Stamps

Postage stamps are issued by postal administrations to prepay postage for mail services. Stamp collecting, also known as philately, is one of the most popular hobbies in the world. Collectors study stamps based on themes, countries, historical periods, printing varieties, perforations and postal cancellations. Indian stamps include issues from the British India period as well as stamps issued after independence by India Post. Stamp collections may include mint stamps, used stamps, miniature sheets, stamp booklets and other philatelic material.