Postage Stamps from the Australian states

Collecting postage stamps from the Australian states offers a fascinating glimpse into the early postal history of Australia. Before the federation in 1901, each Australian colony issued its own stamps. Here’s an overview of notable aspects and themes found in these stamps:

New South Wales

• First Issues (1850):
  The first stamps of New South Wales were issued in 1850. Known as the “Sydney Views,” these stamps depicted a view of Sydney.
• Definitive Issues:
  Later stamps featured Queen Victoria, local flora and fauna, and significant colonial events.

Victoria

• First Issues (1850):
  Victoria’s first stamps also appeared in 1850, featuring the portrait of Queen Victoria. These are known for their intricate designs and variety of colors.
• Half Lengths” and “Queen on Throne”:
  Early stamps include the “Half Lengths” series and the Queen on Throne” designs, which are highly collectible due to their historical significance.

Queensland

• First Issues (1860):
  Queensland issued its first stamps in 1860, depicting Queen Victoria. These were typically simple designs with the queen’s profile.
• Chalon Heads:
  The “Chalon Head” design, featuring a profile of Queen Victoria based on Alfred Edward Chalon’s portrait, was used extensively.

South Australia

• First Issues (1855):
  South Australia’s first stamps were issued in 1855, featuring a profile of Queen Victoria. These stamps are notable for their different frame designs and varying perforations.
• Classic Designs:
  Early issues include stamps with intricate engravings and elaborate designs.

Tasmania (formerly Van Diemen’s Land)

• First Issues (1853):
  Tasmania’s first stamps, issued in 1853, are known as the “Courier” stamps due to the newspaper that printed them. These stamps depicted Queen Victoria.
• Classic and Pictorial Issues:
  Later stamps featured scenic views and local wildlife, in addition to Queen Victoria’s portrait.

Western Australia

• First Issues (1854):
  The famous “Black Swan” stamps were Western Australia’s first issues, released in 1854. These stamps are highly prized by collectors for their design and rarity.
• Swan Designs:
  The swan motif remained a prominent feature in subsequent issues, symbolizing the colony.

Key Themes and Collectibility

• Royal Portraits:
  Many early stamps from Australian states prominently feature Queen Victoria, reflecting the colonial ties to Britain.
• Local Icons and Wildlife:
  Stamps often depicted local symbols, flora, and fauna, which are significant for their representation of the colonies’ unique characteristics.
• Varieties and Errors:
  Stamps from this period are known for their varieties and printing errors, which add to their collectibility.

Collecting Resources

• Stamp Catalogs:
  Collectors refer to specialized catalogs such as the Stanley Gibbons and Scott Catalogues, which provide detailed information on Australian state stamps.
• Philatelic Societies:
  Joining societies like the Australian Philatelic Society can provide access to specialized knowledge and a community of collectors.

Online Resources

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Overview

Postage stamps from the Australian states are a rich field for philatelic exploration, reflecting the historical and cultural development of each colony before federation. From the intricate designs of early issues to the diverse themes of local wildlife and significant events, these stamps offer a unique glimpse into Australia’s early postal history.