Tiflis Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Tiflis (Local Post) Stamps
Tiflis, historically known as Tbilisi, is located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia, currently the capital of modern Georgia. During the late Imperial Russian period, when it was a significant administrative center, its postal issues reflected the broader Russian Empire's system, often featuring Cyrillic script. The region experienced significant political upheaval in the early 20th century, leading to brief periods of independent postal administration before its incorporation into the Soviet Union. Stamps from this era often reflect the transition between Imperial, short-lived independent, and subsequent Soviet administrative control.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Caucasus
- Issuing period:
- 1857 – 1857
- Languages:
- Russian, Georgian
- Currency:
- RUB
- Parent issuer:
- Russian Empire
Stamp Catalogs
Tiflis (Local Post) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Tiflis (Local Post) Stamp Series
Tiflis Unique Local Post (1857)
The single, iconic issue of the Tiflis local post, featuring the Tiflis coat of arms (a horseman with a shield and spear) and Cyrillic inscription. These stamps are among the great rarities of philately.
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Tiflis (Local Post) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The Tiflis stamp of 1857 is one of the world's most famous and valuable philatelic rarities. Only a handful of examples are known to exist, making them exceptionally sought after by advanced collectors. Prices vary significantly based on condition and provenance.
How to Identify Tiflis (Local Post) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Tiflis (Local Post) stamps:
- 1 Look for the distinctive design featuring the Tiflis coat of arms: a horseman with a shield and spear.
- 2 The inscription is in Cyrillic, typically 'Тифлисская Городская Почта' (Tiflis City Post) and the denomination.
- 3 These stamps are imperforate and printed in blue on white paper. Authenticity is paramount due to their extreme rarity and value.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tiflis stamps?
Tiflis stamps refer to a single, extremely rare local post issue from the city of Tiflis (now Tbilisi, Georgia) in 1857. These stamps were issued for local mail delivery within the city during the period when Tiflis was a significant administrative center of the Russian Empire.
Are Tiflis stamps valuable?
Yes, Tiflis stamps are among the most valuable and rare stamps in the world. Only a very small number of genuine examples are known to exist, making them highly prized by philatelists. Their value can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of Euros, depending on condition and authenticity.
How can I identify Tiflis stamps?
Tiflis stamps are identified by their unique design featuring the Tiflis coat of arms (a horseman with a shield and spear) and Cyrillic inscriptions. They are imperforate and printed in blue. Due to their extreme rarity and value, expert authentication is crucial. You can also use a stamp identifier app to learn more about similar rare issues, but for Tiflis, professional verification is essential.
Which catalogs list Tiflis stamps?
Tiflis stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, usually under the Russian Empire or Georgia sections, often with a specific designation for local posts. These catalogs provide detailed information and valuations for this iconic rarity.
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