Mahatma Gandhi Memorial — 10 Rupees

The crown jewel of the Gandhi Memorial series — a 10-rupee denomination that was rarely used for actual postage (it covered parcel rates) and thus survives in used condition far less than mint. The rich purple-brown shade on cream wove paper and the large format make this one of the most visually striking early Indian stamps.

Forgeries exist; genuine examples with full original gum command premiums beyond the catalogue value. Every serious Indian collection should include at least one example.