Regional Definitives Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Regional Definitives Stamps
Regional Definitives are not a specific country but rather a category of stamps issued by various territories or administrative divisions within a larger sovereign state, often reflecting local geography or administrative needs. These issues typically appear in areas like island territories, autonomous regions, or specific provinces that maintain separate postal services under a central authority. The language and currency displayed on these stamps are usually those of the parent nation, though local dialects or official regional languages may also be present. Such issues often mark periods of devolution or specific administrative arrangements within the larger postal system.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
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- Subregion:
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- Issuing period:
- None – present
- Languages:
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- Currency:
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- issuer:regional-definitives.overview.parentIssuer:
- issuer:regional-definitives.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Regional Definitives stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Regional Definitives Stamp Series
British Regional Definitives (England, Scotland, Wales, N. Ireland) (1958-present)
Stamps issued for the constituent countries of the United Kingdom, featuring regional emblems alongside the monarch's effigy.
French Overseas Departments and Territories (DOM-TOM) (Mid-20th Century - Present)
Issues for various French overseas regions like Guadeloupe, Martinique, Reunion, and New Caledonia, often sharing designs with metropolitan France but with specific inscriptions.
Spanish Autonomous Communities (Late 20th Century - Present)
Occasional issues reflecting the distinct cultures and histories of Spain's autonomous regions, such as Catalonia or the Basque Country.
Regional Definitives Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of regional definitives varies significantly. Common issues are generally inexpensive, especially used. Scarcer printings, errors, or early issues from less common regions can command higher prices. Condition is paramount, with mint never-hinged examples being most desirable.
How to Identify Regional Definitives Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Regional Definitives stamps:
- 1 Look for specific regional inscriptions or emblems (e.g., 'SCOTLAND', 'GUADELOUPE', 'EIRE' on early Irish issues).
- 2 Note the currency and language, which will typically align with the parent nation but may include local dialects.
- 3 Examine the design for local landmarks, flora, fauna, or cultural symbols unique to the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Regional Definitives stamps?
Regional Definitives are a category of stamps issued by specific territories or administrative divisions within a larger sovereign state. They often reflect local geography, culture, or administrative needs, and are distinct from the main national issues, though they operate under the central postal authority.
Are Regional Definitives stamps valuable?
The value of Regional Definitives varies widely. Many common issues are inexpensive, especially used. However, certain early issues, stamps from less common or short-lived regional postal administrations, errors, or high-denomination examples can be quite valuable, sometimes reaching hundreds of dollars.
How can I identify Regional Definitives stamps?
To identify Regional Definitives, look for inscriptions indicating a specific region (e.g., 'Isle of Man', 'Jersey', 'Guernsey', 'Faroe Islands'). Pay attention to local emblems, landmarks, or cultural motifs in the design. Using a stamp identifier app can quickly help you pinpoint the specific region and catalog details.
Which catalogs list Regional Definitives stamps?
Major stamp catalogs like Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons all list Regional Definitives. They are typically found within the sections for their respective parent countries, often under specific sub-headings for 'Regional Issues,' 'Local Issues,' or 'Overseas Departments/Territories'.
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