Philatelic Exhibition: Travancore Anchel
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | INDIA - 89 world Philatelic Exhibition |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | January 20, 1986 |
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 1,500,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1205 Stamp Number IN 1262 Yvert et Tellier IN 1009C Stanley Gibbons IN 1360 |
| Themes | Philatelic Exhibitions | Philately | Stamps |
Travancore Anchel Stamp (2 Chuckrams Denomination)
The stamp is a reproduction of the Travancore Anchel Stamp of 2 Chuckrams denomination, reflecting the rich philatelic history of the former Indian State of Travancore.
Travancore’s Independent Postal System:
- Anchal System: Travancore had its own postal system known as the Anchal System, which included various modes of mail transport such as boat mail services and the Railway Anchel Service.
Introduction of Adhesive Stamps:
- First Issuance: The first adhesive Anchel Stamp was introduced on 16th October 1888.
- Denominations and Design: The stamps were issued in denominations of 1, 2, and 4 Chuckrams.
- 1 Chuckram = 3.57 Paise.
- The stamps were printed in ultramarine, red, and green on laid paper.
- Watermark: The paper bore a large sheet watermark featuring a conch shell, surrounded by “GOVERNMENT” in an arch and “OF TRAVANCORE” below in a straight line.
Historical Significance:
- Earliest Feudatory Stamps: These stamps are among the earliest feudatory stamps that remained in use until 1953, illustrating the continuity and legacy of Travancore’s postal history.
Sources and Acknowledgements:
- Text Based On: The publication “The Travancore Anchal” by Dr. N.S. Moos.
- Anchel Stamp Courtesy: Postmaster General, Kerala Circle.
This reproduction stamp commemorates the unique and independent postal heritage of Travancore, showcasing the distinctiveness of its early postal issues.