative transition into the Colony and Protectorate of Southern Nigeria, and subsequently the unified Nigeria, marked the end of Lagos's distinct postal authority.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- West Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1874 – 1904
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- Great Britain
Stamp Catalogs
Lagos (British Colony) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Lagos (British Colony) Stamp Series
Queen Victoria Issues (1874-1902)
Early issues featuring the iconic profile of Queen Victoria, often in various denominations and colors, reflecting the standard colonial design of the era.
King Edward VII Issues (1902-1904)
Stamps issued during the brief reign of King Edward VII, continuing the colonial tradition with his portrait, before Lagos was absorbed into Southern Nigeria.
Lagos Overprints (1874)
Early stamps of Great Britain overprinted 'LAGOS' for local use, representing the very first postal emissions for the colony.
Lagos (British Colony) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available and affordable. Rarer issues include high denominations, specific printings, errors, and early overprints, especially those in fine used condition or on cover. Condition significantly impacts value.
How to Identify Lagos (British Colony) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Lagos (British Colony) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'LAGOS' as the country name, often at the top or bottom of the stamp.
- 2 Identify the monarch's portrait (Queen Victoria or King Edward VII).
- 3 Check for denominations in British currency (pence, shillings, pounds).
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Lagos stamps?
Lagos stamps are postage stamps issued by the British Colony and Protectorate of Lagos, a significant city-state in West Africa, between 1874 and 1904. They primarily feature British monarchs and are denominated in British currency, reflecting its colonial status before becoming part of Southern Nigeria.
Are Lagos stamps valuable?
The value of Lagos stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few pounds, while rarer stamps, such as high denominations, specific printings, or early overprints, especially in fine condition or on original covers, can fetch hundreds or even thousands of pounds. Their historical significance as early West African colonial issues contributes to their collectibility.
How can I identify Lagos stamps?
You can identify Lagos stamps by looking for the inscription 'LAGOS' on the stamp, usually accompanied by the portrait of Queen Victoria or King Edward VII. Denominations will be in British currency (e.g., 'PENCE', 'SHILLING'). For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app that can analyze your stamp's features.
Which catalogs list Lagos stamps?
Lagos stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find detailed information, including varieties and values, in the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, and the Michel Rundschau catalogue.
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