Postage stamps from St. Lucia

Postage stamps from Saint Lucia offer a fascinating insight into the island’s colonial history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Saint Lucia, a small island nation in the eastern Caribbean, has a rich philatelic history. Here’s an overview of Saint Lucia’s postage stamps, including historical context, themes, notable issues, and tips for collectors:

Historical Background

  1. Colonial Period (1860-1979):
    • Saint Lucia issued its first postage stamps in 1860 when it was a British colony. Early stamps featured British monarchs and were often inscribed with the name “St. Lucia.”
    • Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, stamps continued to feature British monarchs and local symbols.
  2. Post-Independence (1979-present):
    • Saint Lucia gained independence from the United Kingdom on February 22, 1979. Post-independence stamps celebrate national pride, cultural heritage, and local flora and fauna.

Themes and Designs

  1. British Monarchs: Early stamps prominently featured portraits of British monarchs, such as Queen Victoria, King Edward VII, King George V, King George VI, and Queen Elizabeth II.
  2. Local Flora and Fauna: Depictions of Saint Lucia’s diverse plant and animal life, including tropical flowers, birds, and marine life.
  3. Cultural Heritage: Celebrations of local festivals, traditional music, dance, and historical landmarks.
  4. Historical Events and Figures: Commemorations of significant events and notable figures in the history of Saint Lucia.
  5. Scenic Beauty and Landmarks: Featuring the stunning landscapes, beaches, and natural landmarks of the island.

Notable Series and Stamps

  1. 1860 First Issue:
    • Featured a profile of Queen Victoria.
    • Included denominations such as 1 penny, 4 pence, and 6 pence.
    • Simple designs with the colony’s name and denomination.
  2. 1891 Key Plate Issue:
    • Standardized design featuring Queen Victoria’s profile.
    • Used across several British colonies with different inscriptions for each colony.
    • Included various denominations.
  3. 1938-1949 King George VI Definitive Series:
    • Featured the profile of King George VI.
    • Included designs showcasing local scenery and landmarks, such as the Pitons.
    • Various denominations reflecting postal rates of the time.
  4. 1953-1960 Queen Elizabeth II Definitive Series:
    • Featured the profile of Queen Elizabeth II.
    • Designs included local flora, fauna, and landmarks.
  5. 1979 Independence Issue:
    • Celebrated Saint Lucia’s independence from the United Kingdom.
    • Included designs celebrating national pride and cultural heritage.
  6. 1990 Bicentennial of the French Revolution:
    • Commemorated historical links with France.
    • Featured designs related to the French Revolution and its impact on Saint Lucia.
  7. 2000 Millennium Series:
    • Celebrated the turn of the millennium with themes of progress and cultural heritage.
    • Included various designs reflecting the island’s past, present, and future.

Collecting Saint Lucia Stamps

  • Rarity and Value: Early issues, limited editions, and stamps in mint condition are particularly valuable. Stamps with clear cancellations are also prized by collectors.
  • Thematic Collections: Many collectors focus on specific themes, such as royal portraits, local wildlife, or significant historical events.
  • Philatelic Societies: Joining philatelic societies can provide valuable resources and networking opportunities. The British Caribbean Philatelic Study Group and other specialized groups often offer resources for Saint Lucia stamps.

Obtaining Saint Lucia Stamps

  • Philatelic Dealers: Specialized dealers and auction houses often have a selection of Saint Lucia stamps, both historical and modern.
  • Online Platforms: Websites like eBay, Delcampe, and other philatelic marketplaces frequently list Saint Lucia stamps for sale.
  • Stamp Shows and Expos: Attending these events provides opportunities to buy, sell, and trade stamps, and connect with other collectors.
  • Postal Services: Saint Lucia’s postal service offers current stamps and information on new releases.

Example Stamps

  1. 1860 First Issue:
    • Profile of Queen Victoria.
    • Various denominations like 1 penny, 4 pence, and 6 pence.
  2. 1891 Key Plate Issue:
    • Standardized design featuring Queen Victoria’s profile.
    • Various denominations.
  3. 1938-1949 King George VI Definitive Series:
    • Depicted King George VI.
    • Local scenery and landmarks, such as the Pitons.
  4. 1953-1960 Queen Elizabeth II Definitive Series:
    • Profile of Queen Elizabeth II.
    • Local flora, fauna, and landmarks in designs.
  5. 1979 Independence Issue:
    • Celebrated independence from the United Kingdom.
    • National pride and cultural heritage designs.
  6. 1990 Bicentennial of the French Revolution:
    • Historical links with France.
    • French Revolution themes.
  7. 2000 Millennium Series:
    • Celebrated the new millennium.
    • Reflected the island’s past, present, and future.

Conclusion

Saint Lucia’s postage stamps provide a rich depiction of the island’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Collecting these stamps offers a tangible connection to Saint Lucia’s past and present, making it a rewarding pursuit for philatelists and enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in historical issues, local wildlife, or cultural heritage, Saint Lucia’s stamps provide a diverse and engaging collection experience.