Gambia, one of the smallest nations in Africa, has a rich postal history dating back to the 19th century. The early stamps of Gambia are among the most distinctive in British colonial philately due to their embossed designs, intricate print details, and rarity. This article provides an in-depth exploration of Gambia’s postal history, covering the first issues, varieties, and errors that make these stamps highly sought after by collectors.
Historical Background: Gambia’s Early Postal System
The first postal system in Gambia was not formally established until the mid-19th century. British traders were present in the River Gambia region as early as the 17th century, but it was not until 1808 that the settlement was officially recognized as a British territory. Initially administered from Freetown, Sierra Leone, Gambia became a separate colony in 1843. By 1857, a British protectorate was declared along the riverbanks, covering 300 miles inland.
Gambia saw various administrative shifts, including a return to Sierra Leone’s control in 1865 and later recognition as a Crown Colony in 1888. Before 1858, there was no organized postal system, and correspondence was sent via trading ships or private couriers.
The First Stamps of Gambia (1869)
The Embossed Issues – 1869
Gambia’s first postage stamps were issued on March 18, 1869. These stamps are unique because they featured an embossed portrait of Queen Victoria, making them among the most visually striking issues in British colonial philately.
- Printing Method: The stamps were printed using typo-embossing by De La Rue & Co.
- Design: The stamps featured a profile portrait of Queen Victoria in relief, embossed onto coloured paper.
Key Varieties and Their Significance
The 1869 embossed issues exist in different colour varieties, shades, and watermark configurations. Below are the major catalogued variations:
- 4d. Brown – This was the standard issue, valued at £600 mint and £225 used.
- 4d. Pale Brown (1871 Issue) – A lighter shade introduced in 1871, valued at £500 mint and £200 used.
- 6d. Deep Blue – This is a common variety valued at £550 mint and £225 used.
- 6d. Blue (shades) – Includes multiple shade variations, priced at £600 mint and £180 used.
- 6d. Pale Blue (Postmarked 4.1.72) – This is an exceptionally rare stamp, valued at £3,250 mint and £1,100 used.
Rarity of the Pale Blue Variety
The 6d. Pale Blue (4 January 1872 postmark) is particularly rare due to its limited print run and the early use of the stamp. It should not be confused with the various shades of the standard 6d. Blue variety.
The 1874 Crown CC Issues – Expanding the Series
In August 1874, a new series was introduced featuring the same embossed design but with a Crown CC watermark to enhance security and prevent forgery. These stamps also came with more variations:
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4d. Brown
- Standard issue valued at £400 mint, £225 used.
- Inverted watermark variation: £900 mint, £425 used.
- Reversed watermark: £1,000 mint, £500 used.
- Inverted and reversed watermark: £1,100 mint, £500 used.
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4d. Pale Brown – Valued at £425 mint, £225 used.
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6d. Deep Blue
- Standard issue: £550 mint, £250 used.
- Inverted watermark: £1,100 mint, £450 used.
- Reversed watermark: £1,000 mint, £500 used.
- Inverted and reversed watermark: £1,100 mint, £500 used.
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6d. Blue
- Standard issue: £350 mint, £250 used.
- Sloping label variety: £950 mint, £450 used.
- Sideways watermark: £750 mint, £450 used.
Double Embossing – A Controversial Variety
Some stamps exhibit double embossing, a result of misregistration during the embossing process. However, these varieties have no special value in the market, as they are seen as printing defects rather than genuine philatelic rarities.
Collecting Gambia’s Embossed Stamps: Tips and Considerations
How to Identify Genuine Stamps
Due to their high value, these embossed stamps have been frequently forged or reproduced. Collectors should examine:
- Watermarks – Check for Crown CC or the absence of a watermark in early issues.
- Embossing Quality – Genuine stamps have sharp, deeply embossed reliefs.
- Postmarks and Cancellations – Used stamps should have legitimate postmarks.
Investment Potential
Gambia’s embossed stamps are highly sought after, with prices ranging from a few hundred to several thousand pounds, particularly for rarer varieties like the 6d. Pale Blue (1872 postmarked) or double watermark errors.
How to Store and Preserve
- Keep embossed stamps flat and avoid excess pressure, as embossing can weaken over time.
- Store in archival-quality stock books.
- Use UV light testing to detect potential forgery or alterations.
Conclusion
Gambia’s early embossed stamps represent a fascinating chapter in British colonial philately. With their unique production process, intricate embossing, and various rare varieties, they remain highly desirable for serious collectors. Whether you are new to philately or an experienced collector, these stamps offer an exciting glimpse into 19th-century postal history.
For collectors looking to expand their collection, carefully examining watermarks, print shades, and embossing quality is essential. With their high investment potential and historical significance, the embossed stamps of Gambia will continue to captivate collectors for generations to come.