Russia year 1889/1904 St Petersburg town cancel

Russian stamps from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, specifically those related to St. Petersburg.

During the period you mentioned, 1889 to 1904, Russia was under the rule of the Russian Empire, with Tsars Alexander III (until 1894) and then Nicholas II. St. Petersburg, then the capital of the empire, was a significant city politically, culturally, and economically.

The stamps you’re referring to were likely part of what philatelists call the “Imperial Arms” or “Eagles” series. These stamps featured the double-headed eagle, the coat of arms of the Russian Empire. They were used for both domestic and international mail.

However, your specific mention of “St Petersburg town” is intriguing. It suggests you might be asking about something more specific than the general Imperial issues. There are a couple of possibilities:

1. Local Post: Some large Russian cities, including St. Petersburg, had their own local postal systems for mail within the city. These “zemstvo” stamps (named after local administrative units) often featured local symbols or simplified designs. If such stamps exist for St. Petersburg from this period, they might show city landmarks or municipal symbols.
2. Postmarks or Cancellations: Even if the stamps themselves were standard Imperial issues, they might have postmarks or cancellations indicating they were used in St. Petersburg. Collectors often value stamps with clear, identifiable postmarks from significant cities.
3. Commemorative or Special Issues: While less likely given the period, there’s a small chance there was a special issue related to a St. Petersburg event or anniversary.