Tasmania Stamps
Tasmania, an island state in the Oceania region, was a significant British colony established in the early 19th century. Its postal history begins with issues under the colonial administration, primarily featuring English text and denominations in British currency before decimalization.
- Issued stamps
- 1853–1912
- Region
- Oceania, Australia and New Zealand
- Currency
- GBP
- Languages
- English
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- United Kingdom
About Tasmania stamps
The island transitioned from a penal colony to a self-governing entity within the Commonwealth of Australia, with its stamps eventually being absorbed into the unified Australian postal system after Federation in 1901.
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.
- TASMANIA
- VAN DIEMEN'S LAND
- TAS
How to identify Tasmania stamps
- Look for 'TASMANIA' or 'VAN DIEMEN'S LAND' (on early issues) as the country name.
- Denominations are typically in pence and shillings (e.g., '1d', '6d', '1/-').
- Early issues feature the Chalon Head portrait of Queen Victoria; later issues show a Sideface portrait or pictorial designs.
- Check watermarks (e.g., 'TAS', 'Star', 'Crown A') and perforation types, which are crucial for distinguishing varieties.
Popular series
-
Chalon Head Issues
1853-1871
The iconic 'Chalon Head' portrait of Queen Victoria, based on a painting by Alfred Edward Chalon, was used for Tasmania's first stamps. These are highly sought after by collectors.
-
Sideface Issues
1871-1899
Later issues featuring a more traditional 'Sideface' portrait of Queen Victoria, often with various watermarks and perforations, offering a wide range for specialization.
-
Pictorial Issues
1899-1912
Towards the end of its colonial postal independence, Tasmania issued stamps depicting local scenery and industries, such as Mount Wellington and apples, reflecting its unique identity.
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
- $1–$20
- Scarce stamps
- $100–$10,000+
Common Tasmanian stamps are relatively affordable, especially later issues. However, early Chalon Head issues, particularly those with rare colors, papers, or cancellations, can fetch significant prices. Errors and varieties are also highly prized.
Catalogs. Tasmania 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 Tasmania stamps
Tasmania stamps are postage stamps issued by the British colony of Tasmania, an island state off the coast of mainland Australia, from 1853 until its postal services were absorbed into the Commonwealth of Australia in 1912. They represent a significant period of colonial philately.
Yes, many Tasmania stamps can be valuable, especially the early 'Chalon Head' issues from 1853-1871, which are highly sought after by collectors. Rarity is often determined by specific printings, shades, watermarks, perforations, and cancellations. Later pictorial issues can also hold value, particularly in fine condition or as complete sets. Common, later-period stamps are generally more affordable.
To identify Tasmania stamps, look for the country name 'TASMANIA' or 'VAN DIEMEN'S LAND' (on the earliest issues). Denominations will be in British currency (pence and shillings). Key features include the portrait of Queen Victoria (Chalon Head or Sideface) or local pictorial designs. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Tasmania stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (Volume 2), and the Michel Australia & Overseas catalogue. These catalogs provide detailed listings, variations, and estimated values.
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