Barbados – Scott # 276, used

Description

This Barbados definitive stamp, Scott #276, was issued as part of a pictorial series highlighting the island’s marine life and natural environment. The design features brain coral (Colpophyllia species), a prominent reef-building coral found in the warm waters surrounding Barbados and throughout the Caribbean.

The stamp presents a detailed scientific-style illustration of the coral’s distinctive grooved surface, emphasizing texture and form rather than scenic context. This approach reflects a growing mid-20th-century trend in philately toward educational themes, using stamps to promote awareness of natural history and environmental resources. A small cameo portrait of Queen Elizabeth II appears in the upper corner, maintaining continuity with Commonwealth definitive design conventions.

Printed in a clean, modern style with strong contrast, the stamp balances clarity with visual interest. The earthy color palette complements the marine subject while ensuring legibility of denomination and inscriptions.

This example is offered used, bearing a light postal cancellation consistent with genuine commercial usage. Used copies are typical for this issue and remain popular with collectors of marine life, coral, and Caribbean-themed stamps.

Scott Catalog Number: 276
Denomination: 25 cents
Design: Brain Coral (Colpophyllia)
Condition: Used
Country: Barbados