Natal Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Natal Stamps
Natal was a British colony situated on the southeastern coast of Africa, eventually becoming a province of the Union of South Africa. Its postal history began under British administration, issuing stamps from 1857, often featuring Queen Victoria and later monarchs. The stamps predominantly displayed English inscriptions, reflecting its colonial status and later incorporation into the South African postal system. Following the formation of the Union of South Africa in 1910, Natal's separate postal issues ceased, and its territory was absorbed into the larger national postal administration.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Southern Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1857 – 1908
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Natal stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Natal Stamp Series
Chalon Head Issues (1857-1867)
Early issues featuring the iconic 'Chalon Head' portrait of Queen Victoria, often imperforate.
Queen Victoria Definitive Issues (1870-1902)
A long-running series depicting Queen Victoria in various designs, including surcharges and color changes.
King Edward VII Issues (1902-1908)
Stamps issued during the reign of King Edward VII, marking the final separate issues for Natal.
Natal Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Natal stamps are affordable, especially later definitive issues. Early imperforate Chalon Heads, rare surcharges, and specific plate varieties can command significant prices. Condition, cancellations, and rarity of specific printings heavily influence value.
How to Identify Natal Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Natal stamps:
- 1 Look for 'NATAL' inscription, typically at the top or bottom of the stamp.
- 2 Early issues often feature the 'Chalon Head' portrait of Queen Victoria.
- 3 Later issues (post-1870) feature different portraits of Queen Victoria or King Edward VII.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Natal stamps?
Natal stamps are postage stamps issued by the British colony of Natal, located on the southeastern coast of Africa, between 1857 and 1908. They primarily feature British monarchs like Queen Victoria and King Edward VII, reflecting its colonial status before becoming part of the Union of South Africa.
Are Natal stamps valuable?
The value of Natal stamps varies widely. Common later issues can be found for a few dollars, while early imperforate 'Chalon Head' issues, rare surcharges, specific watermarks, and well-preserved examples can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Condition, rarity, and specific varieties are key determinants of value.
How can I identify Natal stamps?
Natal stamps can be identified by the prominent 'NATAL' inscription. Early stamps feature Queen Victoria's 'Chalon Head' portrait, while later issues show different portraits of Victoria or King Edward VII. For precise identification of specific issues, varieties, watermarks, and perforations, using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Natal stamps?
Natal stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, watermarks, perforations, and estimated values, essential for collectors.
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