St. Christopher Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About St. Christopher (1870-1890) Stamps
St. Christopher, officially known as Saint Kitts, is a dual-island nation located in the Caribbean region of North America. As a former British colony, its postal history is deeply rooted in the British postal system, with stamps frequently bearing the name of the colony or the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis. The primary language appearing on its postal issues is English, reflecting its colonial heritage. The country transitioned from colonial rule to independence in 1983, marking a significant shift in its postal administration and the eventual creation of the independent nation's definitive issues.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- Caribbean
- Issuing period:
- 1870 – 1890
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- XCD
- Parent issuer:
- Great Britain
Stamp Catalogs
St. Christopher (1870-1890) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular St. Christopher (1870-1890) Stamp Series
Queen Victoria Issues (1870-1888)
Early issues featuring the portrait of Queen Victoria, often with the 'ST. CHRISTOPHER' inscription.
Surcharged Issues (1882-1888)
Stamps overprinted with new values to meet postal rate changes.
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St. Christopher (1870-1890) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early St. Christopher stamps, especially those in good condition or with rare cancellations, can be quite valuable. Surcharged issues and specific color varieties are also sought after. Later issues, particularly those from the Leeward Islands federation period, are generally more common.
How to Identify St. Christopher (1870-1890) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying St. Christopher (1870-1890) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ST. CHRISTOPHER' prominently displayed on the stamp.
- 2 Early issues almost exclusively feature the portrait of Queen Victoria.
- 3 Pay attention to watermarks (e.g., Crown CC, Crown CA) which are crucial for identification and value.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are St. Christopher stamps?
St. Christopher stamps refer to the postal issues of the British colony of St. Christopher (now Saint Kitts) from 1870 to 1890, before it became part of the Leeward Islands federation for postal purposes. These stamps typically feature Queen Victoria and bear the colony's name.
Are St. Christopher stamps valuable?
Yes, many St. Christopher stamps can be valuable, especially the early Queen Victoria issues, rare color varieties, and stamps with significant overprints or surcharges. Condition, cancellation, and rarity play a major role in their market price, with some rare examples fetching thousands of dollars.
How can I identify St. Christopher stamps?
To identify St. Christopher stamps, look for the inscription 'ST. CHRISTOPHER' and the portrait of Queen Victoria. Pay close attention to watermarks, perforations, and any surcharges. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamp to catalog entries and learn more about its specific details.
Which catalogs list St. Christopher stamps?
St. Christopher stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (Volume 1), and the Michel Caribbean catalogue.
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