Among the most admired stamps of the classic philatelic period (1840–1870) is the Queen Victoria Plum from Ceylon, issued in 1857. With its distinctive plum colour and elegant depiction of Queen Victoria, this six-pence gem stands as a shining example of Britain’s global postal influence and remains a prized rarity for collectors worldwide. Commemorated in a 24kt gold replica issued by Antigua & Barbuda, the Queen Victoria Plum carries with it a tale of colonial history, artistry, and scarcity.
The Story Behind the Queen Victoria Plum
Ceylon, now known as Sri Lanka, was an important crown colony of the British Empire. As the postal system expanded globally, Ceylon joined the list of regions producing their own adhesive stamps to facilitate mail delivery.
In 1857, the six-pence Queen Victoria Plum was issued, beautifully designed and printed by Perkins, Bacon & Co., renowned for their meticulous craftsmanship. Featuring a profile of a youthful Queen Victoria, the stamp stands out with its unique plum shade, which further enhances its visual appeal.
At the time, many of Ceylon’s early stamps, including the Queen Victoria Plum, were overlooked by collectors, leading to limited preservation. Over time, their rarity became widely recognized, turning these stamps into coveted classics.
Why is it Special?
- A Classic Gem: Part of the “classic period” of stamps (1840–1870), the Queen Victoria Plum is celebrated for its historical significance.
- Colonial Heritage: It represents the British Empire’s influence on global postal systems during the 19th century.
- Rarity and Design: The plum colour, combined with its elegant engraving, makes it one of the most beautiful and elusive Ceylonese stamps.
Stamps like the Queen Victoria Plum reflect the early days of international mail systems and Britain’s strong connection to its colonies.
Current Market Value
The Queen Victoria Plum remains highly sought-after by philatelists:
- A mint-condition example can fetch prices of $15,000 to $30,000 USD, depending on provenance and condition.
- Even well-preserved used examples are valued between $2,000 and $5,000 USD, making it a premium collectible.
Its rarity and status as a classic stamp ensure it continues to command high prices at auctions.
Antigua & Barbuda’s Golden Tribute
On April 4, 1986, Antigua & Barbuda issued an official 24kt gold replica of the Queen Victoria Plum stamp. Accompanied by an enlarged reproduction of the 1857 original, this tribute celebrates one of the most beautiful stamps of the classic philatelic era, honouring its artistry and historical legacy.
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