Plains of Dura Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Plains of Dura Stamps
The Plains of Dura, a region historically associated with Mesopotamia, are situated in modern-day Iraq, placing them within Western Asia. Postal history in this area is deeply intertwined with the administration of various empires, notably the Ottoman Empire, followed by the British Mandate for Mesopotamia. Stamps issued for this territory predominantly feature Arabic script, often alongside Latin characters reflecting international postal standards. The region's postal infrastructure underwent significant reorganization following the establishment of the modern Kingdom of Iraq.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Western Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- Arabic, Ottoman Turkish
- Currency:
- Qirsh
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Stamp Catalogs
Plains of Dura stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Plains of Dura Stamp Series
Ottoman Empire Issues for Mesopotamia (c. 1860s-1910s)
Stamps of the Ottoman Empire used in the Mesopotamian region, often identifiable by specific cancellations or overprints.
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Plains of Dura Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Stamps specifically used in the Plains of Dura region are typically Ottoman Empire issues. Their value depends heavily on condition, specific issue, and especially the presence and clarity of local cancellations or overprints that confirm usage in the area. Early Ottoman issues can be quite valuable, particularly those with rare postmarks.
How to Identify Plains of Dura Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Plains of Dura stamps:
- 1 Look for Ottoman Empire stamps, often featuring tughra (sultan's monogram) or calligraphic designs.
- 2 Examine cancellations for place names in Arabic or Ottoman Turkish that correspond to locations within the Plains of Dura.
- 3 Be aware of potential overprints or surcharges that might indicate specific local usage or provisional issues.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Plains of Dura stamps?
Plains of Dura stamps refer to postal issues used within the historical region of the Plains of Dura, located in modern-day Iraq. These are primarily stamps of the Ottoman Empire, which administered the area during the period of their postal activity, sometimes identifiable by specific local cancellations or overprints.
Are Plains of Dura stamps valuable?
The value of stamps used in the Plains of Dura varies significantly. Common Ottoman Empire issues used in the region might be worth a few dollars, while rare early issues, specific provisional stamps, or those with clear and desirable local cancellations can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Condition plays a crucial role in determining value.
How can I identify Plains of Dura stamps?
To identify stamps used in the Plains of Dura, look for stamps issued by the Ottoman Empire from the mid-19th to early 20th century. Key identifiers include the design (often featuring the Sultan's tughra), the language (Ottoman Turkish and Arabic), and most importantly, cancellations that indicate usage in cities or towns within the historical Plains of Dura region. A stamp identifier app can help you quickly recognize the base stamp issue, after which you can research specific cancellations.
Which catalogs list Plains of Dura stamps?
Stamps used in the Plains of Dura, being primarily Ottoman Empire issues, are listed in major stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons under the listings for the Ottoman Empire or Turkey. Specialized catalogs for Ottoman Empire postal history may also provide more detailed information on specific cancellations and local usages relevant to the Plains of Dura.
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