Bahrain Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Bahrain Stamps
Bahrain is an island nation situated in the Persian Gulf, part of the Middle East and West Asia. Its postal history began under British influence, initially utilizing Indian postal administration before establishing its own service, which later joined the Universal Postal Union in 1960. Stamps predominantly feature Arabic script, often alongside English, reflecting the official languages. The transition from British postal agencies to a fully independent national postal system marks a key administrative shift in its philatelic record.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Persian Gulf
- Issuing period:
- 1933 – present
- Languages:
- Arabic, English
- Currency:
- BHD
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Stamp Catalogs
Bahrain stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Bahrain Stamp Series
Definitives with King George V (1933-1937)
Early issues overprinted 'BAHRAIN' on Indian stamps, featuring King George V.
King George VI Definitives (1938-1952)
Stamps overprinted 'BAHRAIN' on Indian issues, later British issues, depicting King George VI.
Decimal Currency Overprints (1966)
Overprints on existing stamps to reflect the transition to decimal currency (fils and dinars).
Bahrain Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Bahraini stamps is heavily influenced by their condition, rarity of the overprint (if applicable), and the specific catalog number. Early issues under British administration tend to be more valuable than later independent issues, with some exceptions for significant commemorative sets.
How to Identify Bahrain Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Bahrain stamps:
- 1 Look for the country name 'BAHRAIN' or 'البحرين' (Al-Bahrain) printed on the stamp.
- 2 Early issues (pre-1960s) are often overprints on stamps of British India or Great Britain.
- 3 Observe the currency: early issues use 'annas' and 'rupees', later issues use 'fils' and 'dinars'.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Bahrain stamps?
Bahrain stamps are postage stamps issued by the island nation of Bahrain, located in the Persian Gulf. Their philatelic history began with British postal administration, using overprinted Indian and British stamps, before establishing its own independent postal service and issuing its own designs.
Are Bahrain stamps valuable?
The value of Bahrain stamps varies significantly. Early issues, particularly those from the British postal agency period with specific overprints, varieties, or high denominations, can be quite valuable. More modern commemorative and definitive issues are generally less valuable, though complete sets or specific errors can still hold interest for collectors.
How can I identify Bahrain stamps?
You can identify Bahrain stamps by looking for the country name 'BAHRAIN' or 'البحرين' (Al-Bahrain) printed on them. Early stamps are often overprints on stamps of British India or Great Britain. For precise identification and catalog numbers, using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog like Scott, Michel, or Stanley Gibbons is recommended.
Which catalogs list Bahrain stamps?
Bahrain stamps are extensively listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issue dates, designs, varieties, and estimated market values.
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