Tyukov Vladimir. History of Russian Empire Postmarks 1782-1917

Rossica., 2009. — 129 p.The history of Russian postmarks began from the mid-1760's when they appeared in St. Petersburg. From 1782 postmarks were officially introduced in all Russian post offices, so as to mark letters as a proof that postage rates had been collected. After 1830 dated postmarks began to be used. With the introduction of postage stamps to Russia came the need to cancel them. The shapes and designs of postmarks changed with the development of postal service. Specific designs of postmarks were used for different types of post offices.