Gwalior Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Gwalior Stamps
Gwalior was a major princely state located in Central India, within the broader political sphere of British India. Its postal history is characterized by the issuance of its own distinctive stamps, primarily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, before integration into the Indian Union. These issues typically featured local rulers' names or insignia and were denominated in the currency system of the time, often reflecting the local languages and scripts prevalent in the region. The state's postal autonomy ceased following India's independence in 1947, leading to the absorption of its postal services into the modern Indian postal system.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- South Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1885 – 1949
- Languages:
- Hindi, Marathi
- Currency:
- INR
- Parent issuer:
- British India
Stamp Catalogs
Gwalior stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Gwalior Stamp Series
First Official Issues (1885-1890)
Early issues featuring the portrait of Maharaja Madho Rao Scindia, often imperforate or roughly perforated.
King George V Issues (1911-1936)
Stamps overprinted 'GWALIOR' on British Indian stamps depicting King George V.
King George VI Issues (1937-1949)
Stamps overprinted 'GWALIOR' on British Indian stamps depicting King George VI, marking the final issues before integration.
Gwalior Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Gwalior stamps, especially overprints, are readily available. Early imperforate issues, errors, and high denominations in fine condition can fetch significant prices. Condition is crucial for value.
How to Identify Gwalior Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Gwalior stamps:
- 1 Look for the name 'GWALIOR' (often in English and local script) either as part of the design or as an overprint.
- 2 Early issues often feature the portrait of the Maharaja or the state's coat of arms.
- 3 Later issues are typically British Indian stamps overprinted 'GWALIOR' in various fonts and colors.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Gwalior stamps?
Gwalior stamps are postage stamps issued by the princely state of Gwalior in Central India, primarily between 1885 and 1949. These stamps were used for internal postal services within the state before its integration into independent India.
Are Gwalior stamps valuable?
The value of Gwalior stamps varies. Common overprinted issues are generally affordable, ranging from $1 to $20. However, rare early issues, imperforate varieties, errors, and high-denomination stamps in excellent condition can be quite valuable, potentially fetching hundreds of dollars or more. Factors like rarity, condition, and specific varieties greatly influence their market price.
How can I identify Gwalior stamps?
Gwalior stamps can be identified by the prominent inscription 'GWALIOR' (often in both English and local scripts like Hindi or Marathi) on the stamp. Early issues feature local designs, while later issues are typically British Indian stamps overprinted with 'GWALIOR'. For precise identification and catalog numbers, you can use a stamp identifier app or consult specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list Gwalior stamps?
Gwalior stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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