USSR Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) Stamps
The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) spanned Eastern Europe and North Asia, representing the largest contiguous state in history. Its postal system, established after the 1917 Revolution, was a key instrument of state communication and propaganda, joining the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1924. Stamps predominantly featured Russian Cyrillic script, though issues from constituent republics sometimes included local languages. The postal history is sharply divided by the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, leading to the immediate emergence of fifteen independent successor states, each establishing its own postal administration.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Eastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1923 – 1991
- Languages:
- Russian, Ukrainian, Belarusian, Kazakh, Uzbek, Georgian, Azerbaijani, Lithuanian, Moldovan, Latvian, Kyrgyz, Tajik, Armenian, Turkmen, Estonian
- Currency:
- SUR
- issuer:ussr.overview.parentIssuer:
- issuer:ussr.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) Stamp Series
First Definitive Series (1923-1927)
Early issues featuring workers, peasants, and symbols of the new Soviet state, often with a distinctive 'hammer and sickle' watermark.
Sports Series (1930s-1980s)
Numerous issues celebrating various sports, athletes, and major sporting events like the Olympics, often colorful and dynamic.
Space Exploration (1957-1991)
A highly popular theme, commemorating Sputnik, Yuri Gagarin, Vostok and Soyuz missions, and other achievements in the Soviet space program.
Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common USSR stamps are generally inexpensive, especially later issues. Early issues, errors, imperforates, and stamps with significant historical context (e.g., early airmail, pre-WWII issues) can command high prices. Condition is crucial, with mint never-hinged examples being most desirable.
How to Identify Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ПОЧТА СССР' (POCHTA SSSR) or 'ПОЧТА' (POCHTA) in Cyrillic script.
- 2 The hammer and sickle emblem, often alongside a star, is a common motif.
- 3 Dates are typically in the Gregorian calendar, often in the format 'Г.' (G. for Goda - year) or just the year.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are USSR stamps?
USSR stamps are postage stamps issued by the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics from its formation in 1923 until its dissolution in 1991. They served as a primary means of communication and propaganda, reflecting the political, social, and cultural narratives of the Soviet state.
Are USSR stamps valuable?
The value of USSR stamps varies widely. While many later issues are common and inexpensive, early issues, particularly those from the 1920s and 1930s, as well as errors, varieties, and stamps related to significant historical events, can be quite valuable. Factors like condition, rarity, and demand from collectors heavily influence their worth.
How can I identify USSR stamps?
You can identify USSR stamps by looking for the Cyrillic inscription 'ПОЧТА СССР' (POCHTA SSSR), the hammer and sickle symbol, and depictions of Soviet life, leaders, and achievements. For precise identification and catalog numbers, use a specialized stamp catalog or a stamp identifier app that can scan and recognize the stamp.
Which catalogs list USSR stamps?
USSR stamps are extensively listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (USA), Michel (Germany), and Stanley Gibbons (UK). These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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