Bussahir Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Bussahir (Bushire) Stamps
Bussahir, historically known as the State of Bushire or Bushehr, is a region situated on the Persian Gulf coast of modern-day Iran. Its postal history is deeply intertwined with the British Indian Ocean mail routes, as it served as a crucial commercial and diplomatic outpost for the British Empire in the Gulf region. Prior to unified Iranian national issues, local postal services often utilized British Indian stamps overprinted for use in the Persian Gulf Residency. The stamps from this era predominantly feature Persian script alongside English, reflecting the administrative duality of the region under Qajar and later Pahlavi rule before its full integration into the modern Iranian postal system.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Persian Gulf
- Issuing period:
- 1895 – 1900
- Languages:
- Persian, English
- Currency:
- INR
- Parent issuer:
- British India
Stamp Catalogs
Bussahir (Bushire) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Bussahir (Bushire) Stamp Series
British Indian Stamps Overprinted 'Bussahir' (1895-1898)
These issues consist of regular British Indian stamps (Queen Victoria series) surcharged or overprinted with 'Bussahir' in Persian and sometimes English, indicating their use in the British postal agency at Bushire.
Provisional Issues (c. 1898-1900)
Occasional provisional issues or handstamps were used when official overprinted stamps were unavailable, often on British Indian stationery or stamps.
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Bussahir (Bushire) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Bussahir stamps varies significantly based on the specific British Indian base stamp, the type and clarity of the overprint, and condition. Rarer denominations, errors, and covers command higher prices. Forgeries of the overprints exist.
How to Identify Bussahir (Bushire) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Bussahir (Bushire) stamps:
- 1 Look for British Indian stamps (typically Queen Victoria issues) bearing an overprint, usually in Persian script, that translates to 'Bussahir' or 'Bushire'.
- 2 Examine the overprint carefully for authenticity; many forgeries exist. Compare with known genuine examples in philatelic catalogs.
- 3 Note the base stamp's denomination, color, and watermark, as these are crucial for proper identification and valuation.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Bussahir stamps?
Bussahir stamps refer to British Indian postage stamps that were overprinted for use in the British postal agency located in Bushire (Bussahir), a significant port city on the Persian Gulf coast of what is now Iran, during the late 19th century. These stamps facilitated mail services in the region under British influence.
Are Bussahir stamps valuable?
Yes, Bussahir stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare denominations, specific overprint varieties, or stamps on original covers. Their value is influenced by the condition of the stamp and overprint, the rarity of the base British Indian stamp, and the authenticity of the overprint. Prices can range from tens to thousands of dollars for rare examples.
How can I identify Bussahir stamps?
To identify Bussahir stamps, look for British Indian stamps, predominantly from the Queen Victoria era, that bear an overprint, typically in Persian script, indicating 'Bussahir' or 'Bushire'. It's crucial to verify the authenticity of the overprint against philatelic catalogs. For precise identification, consider using a stamp identifier app that can help analyze the stamp and its markings.
Which catalogs list Bussahir stamps?
Bussahir stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on the various issues, overprint types, and estimated values, which are essential resources for collectors.
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