Dhar Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Dhar Princely State Stamps
Dhar was a princely state located in the Malwa region of Central India, falling under the political umbrella of the British Raj. Its postal history is characterized by the issuance of its own provisional stamps, often hand-stamped or locally produced, primarily serving internal communication needs before full integration into the British Indian postal system. The script predominantly featured on these issues would have been Devanagari, reflecting the local administrative language of the region. The state's postal autonomy ceased upon its accession to the Indian Union following independence in 1947.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- South Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1897 – 1898
- Languages:
- Devanagari, English
- Currency:
- INR
- Parent issuer:
- British India
Stamp Catalogs
Dhar Princely State stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Dhar Princely State Stamp Series
Provisional Handstamps (1897-1898)
The primary issues of Dhar, consisting of hand-stamped designs on various papers, often crude and locally produced, primarily for internal use.
Official Stamps (1897-1898)
Stamps specifically designated for official use, often identifiable by overprints or distinct designs, though still provisional in nature.
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Dhar Princely State Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Dhar stamps are generally scarce due to their provisional nature and limited usage. Common examples of the handstamped issues can fetch moderate prices, while rare varieties, errors, or covers can command significant sums. Condition is paramount for these early, often crudely produced issues.
How to Identify Dhar Princely State Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Dhar Princely State stamps:
- 1 Look for hand-stamped designs, often in black or blue ink, on various paper types.
- 2 The script predominantly featured is Devanagari, often with the name 'Dhar' or 'Dhar State'.
- 3 Many issues are imperforate or roughly perforated, reflecting their local production.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Dhar stamps?
Dhar stamps are provisional postal issues from the former Princely State of Dhar, located in the Malwa region of Central India. These stamps were primarily hand-stamped and locally produced for internal postal communication between 1897 and 1898, before the state fully integrated into the British Indian postal system.
Are Dhar stamps valuable?
Yes, Dhar stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare varieties, errors, or those on original covers. Due to their provisional nature, limited production, and short period of use, many Dhar issues are scarce. Common examples might range from $10-$50, while rare items can easily exceed $1000, depending on condition and specific issue.
How can I identify Dhar stamps?
Dhar stamps are typically identified by their hand-stamped designs, often in Devanagari script, and sometimes with the name 'Dhar' in English. They are frequently imperforate or crudely perforated. For precise identification and authentication, using a specialized stamp identifier app or consulting a philatelic expert is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Dhar stamps?
Dhar stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, values, and historical context for collectors.
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