Hyderabad Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Hyderabad (Princely State) Stamps
Hyderabad was a large princely state located in the Deccan Plateau region of South Asia, primarily within the modern-day Republic of India. Before its accession to India in 1948, the state maintained its own postal system, issuing stamps that reflected its unique political status under the British Raj, though it was never directly ruled by the British Crown. Stamps from this period typically feature Urdu and English inscriptions, often displaying the Nizam's effigy or state insignia. The postal history of Hyderabad is notable for its distinct issues prior to its integration into the Indian postal network following the political reorganization of the subcontinent.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- South Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1869 – 1948
- Languages:
- Urdu, English
- Currency:
- INR
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Stamp Catalogs
Hyderabad (Princely State) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Hyderabad (Princely State) Stamp Series
First Issues (Half Anna) (1869-1879)
The iconic 'Half Anna' issues, featuring the Tughra (Nizam's monogram) and often printed on various papers, are highly sought after.
Official Stamps (Service) (1890s-1940s)
Stamps overprinted with 'SERVICE' or 'ON H.H. THE NIZAM'S SERVICE' for official government use, often with distinct designs.
King George V and VI Issues (1911-1947)
Issues featuring portraits of British monarchs, but with Hyderabad's unique inscriptions in Urdu and English, reflecting its semi-autonomous status.
Hyderabad (Princely State) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Hyderabad stamps are affordable, but early issues, errors, varieties (e.g., paper, printing), and high-value definitives can fetch significant prices. Official stamps and postal history items are also highly collectible.
How to Identify Hyderabad (Princely State) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Hyderabad (Princely State) stamps:
- 1 Look for inscriptions in Urdu (often in Nastaliq script) and English.
- 2 Many early issues feature the Tughra (Nizam's monogram) as the central design.
- 3 Later issues often depict the Nizam's portrait, local architecture, or cultural symbols.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Hyderabad stamps?
Hyderabad stamps were issued by the princely state of Hyderabad, located in the Deccan Plateau of India, between 1869 and 1948. These stamps served its independent postal system before its integration into the Indian postal network.
Are Hyderabad stamps valuable?
The value of Hyderabad stamps varies widely. Common issues are generally inexpensive, but early issues, particularly the 'Half Anna' series with varieties, official stamps, errors, and high-denomination definitives, can be quite valuable, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
How can I identify Hyderabad stamps?
Hyderabad stamps are identifiable by their unique designs, which often include the Nizam's Tughra or portrait, and inscriptions in both Urdu and English. Key features like paper type, watermarks, and printing methods are also important. For precise identification, consider using a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list Hyderabad stamps?
Hyderabad stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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