Indian Feudatory States Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Indian Feudatory States Stamps
The Indian Feudatory States, encompassing hundreds of princely states across the Indian subcontinent in South Asia, maintained a complex postal relationship under the British Raj. While the British Indian postal system provided overarching service, these states issued their own distinctive stamps, often featuring local rulers' names or crests, reflecting their semi-autonomous status. The languages appearing on these issues varied widely, reflecting local dialects and the administrative influence of English. The postal history of these states effectively concluded with the political integration of India following independence in 1947, leading to the cessation of their separate postal administrations.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- South Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1864 – 1950
- Languages:
- English, Hindi, Urdu, Gujarati, Marathi, Bengali, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Oriya, Punjabi
- Currency:
- INR
- Parent issuer:
- British India
Stamp Catalogs
Indian Feudatory States stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Indian Feudatory States Stamp Series
Court Fee Stamps used for Postal Purposes (Late 19th Century)
Many states initially used revenue or court fee stamps for postal purposes, often overprinted or surcharged.
Early Native Issues (1860s-1880s)
Featuring crude designs, often hand-stamped or lithographed, with local rulers' names or state crests.
Convention States Issues (1880s-1940s)
Stamps of British India overprinted with the name of the princely state, indicating a postal convention with British India.
Indian Feudatory States Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value varies greatly depending on the specific state, rarity, condition, and whether it's an early native issue, convention state overprint, or a later feudatory issue. Errors, proofs, and covers command significant premiums.
How to Identify Indian Feudatory States Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Indian Feudatory States stamps:
- 1 Look for the name of the specific princely state (e.g., 'Hyderabad', 'Travancore', 'Gwalior', 'Jind', 'Patiala').
- 2 Identify the language(s) used on the stamp, which can help narrow down the state.
- 3 Observe the design elements, such as portraits of rulers, local crests, or unique symbols.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Indian Feudatory States stamps?
Indian Feudatory States stamps were issued by hundreds of princely states across the Indian subcontinent, which maintained their own postal systems alongside or in conjunction with British India. These stamps reflect the semi-autonomous status of these states before their integration into India post-1947.
Are Indian Feudatory States stamps valuable?
The value of Indian Feudatory States stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for a few dollars, while rare early native issues, specific errors, or stamps from less common states can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Condition, postmark, and historical significance also play a crucial role in determining value.
How can I identify Indian Feudatory States stamps?
To identify Indian Feudatory States stamps, look for the name of the specific princely state, often in local languages and sometimes in English. Pay attention to the designs, which frequently feature local rulers, crests, or unique cultural motifs. Utilizing a stamp identifier app can greatly assist in pinpointing the exact state and issue.
Which catalogs list Indian Feudatory States stamps?
Major philatelic catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons all list stamps from the Indian Feudatory States. Stanley Gibbons is particularly comprehensive for British Commonwealth and related issues, often providing detailed listings for these states.
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