Lion Stamps of Persia

The first stamps of Persia (Former name of Iran), issued between 1868-1875 are known as the “Lion and Sun” series. These stamps depict a lion holding a sword with a sun rising behind it, a symbol of Persian royalty and strength. Printed on thin, unperforated paper, the stamps had to be hand-cut, which led to unique variations in shape and size.

These early Persian stamps are highly valuable, especially in mint condition. They were produced in limited quantities, and many have been lost or damaged over time, increasing their rarity. Several factors influence their value, including condition, rarity, and printing variations. Stamps with printing errors, such as color shifts or misplaced designs, tend to be particularly prized by collectors.