Indian Police Forces in Laos Stamps
Indian Police Forces in Laos represents a unique, non-territorial postal entity related to the International Control Commission (ICC) operations in Southeast Asia following the 1954 Geneva Accords. This specialized postal service, active primarily during the period of international peacekeeping efforts, was administered by Indian contingents tasked with monitoring the ceasefire in Laos.
- Issued stamps
- 1954–1962
- Region
- Asia, Southeast Asia
- Currency
- INR
- Languages
- English
- Issuer type
- Modern postal administration
- Part of
- India
History and background
Stamps issued under this designation primarily feature English, reflecting the international nature of the commission, and often bear denominations related to Indian postal rates or specific service fees. The existence of these issues is tied directly to India's role in the post-colonial political settlement of Indochina, rather than traditional territorial sovereignty.
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- ICC
How to identify them
- Look for 'Indian Police Forces' or 'ICC' markings, often in English.
- Denominations may reflect Indian postal rates or specific service fees.
- Check for overprints on existing Indian or Laotian stamps, though most are distinct issues.
Popular series
-
ICC Service Stamps
1954-1962
Stamps issued for the use of Indian contingents of the International Control Commission in Laos, often overprinted or specially prepared.
-
Official Mail Issues
1954-1962
Issues primarily for official correspondence, reflecting the administrative needs of the peacekeeping force.
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–$500+
Values vary significantly based on condition, specific issue, and whether they are used on cover. Stamps used on actual mail from Laos with relevant cancellations are highly sought after.
Catalogs. Indian Police Forces in Laos 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 Indian Police Forces in Laos stamps
Indian Police Forces in Laos stamps were special postal issues used by Indian contingents serving with the International Control Commission (ICC) in Laos from 1954 to 1962. These stamps facilitated mail services for the peacekeeping force, distinct from regular Laotian postal services.
The value of Indian Police Forces in Laos stamps can range from $5 for common issues to several hundred dollars for rare varieties, especially those on cover with clear cancellations. Their unique historical context and limited usage contribute to their collectibility.
To identify Indian Police Forces in Laos stamps, look for inscriptions indicating 'Indian Police Forces' or 'ICC' and denominations relevant to Indian postal rates. Many are distinct designs, while some might be overprints. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Indian Police Forces in Laos stamps are typically listed in major international catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, often under sections for India, Laos, or specialized issues related to international organizations.
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