The Persian Courier

"Neither snow, nor rain, nor heat, nor dark of night shall stay the courier from his appointed rounds." -- Herodotus

The Iran Philatelic Study Circle (IPSC) is the only worldwide organization devoted to studying Iranian philately. The IPSC was formed in the United Kingdom in the early part of the twentieth century, reactivated in 1948, and reorganized along its present lines in 1966. IPSC members in the United States and Canada formed the American Chapter in 1982. The American Chapter is Affiliate No. 208 of the American Philatelic Society (APS) and subscribes to the APS Code of Ethics. The IPSC holds virtual meetings six times each year. In addition, in-person meetings at various shows.

The IPSC Bulletin. The IPSC issues a Bulletin 4-5 times a year with articles on Iranian philately written in English. Over time, the IPSC Bulletin has become the journal of record of Iranian philately.

The IPSC Catalogue. The IPSC is in the process of producing a comprehensive catalog of Iranian philately, including stamps, postal stationery, flights, rates, censor marks, cancellations, Indian postal use in Iran, and other related subjects. The Catalogue represents the collective knowledge of all members and is the most authoritative general reference available on this subject. Most pre-1942 sections have now been issued. Many more sections are in their final compilation stages. The IPSC maintains catalog representatives with both Stanley Gibbons in the United Kingdom and Scott in the United States.

Internet Resources. The IPSC maintains an expanding collection of philatelic resources on the Internet. Copies of the Bulletin, Catalogue, and other resources are located in a secured members-only section.

Repositories. Copies of the Bulletin and Catalogue and American Chapter Newsletters are also available to the public from the following two philatelic repositories in the United States:

Membership. To be considered for membership to IPSC, you must agree to the IPSC code of ethics and complete the Membership Application.

Dues. IPSC dues are assessed on a calendar-year basis and are:

  • $10.00 USD for membership.

  • $5.00 USD for members of the Iran Chapter.