India Cochin postage stamps year 1871 – 1920 used lot

India Cochin postage stamps year 1871 – 1920 used lot Historical context Cochin was a princely state in southern India (modern Kerala) with its own postal system. It issued stamps roughly 1892–1933 as a feudatory state under British India. These stamps were mainly valid within the state, requiring additional British Indian postage for external mail. �� Key periods (relevant to 1871–1920) �� Before stamps (pre-1892) No adhesive postage stamps in 1871 Mail handled through local courier/postal systems of the Maharaja �� First issues (1892–1900) First stamps issued under Raja Vira Kerala Varma V Typical features: Denominations in puttan (puttans) Printed on white wove or laid paper Perforation ~12 Early designs are simple numerals or symbols rather than portraits �� These are the earliest collectible Cochin stamps �� Early 20th century issues (1900–1910) Expansion of denominations and printings Introduction of: Better paper and gum Increasing print quantities Still relatively primitive typographic designs �� Maharaja portrait issues (1911–1919) Major development: portrait of Maharaja Rama Varma XV Typical features: More refined engraved/typographed designs Denominations in pies/annas equivalents Perforation ~14 �� Official stamps (1913–1919) Overprinted “ON C G S” (Cochin Government Service) Used for official/state correspondence Multiple types and varieties exist �� Around 1920 Continued portrait issues Increasing varieties (perforations, overprints, shades) Some sets issued in 1919–1920 transitional period