Indian Expeditionary Forces Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Indian Expeditionary Forces Stamps
The Indian Expeditionary Forces stamps were issued by the British Indian postal administration to serve military personnel deployed overseas, primarily in the Middle East and East Africa during World War I. These issues fall under the broader postal history of British India, operating under the authority of the British Crown and adhering to international postal regulations of the era. The stamps predominantly feature English and often Urdu or other Indian languages, reflecting the multi-ethnic composition of the British Indian Army. Their issuance ceased following the conclusion of the major military campaigns, marking a temporary administrative postal extension rather than a permanent sovereign entity.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Levant, Mesopotamia, East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1914 – 1914
- Languages:
- English, Urdu
- Currency:
- INR
- Parent issuer:
- British India
Stamp Catalogs
Indian Expeditionary Forces stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Indian Expeditionary Forces Stamp Series
King George V Overprints (1914-1919)
Stamps of British India (King George V issues) overprinted with 'I.E.F.' or 'INDIAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCE' for use by military personnel.
Mesopotamia Overprints (1914-1919)
Specific overprints for the Mesopotamian campaign, often on Indian stamps, sometimes with additional local surcharges.
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Indian Expeditionary Forces Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value depends heavily on the specific overprint, the underlying Indian stamp, condition, and cancellation. Rarer overprints and those used in specific campaigns (e.g., East Africa) command higher prices. Forgeries are known.
How to Identify Indian Expeditionary Forces Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Indian Expeditionary Forces stamps:
- 1 Look for 'I.E.F.' or 'INDIAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCE' overprints on stamps of British India, primarily King George V issues.
- 2 Examine the overprint for authenticity; check for correct font, spacing, and color.
- 3 Verify the underlying Indian stamp's design, watermark, and perforation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Indian Expeditionary Forces stamps?
Indian Expeditionary Forces stamps are British Indian postage stamps overprinted for use by Indian military personnel serving overseas during World War I, primarily in the Middle East and East Africa. They were issued to provide postal services to these forces in areas where regular postal infrastructure was unavailable or under military control.
Are Indian Expeditionary Forces stamps valuable?
Yes, many Indian Expeditionary Forces stamps can be valuable, especially those with rare overprints, specific campaign usages, or in excellent condition. Values can range from a few pounds for common types to several thousands for rare varieties. The specific overprint, the underlying stamp, and the cancellation significantly influence their market price.
How can I identify Indian Expeditionary Forces stamps?
Indian Expeditionary Forces stamps are identified by overprints such as 'I.E.F.' or 'INDIAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCE' on standard British Indian stamps, predominantly King George V issues. Key identification involves recognizing the base stamp and verifying the authenticity and type of the overprint. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match the design and overprint to catalog entries.
Which catalogs list Indian Expeditionary Forces stamps?
Indian Expeditionary Forces stamps are extensively listed in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under British India or specific occupation issues), and the Michel Ostasien catalogue. These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values.
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