South Australia Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About South Australia Stamps
South Australia was a self-governing British colony located in the southern central region of the Australian continent. Its postal history began with issues under the authority of the United Kingdom before achieving responsible government, with stamps primarily featuring English text and denominations in pounds/shillings/pence, later transitioning to decimal currency. The colony maintained its distinct postal administration until federation in 1901, when its postal services were absorbed into the Commonwealth of Australia. This transition marks a significant shift in stamp issuance, moving from colonial to federal authority.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Australia and New Zealand
- Issuing period:
- 1855 – 1906
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- AUD
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
South Australia stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular South Australia Stamp Series
First Issues (Embossed) (1855-1859)
The very first stamps of South Australia, featuring an embossed design of Queen Victoria's head, often without printed color.
Chalon Head Issues (1856-1870)
Stamps featuring the iconic 'Chalon Head' portrait of Queen Victoria, similar to those used in other British colonies, printed in various colors and denominations.
Long Type Issues (1867-1902)
A long-running series featuring a more detailed profile of Queen Victoria, often with 'SOUTH AUSTRALIA' prominently displayed.
South Australia Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early embossed issues and high-denomination Chalon Head stamps, especially in fine condition or with rare cancellations, can command significant prices. Later definitive issues are generally more affordable, but errors or varieties can be valuable.
How to Identify South Australia Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying South Australia stamps:
- 1 Look for 'SOUTH AUSTRALIA' printed on the stamp.
- 2 Early issues often feature the embossed or 'Chalon Head' portrait of Queen Victoria.
- 3 Denominations are typically in pence, shillings, and pounds (e.g., '1d', '6d', '1/-', '£1').
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are South Australia stamps?
South Australia stamps are postage stamps issued by the British colony of South Australia from 1855 until 1906, when its postal services were integrated into the Commonwealth of Australia.
Are South Australia stamps valuable?
The value of South Australia stamps varies widely. Early embossed issues and certain Chalon Head definitives, particularly in good condition or with rare postmarks, can be quite valuable, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. More common later issues are generally affordable, often in the $1-$50 range.
How can I identify South Australia stamps?
South Australia stamps are typically identified by the inscription 'SOUTH AUSTRALIA' and often feature portraits of Queen Victoria. Denominations are in pre-decimal currency (pence, shillings, pounds). For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list South Australia stamps?
South Australia stamps are extensively cataloged in major philatelic references, including the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, Michel, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue.
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