Saudi Arabia Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Saudi Arabia Stamps
Saudi Arabia, situated in Western Asia on the Arabian Peninsula, developed its modern postal system primarily after the unification of the Kingdom in the early 20th century, moving away from reliance on Ottoman and later British-managed services. Stamps predominantly feature Arabic script, reflecting the official language, though English may appear on modern issues. The country joined the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1929, marking its formal integration into the international postal network, and its philatelic output chronicles the rapid modernization and expansion of the Saudi state throughout the mid-20th century.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Western Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1934 – present
- Languages:
- Arabic, English
- Currency:
- SAR
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- issuer:saudi-arabia.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Saudi Arabia stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Saudi Arabia Stamp Series
First Definitive Series (1934-1937)
The inaugural stamp series of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, featuring the Tughra (royal cipher) of King Abdulaziz ibn Saud.
Hajj Pilgrimage Series (1950s-Present)
Stamps commemorating the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, often depicting religious sites and pilgrims.
Development and Modernization Series (1960s-1980s)
Issues highlighting the rapid economic and infrastructural development of Saudi Arabia, including oil industry, education, and architecture.
Saudi Arabia Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, especially those from the Hejaz and Nejd periods before unification, can be quite valuable. Later definitive and commemorative issues are generally affordable, with higher values for rare errors, imperforates, or specific varieties. Condition is crucial for value.
How to Identify Saudi Arabia Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Saudi Arabia stamps:
- 1 Look for Arabic script as the primary language, often accompanied by English on modern issues.
- 2 Early stamps (pre-1934) may bear 'Hejaz' or 'Nejd' inscriptions.
- 3 The Tughra (royal cipher) of King Abdulaziz is a key feature on many early Saudi Arabian stamps.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Saudi Arabia stamps?
Saudi Arabia stamps are postage stamps issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, primarily since its unification in the early 20th century. They reflect the nation's history, culture, religion, and modernization.
Are Saudi Arabia stamps valuable?
The value of Saudi Arabia stamps varies significantly. Early issues from the Hejaz and Nejd regions, as well as the first definitive series of the unified kingdom, can be quite valuable, especially in good condition. Later common issues are generally inexpensive, but rare errors, varieties, or specific commemorative sets can fetch higher prices.
How can I identify Saudi Arabia stamps?
You can identify Saudi Arabia stamps by looking for Arabic script, often alongside English, and common motifs like the royal cipher (Tughra), national symbols, religious sites, and portraits of the royal family. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app that can scan and recognize stamps from Saudi Arabia.
Which catalogs list Saudi Arabia stamps?
Saudi Arabia 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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