Portuguese India 1962 Assistencia Publica (Public Assistance) 7np Surcharge overprint Stamps

These stamps are part of a rare final issue from the era of Indian postage under Portuguese rule. They feature the original "Assistencia Publica" (Public Assistance) design from around 1958, which depicts a mother and children, symbolizing social welfare.

Overprint Details: The stamps carry a heavy black horizontal bar over the original Portuguese denominations and are overprinted with "7 np" (7 new paise). This surcharge transitioned the stamps into the Indian currency system following the annexation of Goa in late 1961.

Historical Significance: These are among the last stamps used in the territory during the transition from Portuguese colonial administration to the Indian Republic.

Collectible Condition: In this format (a block of four), they are often found in Mint Unhinged (MNH) or Mint Unused condition, making them a prized possession for philatelists.