25th Anniversary of National Rail Museum
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | October 7, 1996 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 1,000,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1518 Stamp Number IN 1585 Yvert et Tellier IN 1301P Stanley Gibbons IN 1682 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Locomotives | Museums | Railways |
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp Set: 25th Anniversary of the National Rail Museum
Design Elements:
- Museum Landmark: The stamp features a prominent depiction of the National Rail Museum’s iconic exhibits, such as the historic “Fairy Queen” steam locomotive, one of the oldest functioning steam engines in the world.
- Railway Heritage: Additional elements include illustrations of classic locomotives, coaches, and the outdoor yard, showcasing the museum’s role in preserving India’s rich railway history.
- Historical Depictions: The stamp may also highlight the museum’s indoor gallery, with imagery reflecting historical documents, models, and artifacts that depict the growth and evolution of the Indian Railways.
Cultural and Historical Significance:
- Preserving Railway Heritage: The National Rail Museum was established to preserve and showcase the history and technological advancements of the Indian Railways, one of the oldest and largest railway networks in the world.
- Educational Resource: The museum serves as an invaluable resource for researchers, railway enthusiasts, and educational institutions, offering a comprehensive look into the history and development of the railways in India.
- Cultural Legacy: By maintaining the original colors and liveries of its exhibits, the museum captures the aesthetic and historical essence of various State and Company Railways, reflecting the diversity and cultural significance of India’s railway legacy.
Usage:
- Commemorative Purpose: The stamp set commemorates the 25th anniversary of the National Rail Museum, celebrating its role in preserving and promoting India’s railway heritage.
- Educational Promotion: It highlights the museum’s contribution as an educational tool, providing insights into the history and modernization of the Indian Railways for visitors and scholars alike.
- Tourist Attraction: The stamp also serves to promote the museum as a tourist destination, showcasing its unique and extensive collection of railway artifacts.
Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:
- Milestone Celebration: The release of this stamp set marks the silver jubilee of the National Rail Museum, recognizing 25 years of its dedication to preserving India’s railway heritage.
- Historical Documentation: The stamp set acts as a visual record of the museum’s key exhibits and the rich history of the Indian Railways, ensuring that this heritage is remembered and celebrated.
- Cultural Significance: By commemorating the museum, the stamp set underscores the importance of the Indian Railways in the country’s cultural and industrial development.
Example of the Stamp Design:
- Stamp 1: Features the “Fairy Queen” steam locomotive, prominently placed with a background of the museum’s landscape, symbolizing the pioneering spirit of the Indian Railways.
- Stamp 2: Illustrates the indoor gallery with depictions of historical documents, models, and artifacts, highlighting the museum’s role in education and preservation.
- Stamp 3: Showcases the open yard, with multiple gauges of tracks and historic locomotives like the “Garratt Locomotive” and the “Patiala State Monorail Train,” reflecting the technical diversity of the exhibits.
Significance:
The commemorative stamp set for the National Rail Museum’s 25th anniversary celebrates the institution’s vital role in preserving the history and legacy of the Indian Railways. By marking this milestone, the stamp set honors the museum’s contributions to education, tourism, and cultural heritage, ensuring that the story of India’s railways continues to inspire future generations.