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Stamp values

Australian stamp values: what your Australian stamps are worth

Before 1913 each Australian colony issued its own stamps. The Commonwealth then introduced the Kangaroo and Map design, which collectors call “Roos”. Roos and King George V heads exist in many watermark and die varieties, and those details drive the price.

Short answer

Most Australian stamps issued after 1966 (decimal currency) are worth cents or face value. Kangaroo and Map stamps from 1913 to 1945 range from a few dollars to thousands, depending on watermark, die and value. Colonial classics such as the Western Australia Inverted Swan are rarities.

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What most Australian stamps are worth

Decimal-era stamps were printed in large quantities and many collections contain full sheets bought at the post office. These sell near or below face value. The Roos and KGV heads are different: the same design appears with several watermarks and dies, and the rarer combinations are worth much more.

Valuable stamps to look for

  • 1913

    Kangaroo and Map high values (1913–1945)

    The £1 and £2 values, especially in good condition, are the key stamps of the series.

  • 1855

    Western Australia Inverted Swan (1855)

    A 4d stamp with the frame printed upside down. One of the classic colonial errors.

  • 1914

    King George V heads (1914–1936)

    Many dies, watermarks and perforations, with large price differences.

What to check before you price a stamp

  1. 1

    Identify the watermark on Roos (wide crown, narrow crown, multiple crown). It changes the value.

  2. 2

    Check the die on KGV heads. The differences are small but listed separately in the ACSC.

  3. 3

    Separate colonial stamps (before 1913) by colony.

  4. 4

    Look for specimen overprints and CTO cancels, which have their own prices.

Questions about Australia stamps

Are old Australian stamps worth anything?

Pre-decimal stamps, especially Roos and colonial issues, often have value. Decimal stamps after 1966 are mostly worth face value or less.

How much is a Kangaroo and Map stamp worth?

From a few dollars for common used values to thousands for high values and rare watermark varieties.

Which catalog should I use for Australian stamps?

The ACSC for detail, and Stanley Gibbons for a general overview.

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