Bamra Stamps
Bamra was a princely state located in the Eastern States Agency of British India, situated within the modern-day state of Odisha, India. Its postal history is characterized by the issuance of its own provisional stamps, primarily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, before integration into the broader British Indian postal system.
- Issued stamps
- 1889–1890
- Region
- Asia, South Asia
- Currency
- INR
- Languages
- Odia, English
- Issuer type
- Local postal administration
- Part of
- British India
About Bamra stamps
The script used on these local issues reflects the regional languages of the area, predominantly Odia. Following India's independence in 1947, Bamra acceded to the Indian Union, and its distinct postal administration ceased as its territory was absorbed into the postal network of independent India.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- BAMRA
- BAMRAH
How to identify Bamra stamps
- Look for the name 'BAMRA' or 'BAMRAH' in Odia script, often overprinted or surcharged on British Indian stamps.
- Examine the overprint for specific types and varieties, as these can significantly impact value.
- Verify the paper, printing method, and watermarks (if any) against known examples for authenticity.
Popular series
-
Provisional Issues
1889-1890
The primary issues of Bamra, consisting of surcharged or overprinted stamps of British India or locally produced designs.
-
Court Fee Stamps used for Postal Purposes
Late 19th Century
Some court fee stamps were occasionally pressed into postal service due to scarcity of regular postal issues.
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–$1,000+
The value of Bamra stamps varies significantly based on condition, specific issue (especially surcharges and overprints), and rarity. Genuine provisional issues, particularly those with clear postmarks, command higher prices. Forgeries and altered stamps are common, necessitating expert authentication.
Catalogs. Bamra 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 Bamra stamps
Bamra stamps are provisional postal issues from the princely state of Bamra, located in British India (modern-day Odisha). These stamps were issued for local use primarily between 1889 and 1890 before the state fully integrated into the British Indian postal system. They often feature overprints or surcharges on British Indian stamps, or unique local designs.
Yes, some Bamra stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare provisional issues, specific overprint varieties, and those in fine condition with clear postmarks. Common examples might range from $5-$50, while rare items can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Due to their rarity and the prevalence of forgeries, expert authentication is often recommended for higher-value pieces.
To identify Bamra stamps, look for the name 'BAMRA' or 'BAMRAH' in Odia script, often appearing as an overprint or surcharge on stamps that might otherwise resemble British Indian issues. Pay close attention to the details of the overprint, including its font, color, and position. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Bamra stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott (often under 'Indian States' or 'Convention States'), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values for the various issues from Bamra.
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