Introduction: A Colonial Icon That Captured a Nation
The New Zealand one penny stamp holds a revered place in the country’s postal and philatelic history. Introduced in the mid-19th century, these stamps not only facilitated communication in a newly developing colony but have since become prized artifacts for collectors worldwide. Among them, the 1855–1873 Chalon Head series—featuring Queen Victoria—is especially coveted, with select varieties worth thousands at auction. More modern 20th-century one penny issues also command interest due to printing errors, plate flaws, and historical relevance.
The very first postage stamp issued by New Zealand was a one penny value in 1855, bearing the portrait of Queen Victoria—a design that continued for nearly 20 years.
Whether you’re a seasoned philatelist or someone who found an old stamp in a family album, understanding the value of a New Zealand one penny stamp depends on several factors: the year, color, paper type, watermark, and any rare printing anomalies.
Brief History of the One Penny Stamp in New Zealand
New Zealand’s first postage stamps were issued on July 18, 1855, making it one of the earliest adopters of a national postal system in the Southern Hemisphere. The Chalon Head design, taken from a portrait of Queen Victoria by Alfred Edward Chalon, was featured on the initial denominations of 1d (penny), 2d, and 1 shilling.
Early issues were printed in London, but by 1862, local production had begun in Wellington due to the increasing demand and logistical costs of overseas printing.
Over the next century, the one penny denomination was reissued in various styles, including:
- Chalon Heads (1855–1873)
- Pictorial series (1898 onwards)
- King George V and VI definitives
- Commemorative one penny stamps (e.g., 1940 centennial issue)
Each version has its own story, scarcity, and appeal to collectors.
Key Varieties and Estimated Values
The most collectible and valuable one penny stamps from New Zealand include the following:
1. 1855–1873 Chalon Head (1d Red)
These are the oldest and most valuable one penny stamps. Printed on blue paper and later on white, their value depends heavily on condition, perforation, watermark, and whether it’s imperforate or perforated.
- Value Range:
- Used: $200–$3,000
- Mint: $2,500–$20,000+ (depending on variety)
- Rare plate errors or blocks: up to $100,000+ at auction
Did You Know? Some early Chalon Head 1d stamps were printed on horizontally laid paper, a variation that dramatically increases value.
2. 1909 King Edward VII Definitive (1d Red)
These red stamps, printed in large quantities, usually carry modest values unless accompanied by plate flaws or unusual cancellations.
- Value Range:
- Used: $1–$10
- Mint: $5–$50
- With plate flaws: up to $150
3. 1915 King George V 1d Red (Recess-printed)
Printed by the Government Printing Office in Wellington, these stamps feature slight variations in watermark and perforation.
- Value Range:
- Mint examples: $20–$100
- Used: typically under $10 unless on cover
4. 1935 Pictorial Definitives & 1940 Centennial 1d Issues
While most 20th-century one penny stamps are not rare, certain plate varieties and centennial commemoratives are popular with thematic collectors.
- Value Range:
- Regular used: face value to $2
- Mint blocks or error prints: $20–$250
Some 1d red centennial stamps of 1940 were accidentally printed with double impressions, making them highly sought after by error collectors.
Factors That Affect Value
To determine the true value of any New Zealand 1d stamp, consider the following factors:
Condition
Stamps in mint never hinged (MNH) condition are worth significantly more than used or hinged examples. Heavy cancellation marks or tears can greatly reduce value.
Gum and Perforation
For mint stamps, intact gum and sharp perforations are critical. Missing perfs or disturbed gum usually lead to a lower valuation.
Watermark
Some issues used different watermarks over time. A rare watermark variety (like NZ & Star or NZ in double-lined letters) can make an otherwise common stamp far more desirable.
Color and Printing Errors
Look out for color shifts, double prints, missing frames, or inverted watermarks. These printing anomalies are among the most valuable stamps in any collection.
Rare Errors and Unique Finds
The following rare errors have appeared on one penny New Zealand stamps:
- Inverted Watermark on 1d George V
- Double Prints on 1940 Centennial Issue
- Imperforate Pair of Chalon Head
- Albino Print (no ink impression)
- Color changelings (chemical reaction due to storage)
Stamps exhibiting these characteristics can fetch hundreds or even thousands depending on rarity and provenance.
Collector Tips for One Penny Stamps
Check Early and Modern Catalogs
Use specialized New Zealand stamp catalogs (e.g., Campbell Paterson) to cross-reference watermark, plate numbers, and paper types.
Examine With Tools
Use a perforation gauge, watermark detector, and UV light to verify authenticity and detect repairs or re-gumming.
Storage Matters
Store in acid-free stock books or mounts. Avoid plastic sleeves with PVC and exposure to high humidity.
Did You Know? Early stamps were often affixed to letters with wax, gum, or even flour paste. Remnants of these can sometimes be seen on early used stamps.
Look for Covers
Stamps on original postal covers with clear postmarks or transit marks often fetch higher prices than loose examples.
Buying and Selling Guide
Where to Buy
- Local stamp dealers and philatelic exhibitions (especially in New Zealand and Australia)
- Online marketplaces like eBay, HipStamp, and Delcampe
- Major auctions such as Mowbray Collectables or Spink offer premium lots
Where to Sell
- List higher-end items through auction houses with philatelic expertise
- For lower-value stamps, bulk lots on online platforms or local collector groups are ideal
Tip: Always provide high-resolution scans and note watermarks, perforations, and any errors when selling—this boosts buyer confidence and price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 1855 New Zealand one penny stamp rare?
Yes, especially in mint condition or with varieties like blue paper, imperf edges, or full margins. Even used examples can fetch high prices.
Q: What’s the difference between the Chalon Head and later one penny stamps?
The Chalon Head shows Queen Victoria and is part of New Zealand’s earliest issues (1855–73), while later stamps feature monarchs like Edward VII or George V and switch to modern designs.
Q: How do I tell if my one penny stamp has a rare watermark?
Use a watermark tray with fluid, or a Signoscope. Compare the watermark shape and orientation to reference charts from catalogs.
Q: Can a stamp with a tear still be valuable?
It depends on rarity. If it’s a unique variety (e.g., imperforate Chalon), even damaged examples have collector interest—though value is reduced.
Q: Are all red one penny stamps valuable?
No. Many 20th-century 1d red stamps are common. Check date, watermark, and errors to determine if yours is collectible.
Conclusion
The New Zealand one penny stamp is more than just a tiny piece of paper—it’s a window into the country’s colonial beginnings, royal history, and evolving postal system. While some stamps, especially from the Victorian era, can command five-figure prices, others are affordable and perfect for building a thematic or historical collection.
For collectors, the key lies in the details: watermarks, condition, errors, and history. Whether you’re chasing the elusive Chalon Head or documenting King George’s definitive series, New Zealand’s one penny issues offer an exciting and educational collecting journey.