Postage Stamps of Heligoland

Historical Context

  • Issuance Period: Heligoland, a small island in the North Sea, issued postage stamps from 1867 to 1890. Initially under British control, the island was transferred to Germany in 1890.
  • Jurisdiction: The stamps were used during British administration and are notable for their unique designs.

Key Features

  1. Designs:
    • Stamps often featured the British monarch, Queen Victoria, and later, the German coat of arms.
    • Designs were colorful and distinctive, often using green and red.
  2. Denominations:
    • Denominations included “Schilling” and “Pfennig.”

Collectibility

  • Rarity and Value:
    • Heligoland stamps are highly collectible due to their unique historical context and limited issuance.
    • They are particularly sought after in good condition and on covers.

Overview

Heligoland’s postage stamps are a fascinating collectible, reflecting the island’s unique geopolitical history. They are valued for their distinct designs and the unusual circumstances of their issuance. For more detailed information, collectors often refer to specialized philatelic catalogs and resources.