Alwar Stamps
Alwar was a princely state located in the Rajputana region of modern-day Rajasthan, India, situated in South Asia. Its postal history is characterized by the issuance of its own provisional and definitive stamps, primarily used within the state before integration into the British Indian postal system, though it maintained a degree of internal autonomy.
- Issued stamps
- 1877–1901
- Region
- Asia, South Asia
- Currency
- INR
- Languages
- Urdu, Hindi
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- British India
About Alwar stamps
The inscriptions on these early issues typically appeared in Urdu or Hindi, reflecting the local administrative languages of the Rajputana Agency. Following Indian independence in 1947, Alwar acceded to the Indian Union, and its distinct postal issues ceased as its services were absorbed into the unified postal administration of India.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Alwar stamps
- Look for inscriptions in Urdu or Hindi scripts, often accompanied by the name 'Alwar' in English on later issues.
- Early provisional issues are often crude hand-stamps, sometimes on cut-to-shape paper.
- Examine watermarks (if any) and paper types, which can be crucial for distinguishing genuine issues from forgeries.
Popular series
-
Provisional Issues
1877-1879
Early provisional stamps, often hand-stamped, featuring the state's name in local scripts. These are highly sought after due to their scarcity and historical significance.
-
Definitive Issues
1890-1901
Later definitive issues, typically featuring the portrait of the Maharaja or state emblems, inscribed in Urdu or Hindi. These were printed more formally than the provisionals.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- $5–$50
- Scarce stamps
- $100–$5,000+
The value of Alwar stamps varies significantly based on condition, rarity, and whether they are provisional or definitive issues. Early provisional hand-stamps, especially on cover, command the highest prices. Later definitive issues are generally more accessible.
Catalogs. Alwar stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about Alwar stamps
Alwar stamps are postage stamps issued by the princely state of Alwar, located in the Rajputana region of India, between 1877 and 1901. These stamps were used for internal postal services within the state before its postal system was fully integrated into British India's.
Yes, many Alwar stamps can be valuable, particularly the early provisional issues from 1877-1879, especially if they are in good condition or on cover. Later definitive issues are generally less rare but still hold philatelic interest. Values can range from a few dollars for common examples to several thousand for rare provisionals.
To identify Alwar stamps, look for inscriptions in Urdu or Hindi scripts, often with the name 'Alwar' in English on later issues. Early stamps are often hand-stamped. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Alwar stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott (under 'Indian States'), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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