Fiji - Bud's Big Blue

1870-71 Fiji Times 1p black/pink

Bud's Big Blue
Bud's Observations

Because Great Britain was slow in issuing stamps for Fiji, a newspaper stepped forward to fill the void (see above). The operation was quickly shut, but the stamps command high prices if they’re genuine. 

The blue one penny with the left corner void (top row page 1) is a known variety. Several early Fijian stamps have rosy asking prices on internet auctions, but they sell poorly. For optimistic dealers Fiji has become Fantasy Island.

Census: 52 in BB spaces, nine tip-ins.

Jim's Observations

The earlier issues are expensive. But more notably, except for two stamps, they do not show a portrait of Queen Victoria. Rather, they have a "Crown and C.R. (Cakobau Regina)" or a "Crown and V.R. (Victoria Regina)" design, or a "V.R." overprint.

There is a nice "Fijian Canoe" design  found on four stamps between 1893-96. 

After 1903 with the King Edward VII issue, Fijian stamps follow the more traditional British Colony patterns.

Fiji Blog Post and BB Checklist

Page 1 (Click and enlarge for examination)

1a

1b

1c

Page 2

2a

2b

2c

Note: Fiji Times header stamp from an Internet source appears to be public domain.

Comments appreciated!