Turkey Katchak Contraband 2 Piastres Bisect
Turkey · 1884 · 1 Piastre
This bisected stamp features the Ottoman imperial emblem (tughra) surrounded by text, including 'POSTES OTTOMANES' and '2 PIASTRES'. The stamp is diagonally cut, indicating its use for half its original face value.
Issued for a special 'Katchak' (contraband) postal service in response to widespread infringement of the post office monopoly. These stamps were used to tax contraband letters at double rates, with half the fees going to informers.
Printing Method
Typography
Image: Turkish Postal autorities · License: Public domain
Estimated Values by Condition
Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults
Well centered, fresh colors
Nicely centered, minor flaws
Average centering, acceptable
Off-center or visible wear
Prices are approximate market estimates for educational purposes. Actual values depend on specific factors including cancel type, margins, and provenance.
