Sirmoor Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Sirmoor (Nahan) Stamps
Sirmoor, also known as Nahan, was a princely state located in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, within the political sphere of British India. Its postal history is characterized by the issuance of its own provisional stamps, primarily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, before integration into the broader British Indian postal system. These issues typically featured local administrative markings or rudimentary designs, often reflecting the administrative language of the region, which was predominantly Hindi or Urdu alongside English. The state's postal autonomy ceased upon India's independence in 1947, after which its postal services were fully absorbed by the Indian postal administration.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- South Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1879 – 1899
- Languages:
- Hindi, Urdu, English
- Currency:
- INR
- Parent issuer:
- British India
Stamp Catalogs
Sirmoor (Nahan) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Sirmoor (Nahan) Stamp Series
Provisional Issues (1879-1885)
Early provisional issues, often handstamped or crudely printed, featuring local administrative markings in Hindi or Urdu.
Official Stamps (1885-1899)
Stamps specifically for official use, often overprinted 'SERVICE' or similar, reflecting the state's administrative needs.
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Sirmoor (Nahan) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific issue (especially early provisionals), and cancellations. Rarer varieties and errors command higher prices.
How to Identify Sirmoor (Nahan) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Sirmoor (Nahan) stamps:
- 1 Look for inscriptions in Hindi (Devanagari script) or Urdu (Perso-Arabic script) alongside English.
- 2 Many early issues are handstamped or crudely printed, often on various papers.
- 3 Identify the 'Nahan' or 'Sirmoor' inscription, sometimes abbreviated.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sirmoor stamps?
Sirmoor stamps were issued by the princely state of Sirmoor (also known as Nahan) in British India, primarily between 1879 and 1899. These were provisional issues for local postal services before the state's postal system was fully integrated into British India's.
Are Sirmoor stamps valuable?
Yes, some Sirmoor stamps can be quite valuable, especially early provisional issues, rare varieties, and those in fine condition with clear cancellations. Common issues might range from $5-$50, while rare examples can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
How can I identify Sirmoor stamps?
Sirmoor stamps can be identified by their inscriptions, often in Hindi or Urdu, and sometimes 'Nahan' or 'Sirmoor' in English. Many early issues are handstamped or have a distinct, somewhat crude appearance. For precise identification, use a stamp identifier app that can scan and match your stamps.
Which catalogs list Sirmoor stamps?
Sirmoor stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, typically found under 'Indian Native States' or 'Convention States'.
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