Umm Al Qiwain Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Umm Al Qiwain Stamps
Umm Al Qiwain, one of the seven emirates that formed the United Arab Emirates, is geographically situated on the Arabian Peninsula in the Persian Gulf region of Western Asia. Its postal history is primarily defined by its status as a Trucial State, issuing its own distinctive stamps before joining the UAE federation in 1971. Stamps from this period predominantly feature Arabic script, often alongside English, reflecting the British influence as the protecting power. The transition to a unified postal system under the UAE marked the end of its independent postal administration.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Arabian Peninsula
- Issuing period:
- 1964 – 1972
- Languages:
- Arabic, English
- Currency:
- INR
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Stamp Catalogs
Umm Al Qiwain stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Umm Al Qiwain Stamp Series
Definitives (1964-1972)
Early definitive issues often featuring local scenes, rulers, or national symbols, sometimes overprinted.
Commemoratives (1964-1972)
Numerous commemorative sets issued for various international events, sports, and cultural themes, often targeting the thematic collector market.
Overprints (1964-1967)
Stamps initially issued for other Trucial States or India, overprinted for use in Umm Al Qiwain, particularly in the early years.
Umm Al Qiwain Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Many common issues are inexpensive, especially used. Full sets in mint condition, particularly early definitives and some thematic commemoratives, can fetch higher prices. Errors, varieties, and early overprints are generally the most valuable.
How to Identify Umm Al Qiwain Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Umm Al Qiwain stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Umm Al Qiwain' (or 'Umm al Qaiwain') in Latin script, often alongside Arabic script.
- 2 Stamps typically feature the name of the emirate and a denomination, sometimes with 'Trucial States' or 'Indian Postal Administration' overprints in earlier issues.
- 3 Many issues from the 1960s are colorful and depict a wide range of subjects, from local fauna to international events.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Umm Al Qiwain stamps?
Umm Al Qiwain stamps are postage stamps issued by the Trucial State of Umm Al Qiwain between 1964 and 1972, before it joined the United Arab Emirates. They reflect the emirate's independent postal administration during that period.
Are Umm Al Qiwain stamps valuable?
While many common Umm Al Qiwain stamps are readily available and inexpensive, certain issues can be quite valuable. These include early definitive sets, stamps with errors or varieties, and some complete commemorative sets in mint condition. Rarer items can fetch hundreds of dollars.
How can I identify Umm Al Qiwain stamps?
Umm Al Qiwain stamps are identifiable by the inscription 'Umm Al Qiwain' (or similar spellings) in Latin script, often accompanied by Arabic text. They typically feature the emirate's name and a postal denomination. For precise identification and cataloging, a stamp identifier app can be very helpful.
Which catalogs list Umm Al Qiwain stamps?
Umm Al Qiwain stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, designs, and estimated values.
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