St. Lucia – Scott #s 249-52

Description

Issued in 1969, St. Lucia Scott #249–252 is a commemorative stamp set marking the first anniversary of the Caribbean Free Trade Area (CARIFTA), an important step toward regional economic cooperation in the Caribbean. Established in 1968, CARIFTA sought to reduce trade barriers among participating territories and laid the groundwork for what would later become CARICOM.

The set consists of four visually coordinated designs. Two stamps feature a map of the Caribbean, highlighting member territories and emphasizing regional geography and interconnectedness. The remaining two stamps depict a central handshake motif, surrounded by radiating banners naming participating territories such as Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad, Grenada, Dominica, Antigua, Montserrat, Guyana, and St. Lucia. The handshake serves as a clear symbol of unity, cooperation, and shared economic purpose.

Bold color blocks, clean typography, and modern graphic design give the stamps a distinctly late-1960s aesthetic, setting them apart from more traditional engraved issues of earlier decades. The denominations—5c, 10c, 25c, and 35c—were chosen to cover a range of postal rates while reinforcing the commemorative message.

All stamps are offered mint never hinged (MNH), with full original gum, sharp perforations, and bright, well-preserved color. An appealing set for collectors of Caribbean regional organizations, economic history, or topical map and political issues.

Country: St. Lucia
Year of Issue: 1969
Scott Numbers: 249–252
Denominations: 5c, 10c, 25c, 35c
Condition: Mint Never Hinged (MNH)