Centenary of the Philatelic Society of India (Se-Tenant)

Philatelic Society of India

Technical Data

Stamp Set Centenary of the Philatelic Society of India Centenary Series
Date of Issue March 27, 1997
Denomination Rs. 4
Quantity 700000
Perforation comb 13 x 13½
Printer Calcutta Security Printers Ltd
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 1545-1546

Stamp Number IN 1608a

Yvert et Tellier IN 1314-1315

Stanley Gibbons IN 1709a

Themes

Philatelic Society of India

The centenary of the Philatelic Society of India (PSI) was commemorated with a special se-tenant stamp set, celebrating its long-standing contribution to Indian philately.

Commemorative Stamp Set

The se-tenant set features two distinct stamps, each reflecting significant milestones and elements associated with the Philatelic Society of India, marking its 100 years of service to the philatelic community.

Design Elements

  • First Stamp: Depicts the cover of the first issue of “The Philatelic Journal of India,” highlighting its historical significance as one of the oldest philatelic publications in Asia.
  • Second Stamp: Showcases the PSI logo along with symbolic elements representing the evolution of philately in India, such as a vintage postage stamp and a modern-day stamp. The design also includes the dates “1897-1997” to mark the centenary.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Philatelic Society of India, established in 1897, is among the ten oldest philatelic societies in the world and the oldest in Asia. Founded by a group of Englishmen in Calcutta, the society has played a crucial role in the development and promotion of philately in India. It has also been instrumental in preserving and documenting the rich postal history of the country.

Usage

This commemorative se-tenant set was issued to honor the centenary of the PSI, with each stamp being usable for postal services as well as serving as a collector’s item for philatelists. The stamps reflect the historical journey and continuing legacy of the PSI in promoting philatelic interests in India.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set

The issuance of this commemorative stamp set underscores the importance of philately in preserving and celebrating India’s postal history. It also pays tribute to the Philatelic Society of India’s contributions to nurturing the hobby of stamp collecting, fostering knowledge exchange, and organizing philatelic exhibitions over the century.

Example of the Stamp Design

  • Se-Tenant Format: The stamps are issued in a se-tenant format, where two distinct stamps are printed together as a pair. This design choice symbolizes the PSI’s role in bridging the past and the future of Indian philately.
  • Visual Elements: The first stamp features the classic cover design of the “Philatelic Journal of India,” while the second stamp captures the evolution of stamp designs over the 100 years, representing the continuity and growth of philatelic practices in India.

Significance

The centenary stamps serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Philatelic Society of India, celebrating its milestone achievement and ongoing influence in the world of philately.