Niger Coast Protectorate Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Niger Coast Protectorate Stamps
The Niger Coast Protectorate was a British colonial territory located in West Africa, primarily encompassing the area that would later form part of Nigeria. Its postal history began under British administration, with stamps initially being those of the Gold Coast or Lagos, before specific issues were introduced reflecting its status as a distinct protectorate. The stamps predominantly featured English inscriptions, often alongside the name of the ruling British monarch. This entity was eventually incorporated into the larger Southern Nigeria Protectorate in 1906, marking a significant administrative consolidation in the region's postal evolution.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- West Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1894 – 1897
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Niger Coast Protectorate stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Niger Coast Protectorate Stamp Series
Queen Victoria Issues (1894-1897)
Stamps featuring the portrait of Queen Victoria, often overprinted with 'OIL RIVERS' or 'NIGER COAST' and new denominations.
Oil Rivers Protectorate Overprints (1892-1894)
Earlier issues of the Gold Coast or Great Britain overprinted for use in the Oil Rivers Protectorate, which preceded the Niger Coast Protectorate.
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Niger Coast Protectorate Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, overprint variety, and specific issue. Early overprints and high denominations are generally more valuable.
How to Identify Niger Coast Protectorate Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Niger Coast Protectorate stamps:
- 1 Look for 'NIGER COAST PROTECTORATE' or 'OIL RIVERS PROTECTORATE' inscriptions.
- 2 Examine for overprints on stamps originally issued for Gold Coast or Great Britain.
- 3 Identify the portrait of Queen Victoria, common on most issues.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Niger Coast Protectorate stamps?
Niger Coast Protectorate stamps are postage stamps issued by the British colonial administration in West Africa between 1894 and 1897. They often feature Queen Victoria's portrait and were sometimes overprinted on stamps from other British colonies or Great Britain.
Are Niger Coast Protectorate stamps valuable?
Yes, some Niger Coast Protectorate stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare overprints, high denominations, or stamps in pristine condition. Common issues might fetch £5-£50, while rare varieties can command prices from £100 to over £5,000.
How can I identify Niger Coast Protectorate stamps?
To identify Niger Coast Protectorate stamps, look for the specific inscriptions 'NIGER COAST PROTECTORATE' or 'OIL RIVERS PROTECTORATE'. Many feature Queen Victoria's head. You can also use a stamp identifier app by scanning the stamp, which can quickly match it to known issues and provide details.
Which catalogs list Niger Coast Protectorate stamps?
Niger Coast Protectorate stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Stanley Gibbons (especially their Commonwealth & British Empire volumes), Scott, and Michel.
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