Iuka Confederate Provisional Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Iuka (Confederate Postmaster Provisional) Stamps
Iuka is a historical region located in the southeastern United States, primarily within the state of Mississippi. Its postal history is integrated with that of the United States Postal Service, reflecting American administrative and political development across the 19th and 20th centuries. Stamps issued for use in this area bear English inscriptions typical of the US postal system, and its postal administration transitioned through various stages of the US federal system rather than operating as an independent entity. The region's postal narrative is therefore intrinsically linked to the broader history of US postal standardization and expansion.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- North America
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- Confederate States of America
Stamp Catalogs
Iuka (Confederate Postmaster Provisional) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Iuka (Confederate Postmaster Provisional) Stamp Series
Iuka Provisional (1861)
The sole known issue from Iuka, Mississippi, a 5-cent black on buff paper, handstamped by the local postmaster during the early days of the American Civil War.
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Iuka (Confederate Postmaster Provisional) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Iuka provisionals are exceedingly rare and highly sought after by Confederate philatelists. Their value is dependent on condition, provenance, and specific varieties (e.g., cancellation). Only a handful of examples are known to exist.
How to Identify Iuka (Confederate Postmaster Provisional) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Iuka (Confederate Postmaster Provisional) stamps:
- 1 Look for a handstamped '5' (for 5 cents) in black ink on buff-colored paper, often with a circular town cancellation 'IUKA MISS' and date.
- 2 These are provisional issues, meaning they were created locally due to a shortage of official Confederate stamps at the outbreak of the Civil War. Authenticity is paramount.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Iuka stamps?
Iuka stamps refer to a very rare Confederate Postmaster Provisional stamp issued in Iuka, Mississippi, in 1861. These were locally produced stamps used by the postmaster due to the unavailability of official Confederate postage during the early stages of the American Civil War.
Are Iuka stamps valuable?
Yes, Iuka stamps are extremely valuable. They are among the rarest and most desirable Confederate Postmaster Provisionals, with only a few examples known to exist. Their value can range from tens of thousands of dollars, depending on their condition and specific characteristics.
How can I identify Iuka stamps?
Iuka stamps are typically identified by a handstamped '5' (for 5 cents) in black ink on buff paper, often accompanied by a circular 'IUKA MISS' town cancellation and date. Due to their rarity and high value, expert authentication is essential. You can also use a stamp identifier app to help with initial recognition, but always seek professional verification for such significant items.
Which catalogs list Iuka stamps?
Iuka stamps are primarily listed in the Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers, under the Confederate States Postmaster Provisionals section. They are generally not found in international catalogs like Michel or Stanley Gibbons, as they are a highly specialized U.S. philatelic item.
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