Regional Definitives Wales Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Regional Definitives Wales Stamps
Regional Definitives Wales refers to a specific set of postage stamps issued by the United Kingdom for use within Wales, a constituent country of Great Britain in Northwestern Europe. These issues are part of the broader UK postal system, reflecting its history within the British Empire and its current status as a member of the Universal Postal Union. The stamps are notable for featuring the Welsh language alongside English, often incorporating Welsh cultural symbols or landmarks. This regional designation highlights the administrative devolution of postal services within the UK, distinguishing these issues from general Great Britain or Northern Ireland definitive series.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Western Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1958 – present
- Languages:
- English, Welsh
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- Great Britain
Stamp Catalogs
Regional Definitives Wales stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Regional Definitives Wales Stamp Series
Machin Definitives (Regional) (1971-Present)
The iconic Machin head design adapted for regional issues, featuring Welsh emblems and bilingual inscriptions.
Wilding Definitives (Regional) (1958-1971)
Early regional definitives featuring the Dorothy Wilding portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, with Welsh symbols and bilingual text.
Pictorial Definitives (Occasional issues)
Stamps featuring specific Welsh landmarks, cultural symbols, or significant events, often alongside the monarch's effigy.
Regional Definitives Wales Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Most common regional definitives are inexpensive. Errors, varieties (e.g., phosphor bands, paper types), and early printings in mint condition can command higher prices. First day covers and presentation packs also hold collector interest.
How to Identify Regional Definitives Wales Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Regional Definitives Wales stamps:
- 1 Look for the country name 'CYMRU' (Welsh for Wales) or 'WALES' alongside 'POSTAGE' or 'ROYAL MAIL'.
- 2 Identify the Welsh Dragon or other specific Welsh emblems (e.g., leek, daffodil) incorporated into the design.
- 3 Check for bilingual inscriptions (English and Welsh) for the denomination and sometimes the country name.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Regional Definitives Wales stamps?
Regional Definitives Wales stamps are postage stamps issued by the United Kingdom specifically for use within Wales. They are distinguished by their inclusion of Welsh language, cultural symbols, and often the word 'CYMRU' (Wales) alongside the standard British postal indicators.
Are Regional Definitives Wales stamps valuable?
Most common Regional Definitives Wales stamps are not highly valuable, typically ranging from a few pence to a few pounds. However, certain varieties, errors, early issues, or stamps in pristine condition (especially mint never hinged) can fetch higher prices, sometimes reaching hundreds of pounds. Their value depends on rarity, condition, and collector demand.
How can I identify Regional Definitives Wales stamps?
You can identify Regional Definitives Wales stamps by looking for the word 'CYMRU' or 'WALES' on the stamp, often alongside the monarch's portrait. They frequently feature Welsh national symbols like the Welsh Dragon, leek, or daffodil, and include bilingual English and Welsh text. A stamp identifier app can also help you quickly identify these stamps by scanning them.
Which catalogs list Regional Definitives Wales stamps?
Regional Definitives Wales 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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