India 1950-51 Service Stamps, Ashoka Lion Capital

India · 1950 · 3p, 6p, 9p, 1a, 2a, 3a, 4a, 6a, 8a, 12a, 1r, 2r, 5r, 10r

This definitive series of service stamps features the Ashoka Lion Capital, the national emblem of India. The stamps are overprinted with the word 'SERVICE' in black for use on official government mail. The set comprises fourteen denominations ranging from 3 pies to 10 rupees, printed on unwatermarked paper.

Issued shortly after India became a republic in 1950, this series replaced the earlier King George VI service stamps, marking a significant step in establishing the new nation's philatelic identity.