Leeward Islands Stamps
The Leeward Islands were a British colony in the Caribbean, comprising a chain of islands forming the northern Lesser Antilles. Postal services were administered under the British colonial system, often utilizing unified issues or stamps denominated in British currency before decimalization.
- Issued stamps
- 1890–1954
- Region
- Americas, Caribbean
- Currency
- XCD
- Languages
- English
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- United Kingdom
About Leeward Islands stamps
Stamps from this territory typically feature English inscriptions, reflecting the dominant language of the administration. The federation was dissolved in the late 20th century, with individual island territories gaining independence and subsequently establishing their own postal administrations.
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.
- LEEWARD ISLANDS
How to identify Leeward Islands stamps
- Look for the inscription 'LEEWARD ISLANDS' prominently displayed, often at the top or bottom of the stamp.
- Stamps typically feature portraits of British monarchs (Victoria, Edward VII, George V, George VI) or colonial scenes.
- Denominations are in British currency (pence, shillings, pounds) before decimalization.
Popular series
-
Queen Victoria Key Plate Issues
1890-1902
Early issues featuring the classic 'Key Plate' design with Queen Victoria's portrait, common for British colonies.
-
King Edward VII Issues
1902-1910
Stamps depicting King Edward VII, often sharing designs with other British colonial issues of the period.
-
King George V Issues
1912-1936
A long-running series featuring King George V, including definitive sets and commemorative issues.
-
King George VI Issues
1938-1954
Definitive sets and commemoratives issued during the reign of King George VI, often depicting local scenes and industries.
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–£10
- Scarce stamps
- £50–£500+
Early issues, particularly high values and those in fine used or mint condition, can command significant prices. Later definitive sets are generally more affordable, though complete sets or specific varieties can be valuable.
Catalogs. Leeward Islands 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 Leeward Islands stamps
Leeward Islands stamps were issued by the British colonial administration of the Leeward Islands federation in the Caribbean from 1890 to 1954. These stamps served the postal needs of the various islands within the federation.
The value of Leeward Islands stamps varies widely. Common definitive issues from later periods are generally inexpensive, often in the £0.50 - £10 range. However, early Queen Victoria and King Edward VII issues, high denominations, rare varieties, or stamps in pristine condition can be quite valuable, potentially fetching £50 to over £500.
To identify Leeward Islands stamps, look for the clear inscription 'LEEWARD ISLANDS'. They often feature portraits of British monarchs or local Caribbean scenes. Denominations are typically in pence, shillings, or pounds. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
Leeward Islands stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, and the Michel Übersee-Katalog (Caribbean).
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