Indian Police Forces In Laos And Vietnam Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Indian Police Forces (Laos & Vietnam) Stamps
This unique philatelic entity represents postal material issued for use by Indian Police Forces contingents stationed in Southeast Asia, specifically Laos and Vietnam, during the mid-20th century. These issues fall under the broader context of post-colonial international peacekeeping or advisory roles undertaken by India in the Indochina region following the French withdrawal. Stamps are typically denominated in Indian currency and feature inscriptions in English, reflecting the official language of the Indian contingent. The existence of these issues marks a specific, temporary administrative period tied to international agreements rather than a sovereign postal territory.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1965 – 1968
- Languages:
- English, Hindi
- Currency:
- INR
- Parent issuer:
- India
Stamp Catalogs
Indian Police Forces (Laos & Vietnam) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Indian Police Forces (Laos & Vietnam) Stamp Series
Indian Police Forces Provisional Issues (1965-1968)
Stamps overprinted or surcharged for use by Indian Police contingents.
Indian Military Post Issues (related) (Various)
While not directly police, these issues share a similar context of Indian forces abroad.
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Indian Police Forces (Laos & Vietnam) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: These are highly specialized and rare issues, often found as covers or on document. Values depend heavily on condition, authenticity, and specific overprints/surcharges. Most are not listed in major catalogs, making valuation challenging and often based on specialist auctions or dealer knowledge.
How to Identify Indian Police Forces (Laos & Vietnam) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Indian Police Forces (Laos & Vietnam) stamps:
- 1 Look for overprints or surcharges on standard Indian stamps, typically indicating 'Indian Police Forces' or similar designations.
- 2 Denominations will be in Indian currency (Naye Paise or Paise, Rupees).
- 3 Contextual evidence such as postmarks from Laos or Vietnam, especially from specific military or police postal units, is crucial.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Indian Police Forces In Laos And Vietnam stamps?
These are specialized postal issues used by Indian Police Force contingents stationed in Laos and Vietnam between 1965 and 1968. They typically consist of regular Indian stamps overprinted or surcharged for official use by these forces, reflecting India's role in international peacekeeping or advisory missions in the region.
Are Indian Police Forces In Laos And Vietnam stamps valuable?
Yes, these stamps are generally considered rare and valuable due to their limited issuance, specific purpose, and short period of use. Common examples might fetch $5-$50, while rare varieties, especially on cover or with clear provenance, can command prices from $100 to over $500. Their value is often determined by specialist collectors and auction results rather than standard catalog listings.
How can I identify Indian Police Forces In Laos And Vietnam stamps?
Look for standard Indian postage stamps from the mid-1960s bearing specific overprints or surcharges indicating their use by 'Indian Police Forces' or similar. Denominations will be in Indian currency. Identifying these often requires specialized knowledge of Indian military and police postal history. For quick identification, you can use a stamp identifier app by scanning the stamp, which may help in cross-referencing with known issues.
Which catalogs list Indian Police Forces In Laos And Vietnam stamps?
These highly specialized issues are generally not listed in major international catalogs like Scott, Michel, or Stanley Gibbons, as they are considered provisional or semi-official. Information about them is typically found in specialized Indian philatelic literature, military postal history journals, or through expert dealers in Indian philately.
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