Century Treasures
Pre-Decimal Lion Capital Service

Treasure detail

Pre-Decimal Lion Capital Service

Under Review

Description: This sharply engraved violet-blue official service stamp from India centers on the iconic Lion Capital of Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath. The central illustration showcases the three visible standing lions perched upon a highly detailed circular abacus featuring a relief of the sacred Ashoka Chakra wheel. Highly decorative vertical frame borders filled with traditional stylized floral pillars enclose the focal monument, situated beneath clean horizontal text panels designating state authority via "SERVICE" and "POSTAGE" headings. The lowest corners display the "4 As" face value in western numbers and traditional abbreviation opposite its corresponding Hindi expression in Devanagari script, framing the sovereign country name "INDIA" running flush along the bottom margin. A dark, sweeping circular postal handstamp cancellation deeply scores the upper left quadrant of the design to confirm its completed administrative transit.

Circa: 1950-1951

Condition: Used - Hinged

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