Nova Scotia Stamps
Nova Scotia is a maritime province located in Eastern Canada, forming part of the Atlantic region of North America. Its postal history begins under British colonial rule, with stamps initially reflecting imperial ties before joining the Canadian Confederation in 1867, which led to the adoption of Dominion and later Canadian national issues.
- Issued stamps
- 1851–1860
- Region
- Americas, North America
- Currency
- CAD
- Languages
- English
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- Great Britain
About Nova Scotia stamps
While English is the dominant language on its issues, earlier stamps sometimes reflected French influence or bilingual needs in certain areas. The transition from separate provincial postal administration to the unified Canadian Post Office marks the most significant administrative shift affecting its stamp issues.
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.
- NOVA SCOTIA
How to identify Nova Scotia stamps
- Look for 'NOVA SCOTIA' printed at the top or bottom of the stamp.
- Early stamps feature a profile of Queen Victoria. Denominations are in 'pence' or 'cents'.
- Watermarks (often a large 'NS' or 'Crown') can be crucial for identifying specific printings and values.
Popular series
-
Queen Victoria 'Cents' Issue
1860-1863
The first decimal currency stamps issued by Nova Scotia, featuring a portrait of Queen Victoria. These replaced the earlier pence currency issues.
-
Queen Victoria 'Pence' Issue
1851-1857
Nova Scotia's first postage stamps, denominated in pence, featuring a profile of Queen Victoria. These are highly sought after by collectors.
-
Queen Victoria 'Shillings' Issue
1851-1857
High-value stamps from the first pence issue, including the rare 1 shilling value, crucial for heavier or international mail.
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
- $5–$50
- Scarce stamps
- $500–$10,000+
Common Nova Scotia stamps from the later 'Cents' issue can be affordable. The earlier 'Pence' issues, especially higher denominations and well-preserved examples, can be quite valuable. Rarities like the 1 shilling value command significant prices.
Catalogs. Nova Scotia 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 Nova Scotia stamps
Nova Scotia stamps are postage stamps issued by the British colonial government of Nova Scotia from 1851 until 1860, when it joined the Canadian Confederation. These stamps reflect the province's postal history before the unified Canadian postal system.
Yes, many Nova Scotia stamps can be quite valuable, particularly the early 'Pence' issues from 1851-1857, especially higher denominations, rare colors, or those in excellent condition. The later 'Cents' issues are generally more accessible but can still hold good value.
Nova Scotia stamps are identified by the clear inscription 'NOVA SCOTIA' on the stamp. They typically feature a portrait of Queen Victoria and are denominated in pence or cents. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Nova Scotia stamps are listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (United States), Michel (Germany), and Stanley Gibbons (United Kingdom). These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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