Nepal Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Nepal Stamps
Nepal is a landlocked nation situated in South Asia, nestled within the Himalayan mountain range bordering India and China. Its postal history, largely independent, began with the issuance of its own stamps in the mid-19th century, predating its full membership in the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1954. Stamps primarily feature Nepali script (Devanagari) alongside English, reflecting the country's official languages. The nation's philatelic record spans the Rana regime and the subsequent transition to a constitutional monarchy and later a federal republic, marking significant shifts in the iconography and themes presented on its issues.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- South Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1881 – present
- Languages:
- Nepali, English
- Currency:
- NPR
- issuer:nepal.overview.parentIssuer:
- issuer:nepal.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Nepal stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Nepal Stamp Series
Early Classic Issues (Bir Bikram) (1881-1930s)
Nepal's first stamps, featuring the portrait of King Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah, printed locally and often crudely, highly sought after by classic collectors.
Maharaja Tribhuvan Issues (1930s-1950s)
Stamps issued during the reign of King Tribhuvan Bir Bikram Shah, showing improved printing quality and a wider range of designs.
Post-UPU Accession Issues (1954-present)
Modern issues reflecting Nepal's international integration, featuring diverse themes like culture, nature, history, and national development.
Nepal Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early classic issues, especially those with rare cancellations or printing varieties, can fetch significant prices. Later commemorative issues are generally affordable, but complete sets or specific errors can hold higher value. Condition is paramount for older stamps.
How to Identify Nepal Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Nepal stamps:
- 1 Look for Nepali script (Devanagari) alongside English text, which is a consistent feature on most Nepali stamps.
- 2 Early issues (pre-1950s) often have a distinctive, somewhat crude printing style and feature portraits of monarchs.
- 3 Post-1954 stamps typically include 'NEPAL' in Latin script and often depict cultural, natural, or historical themes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Nepal stamps?
Nepal stamps are postage stamps issued by the postal authority of Nepal, a landlocked nation in South Asia. Their philatelic history dates back to 1881, predating its full membership in the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1954. They primarily feature Nepali script (Devanagari) alongside English.
Are Nepal stamps valuable?
The value of Nepal stamps varies widely. Early classic issues from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially those with good condition, rare varieties, or specific cancellations, can be quite valuable, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. More modern commemorative issues are generally affordable, typically ranging from $0.50 to $10, though complete sets or specific errors can command higher prices.
How can I identify Nepal stamps?
You can identify Nepal stamps by looking for the country name 'NEPAL' in both Nepali (Devanagari script) and often in English. Early issues frequently feature portraits of Nepali monarchs. For precise identification and cataloging, using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized philatelic catalogs like Scott, Michel, or Stanley Gibbons is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Nepal stamps?
Nepal stamps are comprehensively listed in major international philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Catalogue, and the Stanley Gibbons Catalogue. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
Not sure if your stamp is from Nepal?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store