Travancore-Cochin Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Travancore-Cochin Stamps
Travancore-Cochin was a state in the southwestern region of India, situated on the Malabar Coast of the Arabian Sea. This entity existed briefly following Indian independence, formed by the merger of the princely states of Travancore and Cochin in 1949, before its eventual integration into the larger state of Kerala. Stamps issued during this period primarily featured English alongside Malayalam, the dominant local language. The postal history of this region reflects the transition from the separate administrations of the princely states to a unified Indian postal system following the end of the British Raj.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- South Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1949 – 1950
- Languages:
- English, Malayalam
- Currency:
- INR
- Parent issuer:
- India
Stamp Catalogs
Travancore-Cochin stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Travancore-Cochin Stamp Series
Definitives of India Overprinted (1949-1950)
Stamps of India overprinted 'TRAVANCORE-COCHIN' or 'T.C.' were the primary issues, reflecting the transitional period.
Service Stamps Overprinted (1949-1950)
Official stamps of India overprinted for use by government departments in Travancore-Cochin.
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Travancore-Cochin Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common issues are readily available and inexpensive. Rarer varieties include specific overprint errors, plate flaws, or stamps with significant postal history. Mint never hinged condition commands higher prices.
How to Identify Travancore-Cochin Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Travancore-Cochin stamps:
- 1 Look for 'TRAVANCORE-COCHIN' or 'T.C.' overprints on stamps originally issued by India.
- 2 Stamps will typically feature designs common to early independent India, such as the Ashoka Lion Capital or various Indian landscapes and figures.
- 3 issuer:travancore-cochin.identification.tips.2
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Travancore-Cochin stamps?
Travancore-Cochin stamps were issued by the short-lived Indian state of Travancore-Cochin, formed in 1949 from the merger of the princely states of Travancore and Cochin. These stamps were primarily Indian issues overprinted with 'TRAVANCORE-COCHIN' or 'T.C.' for local postal use before the full integration into the Indian postal system.
Are Travancore-Cochin stamps valuable?
Most common Travancore-Cochin stamps are not highly valuable, typically ranging from $0.50 to $5. However, certain varieties, such as specific overprint errors, rare cancellations, or stamps in pristine condition, can fetch higher prices, sometimes reaching $20 to over $200.
How can I identify Travancore-Cochin stamps?
You can identify Travancore-Cochin stamps by looking for the overprints 'TRAVANCORE-COCHIN' or 'T.C.' on stamps that are clearly Indian in design. The period of issue is very narrow (1949-1950). For precise identification and catalog numbers, use a reliable stamp catalog or a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list Travancore-Cochin stamps?
Travancore-Cochin stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. They are typically found under India or a specific section for Indian States/Provinces.
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