St. Vincent – Scott #s 174-75

Description

This St. Vincent commemorative stamp pair, Scott #174–175, was issued in 1950 to honor the University College of the West Indies (UCWI), one of the most important educational institutions in the Caribbean and the predecessor of today’s University of the West Indies.

The 3-cent stamp features the official coat of arms of the University College of the West Indies, incorporating heraldic symbols of learning and enlightenment. The Latin motto “Oriens ex Occidente Lux” (“Light rising from the West”) reflects the institution’s mission to advance higher education in the Caribbean.

The 12-cent stamp depicts Princess Alice, Countess of Athlone, who served as Chancellor of the University College of the West Indies. She is shown in academic regalia, emphasizing the formal traditions of higher education and the institution’s ties to the British Commonwealth during the colonial period.

Both stamps are engraved in a classic mid-20th-century style with fine linework, balanced composition, and clear typography. The paired designs complement each other by combining institutional symbolism with a prominent ceremonial figure.

This complete pair is offered mint never hinged (MNH), with full original gum and no hinge marks or disturbance. MNH examples are desirable for collectors of Caribbean philately, education-themed stamps, and British Commonwealth issues.

• Scott Catalog Numbers: 174–175

• Denominations: 3¢, 12¢

• Design: University College of the West Indies – Arms and Princess Alice

• Condition: Mint Never Hinged (MNH)

• Country: St. Vincent