New South Wales Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About New South Wales Stamps
New South Wales is a foundational colony located in southeastern Australia, part of the broader Oceania region. As one of the earliest British colonies established in 1788, its postal history begins under direct British administration, leading to the issuance of its own stamps starting in 1850, predating the Commonwealth of Australia. Stamps from this period predominantly feature English text and denominations in British currency, transitioning later to Australian currency systems. The colony's postal autonomy concluded with the federation of Australia in 1901, after which postal services were absorbed into the Commonwealth system.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Australia and New Zealand
- Issuing period:
- 1850 – 1906
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
New South Wales stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular New South Wales Stamp Series
Sydney Views (1850-1851)
The first stamps of New South Wales, featuring a detailed engraving of Sydney Cove. Known for their distinctive design and early printing variations.
Laureated Issues (1851-1856)
Stamps depicting Queen Victoria's head wreathed in laurel, produced by Perkins, Bacon & Co. These issues are notable for their various perforations and watermarks.
Diademed Issues (1856-1860)
Featuring Queen Victoria with a diadem, these stamps were also printed by Perkins, Bacon & Co. and are collected for their color variations and plate flaws.
New South Wales Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are generally affordable, especially later issues. Early 'Sydney Views' and rare varieties, errors, or high denominations can fetch significant prices. Condition, cancellations, and specific plate varieties heavily influence value.
How to Identify New South Wales Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying New South Wales stamps:
- 1 Look for 'NEW SOUTH WALES' or 'N.S.W.' as the country inscription, typically at the top or bottom of the design.
- 2 Early issues (1850s) often feature Queen Victoria's portrait or the Sydney View. Denominations are in pence or shillings.
- 3 Watermarks, especially the 'Large Star' or 'NSW' monograms, are crucial for identifying specific issues and varieties.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are New South Wales stamps?
New South Wales stamps are the postage stamps issued by the British colony of New South Wales, located in southeastern Australia, from 1850 until its federation into the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901. They represent a significant period in Australian postal history.
Are New South Wales stamps valuable?
The value of New South Wales stamps varies widely. While many common later issues are relatively inexpensive, early 'Sydney Views' and certain rare varieties, errors, or high-denomination stamps can be very valuable, sometimes fetching thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. Condition, rarity, and specific philatelic characteristics are key determinants of value.
How can I identify New South Wales stamps?
You can identify New South Wales stamps by looking for the inscription 'NEW SOUTH WALES' or 'N.S.W.' on the stamp. Early issues often depict Queen Victoria or the iconic Sydney Cove. Key identification features include watermarks (such as the 'Large Star'), perforations, and design variations. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog.
Which catalogs list New South Wales stamps?
New South Wales stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (Volume 2), the Michel Australia & Oceania catalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (Part 1).
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