The first stamps of New Zealand were issued in 1855 and similar series followed. These were all called the “Chalons” because their image of Queen Victoria was based on a portrait by Alfred Chalon. They’re also called the “Full Face” issues because the Queen is shown facing front instead of in the usual profile. The first New Zealand commemoratives appeared in 1898, showcasing the natural beauty of New Zealand. In early 1920, a Victory Issue was created to celebrate the end of World War I. Four out of the six stamps show the British Lion, symbol of the British Empire. Interestingly, New Zealand’s postal fiscal stamps were valid for both tax and postage.
New Zealand