Queensland Stamps
Queensland, located in the northeastern region of Australia, operated as a self-governing British colony before achieving statehood within the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901. Its early postal history is defined by issues under the British Crown, featuring English inscriptions and denominations in Australian pounds, shillings, and pence.
- Issued stamps
- 1860–1907
- Region
- Oceania, Australia
- Currency
- AUD
- Languages
- English
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- United Kingdom
About Queensland stamps
The transition to unified Australian postal administration following Federation marked a significant shift in stamp design and currency standardization. Stamps from this era primarily reflect the English language and the administrative history of a major Australasian dominion.
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.
- QUEENSLAND
How to identify Queensland stamps
- Look for 'QUEENSLAND' inscription, often at the top or bottom of the stamp.
- Early issues feature the 'Chalon Head' portrait of Queen Victoria; later issues feature a 'Sideface' portrait.
- Pay attention to watermarks (e.g., Crown CC, Crown Q), perforations, and paper types, which are crucial for distinguishing varieties.
- Denominations are in Australian pounds, shillings, and pence (e.g., '1d', '6d', '1/-').
Popular series
-
Chalon Head Issues
1860-1880
The iconic 'Chalon Head' portrait of Queen Victoria, based on a painting by Alfred Edward Chalon, was used on Queensland's first stamps and continued for many years, featuring various watermarks and perforations.
-
Sideface Issues
1880-1907
Later issues featuring a more contemporary 'sideface' portrait of Queen Victoria, often with 'QUEENSLAND' at the top and denomination at the bottom. These stamps saw various printings and color changes.
-
Revenue Stamps Used for Postage
Various
Some Queensland revenue stamps were officially or unofficially used for postal purposes, adding a layer of complexity and interest for collectors.
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
- $100–$10,000+
Common Queensland stamps are generally affordable. Rarities include early Chalon issues with specific watermarks, perforations, or shades, as well as high denominations and postal history items like covers and proofs. Condition, especially for early issues, significantly impacts value.
Catalogs. Queensland 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 Queensland stamps
Queensland stamps are postage stamps issued by the British colony of Queensland, Australia, from 1860 until its federation into the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901. They continued to be valid for postage until 1907.
The value of Queensland stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for a few dollars, while rare varieties, particularly early Chalon Head issues with specific watermarks, perforations, or high denominations, can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Condition is a major factor in determining value.
To identify Queensland stamps, look for the 'QUEENSLAND' inscription, typically featuring portraits of Queen Victoria. Key identifiers include the specific portrait type (Chalon Head or Sideface), watermarks, perforation details, and the denomination in pre-decimal currency. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Queensland stamps are extensively listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Stanley Gibbons (especially the Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue), Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, and Michel. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, printings, and estimated values.
Not sure where
it's from?
Photograph the stamp and Stamp Identifier names the issuer, the year and the series. One identification every 24 hours is free; prices and listings need Premium.