Regional Definitives Scotland Stamps
Scotland, a constituent country of the United Kingdom, is situated in Northern Europe, forming the northern part of the island of Great Britain. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the Royal Mail, operating under the unified British postal system, although it maintains a distinct cultural identity reflected in its postal stationery.
- Issued stamps
- 1958–2022
- Region
- Europe, Northern Europe
- Currency
- GBP
- Languages
- English, Scots Gaelic
- Issuer type
- Modern postal administration
- Part of
- United Kingdom
History and background
Stamps issued for use within Scotland, particularly the definitive series, prominently feature the English language alongside traditional Scottish heraldry and iconography. While Scotland remains part of the UK postal administration, the issuance of distinct definitive stamps, often featuring Scottish landmarks or figures, underscores its unique national status within the Union.
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.
- SCOTLAND
- CYMRU
- ENGLAND
- N. IRELAND
How to identify them
- Look for 'SCOTLAND' or 'CYMRU' (for Wales) or 'ENGLAND' or 'N. IRELAND' in the design, often subtly integrated.
- Identify the specific Scottish emblem (Thistle, Lion Rampant, St. Andrew's Cross) within the stamp design.
- Check the watermark and perforation details, especially for earlier issues, as these can differentiate varieties.
Popular series
-
Floral Emblems (Scottish Regionals)
1958-1969
The first regional definitive series for Scotland, featuring the Scottish Thistle, often with Queen Elizabeth II's portrait.
-
Machin Definitives (Scottish Regionals)
1971-2022
Scottish regional issues based on Arnold Machin's iconic sculpted portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, incorporating Scottish symbols like the Lion Rampant or Thistle.
-
Pictorial Definitives (Scottish Regionals)
1999-2003
A series featuring Scottish landmarks and cultural elements, providing a more pictorial representation of Scotland.
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
- £0.10–£5
- Scarce stamps
- £20–£200+
Common regional definitives are generally inexpensive. Rarer varieties include errors, specific printings, or early issues in fine condition. Full sheets or presentation packs can command higher prices.
Catalogs. Regional Definitives Scotland 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 Regional Definitives Scotland stamps
Regional Definitives Scotland stamps are definitive postage stamps issued by the Royal Mail for use specifically within Scotland. While part of the unified British postal system, these stamps feature distinct Scottish iconography, symbols, and sometimes landmarks, reflecting Scotland's unique national identity within the United Kingdom.
Most common Regional Definitives Scotland stamps are not highly valuable and can be acquired for a few pence to a few pounds. However, certain early issues, specific printings, errors, or stamps in pristine condition (especially on cover) can fetch higher prices, ranging from £20 to over £200 for rare varieties.
To identify Regional Definitives Scotland stamps, look for the explicit 'SCOTLAND' inscription or prominent Scottish symbols like the Thistle, Lion Rampant, or St. Andrew's Cross within the design. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
Regional Definitives Scotland stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Stanley Gibbons Great Britain Concise Catalogue, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under Great Britain), and the Michel Europa-Katalog (under Great Britain).
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