Copper Pre-payment Ticket, 1744
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | India '80 International Stamp Exhibition |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | January 25, 1980 |
| Denomination | Rs. 1 |
| Quantity | 2,000,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 811 Stamp Number IN 854 Yvert et Tellier IN 608 Stanley Gibbons IN 957 |
| Themes | Coins | Philatelic Exhibitions |
During Warren Hastings’ administration in India (1774-1785), significant improvements were made to the postal system, laying the foundation for its modernization. One key development during this period was the introduction of the copper ticket in 1774.
The copper ticket served as a form of prepayment for postage within the realms of the East India Company. It was issued as a token to indicate that postage had been paid in advance for the transportation of private communications. This marked a departure from the previous practice and represented a step towards a more organized and regulated postal service.
Under the new system, a Postmaster-General was appointed to oversee the operations of the postal service. Additionally, postage charges were implemented for the first time, with the rate set at 2 Annas (equivalent to 1/8th of a Rupee) for every 100 miles (160 kilometers) of travel.
The introduction of the copper ticket and the establishment of a regular system of post were significant milestones in the development of the Indian postal system. These measures helped to streamline postal operations, improve accessibility to postal services, and pave the way for further advancements in the years to come.