Cochin Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Cochin (Princely State) Stamps
Cochin, a former princely state located on the Malabar Coast in southwestern India, was a significant maritime and trading center in South Asia. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the British Raj, operating under the British Indian postal system for much of its independent existence before acceding to India in 1949. Stamps issued by the State of Cochin, primarily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, predominantly feature English alongside Malayalam, reflecting the local language and the administrative influence of the British. The state's postal administration was eventually fully integrated into the Indian postal network following the political reorganization of the region.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- South Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1892 – 1949
- Languages:
- English, Malayalam
- Currency:
- INR
- Parent issuer:
- British India
Stamp Catalogs
Cochin (Princely State) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Cochin (Princely State) Stamp Series
First Definitive Series (1892-1898)
The initial set of stamps featuring the portrait of Queen Victoria, overprinted with 'COCHIN STATE'.
King Edward VII Issues (1902-1910)
Stamps depicting King Edward VII, often with 'COCHIN STATE' overprints or inscribed.
King George V Issues (1911-1936)
Definitive stamps featuring King George V, reflecting the British monarch, with 'COCHIN STATE' inscriptions.
Cochin (Princely State) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Cochin stamps are relatively inexpensive, especially used copies. However, early issues, specific overprints, errors, and high-denomination unused stamps can fetch significant prices. Condition is paramount, as is the clarity of overprints.
How to Identify Cochin (Princely State) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Cochin (Princely State) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'COCHIN STATE' or 'COCHIN' inscription, often alongside the portrait of British monarchs (Victoria, Edward VII, George V, George VI).
- 2 Stamps often feature bilingual text in English and Malayalam.
- 3 Early issues may be overprinted on British Indian stamps.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cochin stamps?
Cochin stamps are postage stamps issued by the former princely state of Cochin, located in southwestern India, between 1892 and 1949. They reflect the state's postal autonomy under British suzerainty before its integration into independent India.
Are Cochin stamps valuable?
The value of Cochin stamps varies widely. While many common issues are affordable, certain early definitive sets, specific overprints, errors, and high-denomination stamps, especially in unused or fine condition, can be quite valuable, ranging from hundreds to several thousands of dollars.
How can I identify Cochin stamps?
Cochin stamps can be identified by the prominent 'COCHIN STATE' or 'COCHIN' inscription, often accompanied by portraits of British monarchs. Many also feature text in both English and Malayalam. For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list Cochin stamps?
Cochin stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. Specialized catalogs for Indian states or British Commonwealth philately may also provide more detailed listings and information.
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