The 1924 Eldev-Otchir Symbol Stamps – Mongolia’s First National Stamp Issue

The issuance of the Eldev-Otchir symbol stamps in August 1924 marked a monumental moment in Mongolian postal history. These were the first stamps issued by the newly established Mongolian People’s Republic, symbolizing the country’s shift towards independence and modernization. With intricate designs and fascinating varieties, this issue has become a treasure trove for philatelists.

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The Design and Symbolism

The stamp design features the Eldev-Otchir symbol, an emblem of national unity and identity. Designed by L. Schonauer and printed at the Lithographic State Printing Works in Moscow, the stamps were inscribed in black and offered in a range of denominations. The values increased in size as the denomination rose, with dimensions varying from 19×25 mm (1 cent) to 30×39 mm ($1).

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Details of the Series

Set A – Perforation 13½

1. 1c (Brown, flesh, and grey/bistre):
   • Catalogue Value: £18 (Mint), £19 (Used).
2. 2c (Brown, black, and rose/brownish):
   • Catalogue Value: £70 (Mint), £65 (Used).
3. 5c (Grey, drab, rose, and yellow):
   • Catalogue Value: £60 (Mint), £38 (Used).
   • Rare Variety: Perf 11½ – £600 (Mint), £250 (Used).
4. 10c (Blue, dull blue, and white/bluish):
   • Catalogue Value: £30 (Mint), £25 (Used).
5. 50c (Red and orange/salmon):
   • Catalogue Value: £60 (Mint), £38 (Used).
6. $1 (Bistre, rose, red, and white/yellow):
   • Catalogue Value: £85 (Mint), £65 (Used).

Set B – Perforation 10

1. 2c (Brown, black, and rose/brownish):
   • Catalogue Value: £16 (Mint), £8.75 (Used).
2. 5c (Grey, drab, rose, and yellow):
   • Catalogue Value: £70 (Mint), £55 (Used).
   • Rare Variety: Perf 11½ – £600 (Mint), £250 (Used).
3. 10c (Blue, dull blue, and white/bluish):
   • Catalogue Value: £30 (Mint), £25 (Used).
4. 50c (Grey, blue, and white/blue):
   • Catalogue Value: £42 (Mint), £28 (Used).
5. $1 (Bistre, rose, red, and white/yellow):
   • Catalogue Value: £800 (Mint), £300 (Used).

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Interesting Varieties and Errors

• Overprints: Some values (5c to $1) were overprinted with a circular “SANGI” in black or red, indicating revenue stamps.
• Printing Errors: Double or triple black printing, imperforates, misplaced or partial perforations, and other printer’s waste variations are noted.
• Rare Horizontal Perforations: All values except the 5c exist additionally perforated across the center, mostly horizontally.
  • Prices: 1c – £7 (Mint), £43 (Used); others have higher values, especially unused examples.

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Usage and Legacy

These stamps were officially exported in this state but were declared invalid for postage in Mongolia. Instead, they were primarily utilized for decorative or revenue purposes. Covers featuring these stamps are exceedingly rare.