Petersburg Local Post Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Petersburg (Local Issues) Stamps
Petersburg, historically known as Saint Petersburg, is a major city located in Northwestern Russia, situated on the Baltic Sea. While not an independent country, its postal history is deeply intertwined with the Russian Empire and the subsequent Soviet Union, serving as a crucial hub for international mail routes across Northern Europe. Stamps issued from this region, particularly during periods of local administration or special events, would predominantly feature the Russian language and Cyrillic script. The city's administrative status has shifted significantly over time, reflecting major political transitions within Russia, impacting the issuing authority for postal materials.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Eastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- Russian
- Currency:
- RUB
- Parent issuer:
- Russian Empire
Stamp Catalogs
Petersburg (Local Issues) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Petersburg (Local Issues) Stamp Series
Local Post Stamps (1861)
The singular issue of local post stamps for Petersburg, intended for use within the city and its immediate surroundings, predating the full integration of a unified imperial postal system.
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Petersburg (Local Issues) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The 1861 Petersburg local post stamps are generally considered scarce to rare, especially in fine condition or on cover. Their value is highly dependent on condition, cancellations, and specific varieties (e.g., paper, printing errors). Forgeries are known, so expert authentication is crucial.
How to Identify Petersburg (Local Issues) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Petersburg (Local Issues) stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'С. ПЕТЕРБУРГСКАЯ ГОРОДСКАЯ ПОЧТА' (St. Petersburg City Post) in Cyrillic.
- 2 The stamps are imperforate and typically feature a central design with the imperial double-headed eagle or a simplified city emblem.
- 3 Pay attention to the paper type and printing method, as variations exist and can affect value. Forgeries are common, so examine details carefully.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Petersburg stamps?
Petersburg stamps refer to a very specific and rare local post issue from 1861, used within the city of Saint Petersburg (then part of the Russian Empire) before the full establishment of a unified imperial postal system. These were not national issues but rather served a local postal need.
Are Petersburg stamps valuable?
Yes, Petersburg local post stamps are generally considered valuable due to their rarity and historical significance. Common examples can fetch hundreds of euros, while rare varieties or stamps on original covers can command thousands. Their value is highly dependent on condition and authenticity.
How can I identify Petersburg stamps?
Petersburg stamps are identifiable by their Cyrillic inscription 'С. ПЕТЕРБУРГСКАЯ ГОРОДСКАЯ ПОЧТА' (St. Petersburg City Post) and their imperforate nature. They typically feature the imperial double-headed eagle or a city emblem. Due to their rarity and the presence of forgeries, using a stamp identifier app or consulting with a philatelic expert is highly recommended for accurate identification and authentication.
Which catalogs list Petersburg stamps?
Petersburg local post stamps are listed in major international catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, usually within the sections for Russian Empire local posts or zemstvo issues. Specialized Russian philatelic catalogs also provide detailed listings.
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