Jersey — Stamps & Postal Service

Postal Service Overview

Jersey Post is the Channel Island’s postal operator, independent from Royal Mail since 1 October 1969. Jersey — the largest of the Channel Islands — issues a distinguished series of stamps reflecting its Norman heritage, maritime history, and natural environment. Like Guernsey, Jersey was occupied by German forces during WWII (1940–1945), producing occupation stamps that are among WWII’s most historically significant British philatelic items. Jersey is a popular collecting area for British Commonwealth and European collectors.

Notable Stamp Issues

Jersey’s WWII occupation stamps (1941–1945) are the territory’s most historically significant philatelic material — produced under German occupation with severe material shortages. The 1943 Jersey cow definitives are particularly charming examples of stamps produced under difficult conditions. Independent Jersey stamps began 1 October 1969 with a set featuring Jersey scenes. Subsequent definitive and commemorative issues have featured the Jersey cow, Jersey Royal potatoes, Gerald Durrell (who founded the Jersey Zoo), maritime history, and the Bailiff’s ceremonial regalia.

Collecting Tips

Occupation stamps (1941–1945) are listed in Stanley Gibbons British Commonwealth catalogue and are a specialist WWII area. Independent Jersey stamps (1969–present) offer wide variety. Jersey has produced many outstanding wildlife sets through its association with the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust. The Jersey cow definitives across multiple series are a popular specialist area. Jersey’s postal history as a major privateering base in the Napoleonic era produces interesting pre-stamp maritime covers.

Part of the Europe Postal Directory.