Cover of First “Philatelic Journal of India”
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Centenary of the Philatelic Society of India |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | March 27, 1997 |
| Denomination | Rs. 2 |
| Quantity | 700,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 x 13½ |
| Printer | Calcutta Security Printers Ltd |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1546 Stamp Number IN 1608 Yvert et Tellier IN 1315 Stanley Gibbons IN 1710 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Magazines | Philately |
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp Set: The Philatelic Society of India
Design Elements:
- Emblem of The Philatelic Society of India: Central to the stamp, symbolizing the society’s longstanding history and legacy.
- Portrait of Mr. C. Steward Wilson: The Society’s first president, emphasizing his contributions and leadership.
- Historical Imagery: A depiction of early philatelic activities in India, including vintage stamps and the General Post Office (GPO) in Calcutta.
- Color Palette: Vintage tones like sepia and deep green, reflecting the historical period of the Society’s founding.
Cultural and Historical Significance:
- Pioneering Philately in India: As one of the oldest philatelic societies in the world and the oldest in Asia, the Society has been pivotal in promoting the hobby and study of stamps in India.
- British-Indian Collaboration: The Society’s foundation by Englishmen stationed in India and its first Indian member, Mr. C.K. Dutt, symbolizes the collaborative cultural exchange in the field of philately during the colonial era.
- Education and Preservation: The Society has played a critical role in educating collectors and preserving the philatelic heritage of India through its journal and exhibitions.
Usage:
- Centennial Commemoration: The stamp set can be used to commemorate the 100th anniversary of The Philatelic Society of India, particularly during the National Philatelic Exhibition, CENTIPEX-97.
- Collectibles: These stamps would be of high value to philatelists and historians, serving as a significant addition to collections focused on Indian philately.
- Educational Tools: The stamps can be utilized in educational contexts to teach about the history of philately in India and the Society’s role in it.
Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:
- Recognition of Legacy: This stamp set honors the Society’s century-long dedication to philately, acknowledging its impact on the hobby and its educational contributions.
- Cultural Preservation: By commemorating the Society, the stamp set helps preserve the cultural and historical significance of philately in India.
- Inspiration for Future Generations: The stamps serve as a source of inspiration for new philatelists, encouraging the continuation of this historical and cultural practice.
Example of the Stamp Design:
- Main Stamp: Features the emblem of The Philatelic Society of India, with an artistic rendering of the GPO in Calcutta in the background, symbolizing the Society’s roots.
- Supporting Stamps: Could include images of rare Indian stamps from the early 20th century, a portrait of Mr. C.K. Dutt as the first Indian member, and scenes from past philatelic exhibitions.
Significance:
- Historical Commemoration: Celebrates the rich history of The Philatelic Society of India, marking its centennial as a milestone in the field of philately.
- Promotion of Philately: Encourages the appreciation and study of philately, showcasing the Society’s role in fostering a deeper understanding of cultural and historical narratives through stamps.
- Cultural Legacy: Highlights the importance of preserving and celebrating India’s philatelic heritage, ensuring that the contributions of early philatelists and the Society itself are remembered.