Isle of Man Regional Definitives Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Isle of Man Regional Definitives Stamps
The Isle of Man is a self-governing British Crown Dependency situated in the Irish Sea, geographically part of Northwestern Europe. As a Crown Dependency, its postal history is distinct from the United Kingdom, although it maintains close ties, and the island has issued its own definitive stamps for many decades. Stamps typically feature English text alongside the island's unique heraldry and often reflect its Celtic heritage. The island's postal administration operates independently, having joined the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1961, solidifying its autonomous status in international mail.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Western Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1958 – 1971
- Languages:
- English, Manx
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Isle of Man Regional Definitives stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Isle of Man Regional Definitives Stamp Series
Queen Elizabeth II Regional Definitives (1958-1971)
The initial series of regional definitives for the Isle of Man, featuring the Machin head of Queen Elizabeth II alongside local symbols like the Triskelion.
Triskelion and Manx Cat Issues (1960s)
Stamps within the regional definitive period that prominently featured the iconic three-legged Triskelion symbol and sometimes the distinctive Manx cat.
issuer:regional-definitives-isle-of-man.series.items.2.name (issuer:regional-definitives-isle-of-man.series.items.2.period)
issuer:regional-definitives-isle-of-man.series.items.2.description
Isle of Man Regional Definitives Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common regional definitives are readily available and inexpensive. Higher values and specific printings, especially those in mint condition or on cover, can fetch higher prices. Errors or varieties are rare and significantly more valuable.
How to Identify Isle of Man Regional Definitives Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Isle of Man Regional Definitives stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ISLE OF MAN' or 'ELLAN VANNIN' (Manx for Isle of Man) as part of the inscription.
- 2 Stamps typically feature the Triskelion (three-legged symbol) and the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
- 3 The stamps will often have 'POSTAGE' or 'REVENUE' and a denomination in pre-decimal (d, s) or early decimal (p) currency.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Isle of Man Regional Definitives stamps?
Isle of Man Regional Definitives are postage stamps issued specifically for use on the Isle of Man between 1958 and 1971, while the island was still using British stamps but with a distinct regional design. They featured the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II along with local Manx symbols, distinguishing them from general British stamps.
Are Isle of Man Regional Definitives stamps valuable?
Most common Isle of Man Regional Definitives are not highly valuable, often trading for under a few pounds. However, certain higher denominations, specific printings, plate flaws, or stamps in pristine condition (especially mint never hinged) can be more valuable. Rarer varieties or errors can command significant prices, sometimes over £100.
How can I identify Isle of Man Regional Definitives stamps?
To identify Isle of Man Regional Definitives, look for the inscription 'ISLE OF MAN' or 'ELLAN VANNIN' in addition to the Queen's head and the Triskelion symbol. These stamps were issued before the Isle of Man gained full postal independence in 1973. For precise identification and cataloging, consider using a stamp identifier app that can scan and recognize these specific issues.
Which catalogs list Isle of Man Regional Definitives stamps?
Isle of Man Regional Definitives are comprehensively listed in major stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Stanley Gibbons Great Britain Concise Catalogue, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under Great Britain Regional Issues), and the Michel Europa-Katalog (Westeuropa).
Not sure if your stamp is from Isle of Man Regional Definitives?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store