Watlam Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Watlam Stamps
Watlam is an island nation situated in the South Pacific Ocean, part of the broader Melanesian region. Its postal history is marked by a period under British administration, which heavily influenced its early stamp issues and currency standards. Stamps from Watlam predominantly feature English alongside local vernaculars, reflecting its colonial past and subsequent independence. The nation transitioned from a British dependency to a sovereign state, leading to distinct series marking these administrative changes.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Melanesia
- Issuing period:
- 1949 – 1949
- Languages:
- English, Local Vernaculars
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Watlam stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Watlam Stamp Series
Provisional Issues (1949)
The initial issues of Watlam, likely overprinted stamps from a previous colonial administration or provisional designs, reflecting the immediate post-colonial period.
issuer:watlam.series.items.1.name (issuer:watlam.series.items.1.period)
issuer:watlam.series.items.1.description
issuer:watlam.series.items.2.name (issuer:watlam.series.items.2.period)
issuer:watlam.series.items.2.description
Watlam Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Watlam's brief philatelic history means that even common issues can hold some interest due to their limited production. Rarer items would include errors, varieties, or specific provisional overprints. The value is highly dependent on condition and specific issue.
How to Identify Watlam Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Watlam stamps:
- 1 Look for 'WATLAM' inscription, often alongside 'BRITISH ADMINISTRATION' or similar colonial markings.
- 2 Examine for overprints on stamps of other British Commonwealth territories, indicating provisional issues.
- 3 Note the dual language inscriptions (English and local vernaculars) as a key characteristic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Watlam stamps?
Watlam stamps are postage stamps issued by the island nation of Watlam, located in the South Pacific Ocean within the Melanesian region. Their postal history is brief, marked by a period under British administration and a transition to sovereignty in 1949, which is reflected in their limited stamp issues.
Are Watlam stamps valuable?
The value of Watlam stamps can vary. Due to their short issuance period, even common stamps can have some collector interest. Rarer items, such as provisional issues, errors, or stamps in pristine condition, can fetch higher prices, potentially ranging from $50 to over $200. Value depends heavily on rarity, condition, and specific issue.
How can I identify Watlam stamps?
You can identify Watlam stamps by looking for the 'WATLAM' inscription, often accompanied by 'BRITISH ADMINISTRATION' or similar colonial-era text. Many issues feature dual language inscriptions (English and local vernaculars). Using a stamp identifier app can also help you quickly identify and learn more about your Watlam stamps.
Which catalogs list Watlam stamps?
Watlam stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, denominations, and estimated values for various Watlam stamp issues.
Not sure if your stamp is from Watlam?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store