Van Diemen´s Land Pre-adhesive Postal Markings 1822-1853 (Tasmanian (Australia) Stamp Exhibits)

This is an exhibit of postal markings found on mail to and from points in Van Diemen’s Land (Tasmania) during the period from the first postal decree October 1822 until the introduction of adhesives November 1853. Generally, handstamps were used in Hobart Town and Launceston. Most other (country) towns used manuscript markings. Exceptions were George Town (1822-24 only) and a few postmasters’ private datestamps introduced in 1850s. This is the most comprehensive exhibit of these markings available today.Although a postal markings study, close attention is given to verifying the complex and ever-changing postal rate structure in this early period and special routes giving rise to the postal markings. The exhibit is presented in chronological order within the structure of the postal markings used by the two main post offices of Hobart Town and Launceston to designate the type of postal service performed, followed by other (country) towns within each type of service. The period presented here reflects the growth of commerce and personal correspondence during the formative years of the postal system of Great Britain’s second oldest colony in Australia. Read more