Iran Stamps
Iran, situated in Western Asia, possesses a rich postal history dating back to the Qajar dynasty, predating its formal entry into the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1875. The country, formerly known as Persia, has experienced significant political transitions, including the Pahlavi era and the Islamic Republic, which are clearly reflected in its stamp issues.
- Issued stamps
- 1868–present
- Region
- Middle East, Western Asia
- Currency
- IRR
- Languages
- Persian, Farsi
- Issuer type
- Modern postal administration
About Iran stamps
Stamps predominantly feature the Persian (Farsi) script, often alongside Latin script for international recognition. The postal system has navigated periods of both internal development and external influence, maintaining a continuous issuance tradition despite major regime changes.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- POSTES PERSANES
How to identify Iran stamps
- Look for Persian (Farsi) script, often accompanied by Latin script for international recognition.
- Identify the ruling dynasty (Qajar, Pahlavi, Islamic Republic) by the portraits of rulers or thematic elements.
- Check for the country name 'Iran' or 'Persia' (in Latin script) and the denomination.
Popular series
-
Qajar Dynasty Issues
1868-1925
Early issues featuring portraits of Qajar shahs, often with intricate designs and Persian inscriptions.
-
Pahlavi Dynasty Issues
1925-1979
Stamps depicting Reza Shah and Mohammad Reza Shah, often showcasing modernization, national heritage, and oil industry themes.
-
Islamic Republic Issues
1979-Present
Post-revolution stamps reflecting Islamic and revolutionary themes, national heroes, and cultural events.
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
- $0.50–$5
- Scarce stamps
- $50–$5,000+
Early Qajar issues, particularly those in good condition or with rare cancellations, can be quite valuable. Later Pahlavi and Islamic Republic issues are generally more affordable, though certain commemorative sets or errors can command higher prices. Condition is crucial for value.
Catalogs. Iran 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 Iran stamps
Iran stamps are postage stamps issued by the postal authorities of Iran (formerly Persia) since 1868. They reflect the country's rich history, cultural heritage, and political transitions, featuring Persian script and often Latin script.
The value of Iran stamps varies significantly. Early Qajar dynasty issues, especially those in fine condition or with specific varieties, can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to thousands of dollars. Later Pahlavi and Islamic Republic stamps are generally more common and affordable, though certain commemorative sets, errors, or rare cancellations can fetch higher prices. Condition plays a crucial role in determining value.
To identify Iran stamps, look for the distinctive Persian (Farsi) script, often alongside Latin script for the country name ('Iran' or 'Persia') and denominations. The imagery often depicts historical figures, national landmarks, cultural events, or religious themes. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Iran stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issue dates, designs, denominations, and estimated values for collectors.
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