Travancore Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Travancore Stamps
Travancore was a princely state located in the southwestern part of the Indian subcontinent, within the modern state of Kerala, India. Although under British paramountcy during the period of its distinct postal issues, Travancore maintained internal autonomy and issued its own adhesive postage stamps beginning in 1890. The inscriptions on these stamps primarily feature the local language, Malayalam, alongside English, reflecting the administrative duality of the era. The state's independent postal system ceased operations following the integration of the princely states into the Dominion of India in 1949.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Indian Subcontinent
- Issuing period:
- 1888 – 1946
- Languages:
- Malayalam, English
- Currency:
- INR
- Parent issuer:
- British India
Stamp Catalogs
Travancore stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Travancore Stamp Series
First Official Issue (1888-1890)
The very first stamps of Travancore, featuring the Conch Shell emblem and inscriptions in Malayalam.
King George V Issues (1911-1937)
Stamps depicting King George V, often with dual inscriptions in Malayalam and English, reflecting the British paramountcy.
Maharaja Chithira Thirunal Issues (1939-1946)
Later issues featuring the portrait of Maharaja Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, the last ruling Maharaja.
Travancore Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available and inexpensive. Early issues, high values, and stamps in fine condition, especially unused or with rare cancellations, can command significant prices. Errors and varieties are also highly sought after.
How to Identify Travancore Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Travancore stamps:
- 1 Look for inscriptions primarily in Malayalam script, often accompanied by English.
- 2 Many early issues feature the Conch Shell (Shankha) emblem, a symbol of the Travancore royal family.
- 3 Later issues often depict the ruling Maharaja or British monarchs.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Travancore stamps?
Travancore stamps are postage stamps issued by the princely state of Travancore, located in present-day Kerala, India, between 1888 and 1946. These stamps were used for internal postal services within the state, reflecting its semi-autonomous status under British paramountcy.
Are Travancore stamps valuable?
The value of Travancore stamps varies widely. Common issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from $0.50 to $10. However, early issues, higher denominations, stamps in superb condition, unused examples, and rare varieties or errors can be quite valuable, fetching prices from $50 to over $500.
How can I identify Travancore stamps?
Travancore stamps can be identified by their unique designs, which often include the Conch Shell emblem or portraits of the ruling Maharaja or British monarchs. Key identifiers are the inscriptions, predominantly in Malayalam script, often alongside English. For precise identification, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list Travancore stamps?
Travancore stamps are comprehensively listed in major international philatelic catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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