Russia Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Russia Stamps
Russia, spanning Eastern Europe and Northern Asia, possesses a vast geographical expanse reflected in its extensive postal history, which transitioned from the Tsarist Empire through the Soviet Union to the modern Russian Federation. Its philatelic record documents significant political shifts, including participation in the Universal Postal Union (UPU) and the complex postal administration of the vast Soviet territory. Stamps predominantly feature the Cyrillic script, although earlier issues often included French or German alongside Russian. The administrative and ideological changes throughout the 20th century resulted in distinct and historically significant series reflecting national achievements and political ideologies.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Eastern Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1857 – present
- Languages:
- Russian, French, German
- Currency:
- RUB
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Stamp Catalogs
Russia stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Russia Stamp Series
First Issues of the Russian Empire (1857-1880s)
The iconic 'Perforated 10' and subsequent issues, featuring the imperial eagle, marking the beginning of Russian philately.
Soviet Union Definitive and Commemorative Issues (1923-1991)
A vast array of stamps depicting Soviet achievements, leaders, propaganda, and cultural events, reflecting the USSR's history.
Russian Federation Post-Soviet Issues (1992-Present)
Modern issues reflecting the new Russian state, often featuring cultural heritage, nature, and contemporary events.
Russia Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Russian stamps, especially post-Soviet issues, are generally inexpensive. Early Imperial issues, rare Soviet errors, and certain high-value commemoratives can fetch significant prices. Condition is paramount for value.
How to Identify Russia Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Russia stamps:
- 1 Look for Cyrillic script, which is almost universally present on Russian stamps.
- 2 Identify the imperial eagle for Tsarist issues, hammer and sickle for Soviet issues, and the double-headed eagle for modern Russian Federation stamps.
- 3 Check watermarks and perforations, especially for early issues, as these are crucial for identification and valuation.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Russia stamps?
Russia stamps refer to postage stamps issued by the various postal administrations that have governed the territory of Russia, including the Russian Empire (Tsarist Russia), the Soviet Union (USSR), and the modern Russian Federation. They document a rich history spanning from 1857 to the present day.
Are Russia stamps valuable?
The value of Russia stamps varies widely. Many common Soviet-era and modern Russian Federation stamps are readily available and inexpensive. However, early Imperial issues, rare varieties, errors, and certain high-value commemoratives from all periods can be quite valuable, sometimes fetching thousands or even tens of thousands of euros.
How can I identify Russia stamps?
To identify Russia stamps, look for the distinctive Cyrillic script. Early issues often feature the imperial eagle, while Soviet stamps display symbols like the hammer and sickle. Modern stamps use the double-headed eagle. For precise identification, including details like watermarks, perforations, and specific printings, use a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app like the StampIdentifier iPhone app.
Which catalogs list Russia stamps?
Russia stamps are extensively listed in all major international stamp catalogs. Collectors can find comprehensive listings in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, Michel Katalog (especially strong for European issues), and the Stanley Gibbons Catalogue. Specialized Russian catalogs also exist for more in-depth information.
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