uncommonpre-1900

Ottoman Empire Tughra Stamp, First Issue

Name: Ottoman Empire Tughra Stamp, First Issue
Brand: Ottoman Empire

Ottoman Empire · 1863 · 20 Para

This is the first postage stamp issued by the Ottoman Empire. The design features the Tughra of Sultan Abdülaziz, an intricate calligraphic monogram serving as his official signature and seal. The denomination is inscribed in Arabic script within a crescent below the Tughra.

Issued in 1863, this stamp marks the beginning of the Ottoman postal system, a key modernization effort during the Tanzimat reform period. These stamps were imperforate and printed on thin, colored paper.

Printing Method

Typography

Themes

tughra calligraphy first-issue coat-of-arms

Catalog Numbers

sg1

scott1

michel1

Image: · License:

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Estimated Values by Condition

Superb(S)

Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults

$150

Extremely Fine(XF)

Well centered, fresh colors

$100

Very Fine(VF)

Nicely centered, minor flaws

$60

Fine(F)

Average centering, acceptable

$30

Good(G)

Off-center or visible wear

$10

Prices are approximate market estimates for educational purposes. Actual values depend on specific factors including cancel type, margins, and provenance.