2025 Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps Catalogue 1840-1970

Now Available: Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps 1840–1970 – 2025 Edition
The Definitive Reference for Collectors and Dealers of Commonwealth Philately

Recognized worldwide as the most authoritative guide to Great Britain and Commonwealth stamps, Stanley Gibbons’ Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps 1840–1970 – 2025 Edition is the essential catalogue for collectors, dealers, and investors alike. Spanning the golden era of philately, this comprehensive reference lists and prices every stamp issued across the Commonwealth from the iconic Penny Black through to 1970.

Every edition of the "Part 1" catalogue is a cornerstone for serious collectors, and the 2025 Edition continues that legacy with expanded content and the latest market pricing. Expertly compiled, it offers detailed listings that include variations in watermark, paper, perforation, printing methods, major shades, plate flaws, errors, stamp booklets, officials, postage dues, government telegraph stamps, and much more—all uniquely referenced by SG number.

Packed with full-colour illustrations, the catalogue also features valuable collecting insights, including guidance on unusual usages, overprint settings, and identifying forgeries. A helpful six-page guide to stamp condition and a section on valuing stamps on commercial cover (up to 1945) make this an indispensable tool for collectors of all levels.

Key Updates and Additions in the 2025 Edition:

• Newly priced listings for Cape of Good Hope stamps used in Basutoland, complementing the established Transvaal used in Swaziland section.
• Comprehensive review of Rhodesia’s 1910–1913 ‘Double Head’ definitives, updated with new shades and revised descriptions, thanks to expert input from the Rhodesian Study Circle.
• Revised listings of British stamps used in Ascension, including new separate entries for the two Edward VII ½d. values.
• Newly listed varieties such as the ‘Jibstay’ flaw on Ascension’s King George VI 1½d., the ‘Hollow S’ on Australia’s 1932 official overprints, and the ‘Cigar stub’ flaw on Newfoundland’s 3c. Long Coronation issue.
• Expanded notes throughout, including new identifiers for Australia’s Die I and Die II 3d. Kangaroo and Map stamps.
• Bonus content featuring two fascinating articles from Gibbons Stamp Monthly: one tracing the evolution of the royal portrait on British stamps and another exploring how colonial Malaya overcame a stamp shortage.

Presented in a strengthened, casebound format for lasting durability, the 2025 Edition remains the most up-to-date and trusted resource for navigating the vibrant and ever-changing Commonwealth stamp market.

Whether you’re a collector, dealer, or investor, this catalogue is your essential guide to one of the world’s most active and sought-after collecting areas. Stanley Gibbons' books now available.