Author - msaud

Australia’s Ashes Victory 2013/14

September 8, 2023
msaud
Australia, Commemorative Stamps, Cricket, Sports
Add comment
Australia's Ashes Victory 2013/14

Issue:   Australia’s Ashes Victory 2013/14

Type:   Stamp

Number of Stamps:   1

Stamps Denomination:   $2.60

Issue Date:   2014

Issued By:   Australia Post

About

Australia’s Ashes victory in the 2013/14 series was a dominant and historic win, often referred to as one of the most comprehensive performances in Ashes history. The 2013–14 Ashes series was held in Australia between November 21, 2013, and January 5, 2014. Australia won the series 5–0, reclaiming the Ashes after losing the previous three series to England.

Key Highlights of Australia:

Series Result:

Australia won all five Test matches, completing a 5–0 whitewash. This was the third time in Ashes history that Australia had whitewashed England, with previous clean sweeps occurring in 1920/21 and 2006/07.

Captaincy:

Michael Clarke led the Australian team to victory. His leadership, combined with the exceptional form of key players, was instrumental in the series win.

Star Performers:

Mitchell Johnson:

The standout player of the series was Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson. He took an incredible 37 wickets at an average of 13.97, terrorizing the English batting line-up with his express pace and aggressive bowling. Johnson was named the Player of the Series for his extraordinary performance.

David Warner:

The Australian opener played key innings throughout the series, accumulating 523 runs at an average of 58.11, providing solid starts that set the tone for Australia’s dominance.

Brad Haddin:

The wicketkeeper-batsman had a crucial role, contributing heavily with the bat. He scored 493 runs at an average of 61.62, often rescuing Australia from difficult situations with important lower-order runs.

Ryan Harris and Peter Siddle:

Alongside Johnson, Harris and Siddle were formidable in the bowling attack, consistently putting pressure on the English batsmen.

England’s Struggles:

England, led by Alastair Cook, struggled throughout the series. Their batting line-up failed to deal with the pace and hostility of Mitchell Johnson, and their bowlers could not contain Australia’s batsmen. Senior players like Kevin Pietersen and Jonathan Trott were unable to deliver as expected.

Jonathan Trott left the tour after the first Test due to a stress-related illness, further weakening England’s chances.

England’s bowling spearhead, James Anderson, and all-rounder Stuart Broad were ineffective compared to their usual standards, with Australia dominating both bat and ball in nearly every match.

The Five Test Matches:

1st Test (Brisbane):

Australia won by 381 runs. Johnson took 9 wickets, and David Warner and Michael Clarke scored centuries.

2nd Test (Adelaide):

Australia won by 218 runs. Johnson took 7/40 in the first innings, decimating England’s batting.

3rd Test (Perth):

Australia won by 150 runs, clinching the series and regaining the Ashes. Johnson continued his dominant bowling, and Steve Smith scored a century.

4th Test (Melbourne):

Australia won by 8 wickets, with Johnson again instrumental, taking key wickets.

5th Test (Sydney):

Australia completed the whitewash with a 281-run victory, with Ryan Harris and Johnson bowling out England cheaply.

Aftermath:

The series marked a turning point for Australian cricket, as they bounced back from their previous Ashes defeat in England earlier in 2013 (where they lost 3–0).

For England, the loss triggered significant changes in the team. Senior players like Graeme Swann retired during the series, and Kevin Pietersen’s international career ended soon after the Ashes.

Michael Clarke and Mitchell Johnson became national heroes, with Johnson’s fearsome bowling etched in Ashes folklore.

Australia’s Ashes victory in 2013/14 was a landmark moment, showcasing their revival as a cricketing powerhouse and solidifying their dominance over England in one of the oldest and most prestigious rivalries in sports.Top of Form

A Small Step – A Giant Leap

September 7, 2023
msaud
Australia, Commemorative Stamps, Moon, Space Missions
Add comment
A Small Step - A Giant Leap

Issue: A Small Step – A Giant Leap, Headline News, 21 July 1969

Type: Stamp

Number of Stamps: 1

Stamps Denomination: 60c 

Issue Date: 2013

Issued By: Australia Post

About A Small Step – A Giant Leap

In order to commemorate the headline news of moon landing, Australia Post has issued stamp.  Denomination of stamp is 60c and it was issued in 2013.

Moon landing was considered as one of the topics of by philately, therefore it is being sought after stamps.

Moon Landing

The Moon landing took place on July 20, 1969, not July 21. On that historic day, NASA’s Apollo 11 mission successfully landed the lunar module, “Eagle,” on the Moon’s surface. Astronauts Neil Armstrong and Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the Moon, while Michael Collins orbited above in the command module. Neil Armstrong famously said, “That’s one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind,” as he descended the ladder and set foot on the lunar surface. This event marked a significant milestone in human history and space exploration.

It was one of the significant news of the time and major newspapers has it as a headline news.  Australia Post has issued this stamp to commemorate the headline news of the significant history event.

 

 

Venus Stamp Australia

September 6, 2023
msaud
Australia, Commemorative Stamps, Planets
Add comment
Venus Stamp Australia

Issue:  Venus Stamp Australia

Type:  Stamp

Number of Stamps:  1

Stamps Denomination:  70c 

Issue Date:  2015

Issued By:  Australia Post

About

The Venus Stamp from Australia is part of a famous stamp series showcasing historical art and sculptures. One notable version is the “Venus de Milo” stamp, which was issued by Australia Post as part of their Masterpieces of Art series. This stamp typically features an iconic depiction of the ancient Greek sculpture of Venus, the Roman goddess of love, known as Aphrodite in Greek mythology.

Key details:

  • Date of Issue: The Venus stamps were released in different series across various years, often as part of a broader collection celebrating art.
  • Design: The stamp typically showcases a reproduction of the Venus de Milo statue, a symbol of classical beauty and art. The design is intricate and aims to highlight the sculpture’s grace and historical importance.
  • Purpose: These stamps are generally aimed at promoting art and cultural heritage and are often highly collectible due to their artistic significance.

The Venus stamps are sought after by philatelists who appreciate both classical art and postal history. Depending on the issue and rarity, these stamps can hold value in stamp collections.

 

50 Years of Racing at Bathurst

September 5, 2023
msaud
Anniversaries, Australia, Commemorative Stamps
Add comment
50 Years od Racing at Bathurst

Issue:  50 Years of Racing at Bathurst

Type:  Stamp

Number of Stamps:  1

Stamps Denomination:  60c

Issue Date:  2012

Issued By:  Australia Post

About

The “50 Years of Racing at Bathurst” stamp was issued by Australia Post to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the iconic Bathurst 1000, one of Australia’s most famous motor racing events. The race takes place annually at Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, New South Wales, and is a key event in Australian motorsport, particularly for touring car races.

Key Details:

  • Date of Issue: 2012
  • Purpose: The stamp commemorates five decades of racing at Bathurst, celebrating the history, achievements, and legendary moments of this prestigious race. It honors the drivers, cars, and teams that made significant contributions to Australian motorsport.
  • Design: The stamp typically features iconic race cars from the Bathurst 1000 history, including vehicles from manufacturers like Ford and Holden, which have had a legendary rivalry on this track. The design showcases the dynamic nature of the sport, with action shots of racing cars in motion, giving a sense of speed and excitement.
  • Significance: Bathurst 1000 is not just a race; it’s a national sporting event deeply ingrained in Australian culture. The stamp celebrates a milestone that represents endurance, competition, and technological evolution in Australian car racing.
  • Collectibility: For philatelists and motorsport enthusiasts, this stamp holds significant value as it marks a historic event in Australian racing, making it a sought-after collectible for both stamp collectors and fans of the Bathurst 1000.

This stamp is a tribute to the thrilling legacy of Bathurst and the passion for motorsport in Australia.

Year of the Dragon 2012

September 4, 2023
msaud
Australia, Commemorative Stamps, Cultural Themes, First Day Covers
Add comment
Year of the Dragon 2012

Issue: Year of the Dragon 2012, Christmas Island

Type: First Day Cover (FDC)

Number of Stamps: 2

Stamps Denomination: 60c and $1.80

Issue Date: 10 January 2012

Issued By: Australia Post

About Year of the Dragon 2012

Introduction

Australia Post has issued FDC to celebrate the Year of the Dragon 2012.  The Australia Post FDC contains 2 postage stamps.  As the dragon came fifth in the race, it is allocated the fifth year, and it is repeated on a 12-year cycle.

The Year of the Dragon is considered one of the most significant and auspicious years in the Chinese zodiac. It holds great cultural and symbolic importance in Chinese tradition, and people born in the Year of the Dragon are believed to inherit some of its characteristics and attributes. Here are some of the significances associated with the Year of the Dragon:

Dragon as a Symbol:

The dragon is a symbol of Chinese culture itself and is deeply ingrained in Chinese history and mythology. It represents the emperor and imperial power and is often associated with the Chinese nation.

Year of the Dragon 2012

The Year of the Dragon is one of the 12 animal signs in the Chinese zodiac cycle. Each animal sign in the Chinese zodiac is associated with a specific year, and the Year of the Dragon comes around every 12 years. Here are the recent Year of the Dragon years:

  1. 1928
  2. 1940
  3. 1952
  4. 1964
  5. 1976
  6. 1988
  7. 2000
  8. 2012

The next Year of the Dragon will be in 2024, followed by subsequent Dragon years every 12 years thereafter. The Chinese zodiac is based on a 12-year cycle, with each year associated with a specific animal sign and its traits. The Year of the Dragon is often seen as a symbol of power, strength, and good luck in Chinese culture.

Strength and Power:

Dragons are often seen as symbols of strength, power, and dominance. People born in the Year of the Dragon are believed to possess these qualities and are often seen as natural leaders.

Good Luck:

The Year of the Dragon is considered a lucky year in the Chinese zodiac. It’s believed to bring good fortune and prosperity. Many couples choose to have children during Dragon years, as they are thought to be blessed with success and happiness.

Charismatic and Confident:

Those born in the Year of the Dragon are often described as charismatic, confident, and self-assured. They tend to attract attention and are seen as natural born leaders.

Ambitious and Driven:

Dragons are known for their ambitious nature and strong desire to achieve their goals. People born in Dragon years are thought to be determined and hardworking.

Creativity and Innovation:

Dragons are associated with creativity and innovation. Those born in Dragon years are believed to have a creative and imaginative streak, making them excel in artistic and intellectual pursuits.

Independence:

Dragons are seen as independent creatures, and people born in Dragon years are often thought to value their freedom and autonomy.

Protectors:

In Chinese culture, Dragons are also considered protectors, and Dragon years are believed to offer protection from harm and negative energies.

Celebrations:

The Year of the Dragon is typically marked by grand celebrations and festivities in Chinese communities around the world. These celebrations often include parades, dragon dances, and various cultural events.

 

100 Years of Going to the Pictures

August 29, 2023
msaud
Anniversaries, First Day Covers, Great Britain
Add comment
100 Years of Going to the Pictures

Issue: 100 Years of Going to the Pictures, a Cinema Celebration

Type: First Day Cover (FDC)

Number of Stamps: 5

Stamps Denomination: 19, 25, 30, 35, 41

Issue Date: 16 April 1996

Issued By: Royal Mail, United Kingdom

About 100 Years of Going to the Pictures

Introduction to the Issue

100 Years of Going to the Pictures

FDC: 100 Years of Going to the Pictures

Royal Mail has issued FDC to celebrate “100 Years of Going to the Pictures”.  It refers to a century-long journey of people attending movie theaters, commonly referred to as “going to the pictures” in the United Kingdom. This phrase reflects the evolution of cinema, movie-watching habits, and the impact of movies on culture and society over the years.

First Day cover contains 5 stamps, and it has been issued to celebrate the first picture show held on 7 March 1896.  The show was held in Leicester Square.

Overview of Cinematic Experience Over 100 Years

Here’s a brief overview of how the experience of going to the pictures has evolved over the 100 years:

Early Years (1920s-1930s):

The early 20th century saw the rise of silent films, accompanied by live music in theaters. Moviegoers dressed up for the occasion, and going to the pictures was considered a special event. Theaters were often ornate and grand, creating a sense of glamour and luxury.

Golden Age (1940s-1950s):

The introduction of sound in films brought a new level of immersion. This era saw the emergence of iconic movie stars and the establishment of Hollywood as a global entertainment hub. Theaters became even more elaborate, with the addition of features like air conditioning.

100 Years of Going to the Pictures

FDC Details: 100 Years of Going to the Pictures

Cinemascope and Technicolor (1950s-1960s):

The widescreen format of Cinemascope and the vibrant colors of Technicolor brought a new visual spectacle to the movies. Theaters began to experiment with larger screens and improved sound systems.

Drive-In Theaters (1950s-1960s):

The 1950s saw the popularity of drive-in theaters, offering a unique movie-watching experience from the comfort of one’s car. Families and couples could enjoy films under the stars.

New Wave and Cultural Shifts (1960s-1970s):

The 1960s and 1970s brought a wave of innovation in filmmaking, with directors like Quentin Tarantino and Martin Scorsese pushing boundaries. The rise of counterculture and social changes influenced the themes of films during this time.

Multiplexes and Blockbusters (1980s-1990s):

The concept of multiplex cinemas emerged, offering multiple screens under one roof. This era gave rise to blockbuster films with extensive marketing campaigns and record-breaking box office numbers.

 

 

Stamp Enthusiasts

August 28, 2023
msaud
Articles on Philately
1 Comment
Stamp Enthusiasts

Stamp Enthusiasts

Philately is alive and ever progressing due to stamp Enthusiasts.  Stamp enthusiasts, also known as stamp collectors or philatelists, are individuals who have a passion for collecting postage stamps and related materials. They actively engage in the hobby of philately, which involves acquiring, organizing, studying, and appreciating stamps.

Importance of Stamp Enthusiasts in Philately

Stamp enthusiasts often dedicate significant time, effort, and resources to their collections. They actively seek out stamps from various sources, such as postal authorities, stamp dealers, auctions, or other collectors. They carefully organize their stamps in albums or stockbooks, categorizing them by country, theme, or other criteria.

Stamp Collector

Postage Stamp

Stamp enthusiasts derive joy and satisfaction from the pursuit of stamps. They appreciate the artistic designs, historical significance, and cultural representations found on stamps. They engage in research and study to understand the stories behind the stamps, the printing techniques used, and the historical context in which they were issued.

Stamp enthusiasts often participate in stamp exhibitions, shows, and club meetings. These events provide opportunities to showcase their collections, interact with fellow collectors, and learn from experts in the field. They may also engage in trading or buying and selling stamps to enhance their collections.

Sharing of Knowledge and Passion

Stamp enthusiasts are passionate about preserving and sharing the knowledge of philately. They contribute to the preservation of postal history, cultural heritage, and artistic expressions embodied in stamps. They often play an active role in promoting the hobby, educating others about the value and significance of stamps, and fostering a sense of community among fellow enthusiasts.

Stamp enthusiasts come from all walks of life, and their motivations for collecting stamps vary. Some collect stamps as a personal hobby and means of self-expression, while others view it as an investment or a way to connect with history and culture. Regardless of their reasons, stamp enthusiasts share a common love for stamps and a desire to delve into the vast and fascinating world of philately.

Categories of Stamp Enthusiasts

Stamp enthusiasts, or stamp collectors, can be classified into various categories based on their collecting preferences, approaches, and levels of involvement in the hobby. Here are some common classifications of stamp enthusiasts:

General Collectors:

These collectors enjoy a wide range of stamps and aim to build diverse collections. They may focus on collecting stamps from different countries, time periods, or themes. General collectors often appreciate the variety and beauty of stamps and seek to amass a comprehensive collection representing different aspects of philately.

Specialized Collectors:

Specialized collectors focus on a specific area of stamp collecting, such as stamps from a particular country, region, historical era, or thematic topic. They delve deep into their chosen area, acquiring specialized knowledge and acquiring stamps that fit their specific collecting focus. Specialized collectors may have a narrower scope but a more in-depth understanding of their chosen area.

Stamp Enthusiasts

Stamps Sorting

Topical Collectors:

Topical collectors build collections based on specific themes, such as animals, sports, art, or space exploration. They seek out stamps featuring their chosen theme, regardless of the issuing country or time period. Topical collectors enjoy exploring the variety of stamps related to their theme and often create visually appealing collections centered around their chosen topic.

Philatelic Researchers:

These collectors combine their love for stamps with a keen interest in research and study. They focus on understanding the historical, cultural, and technical aspects of stamps. Philatelic researchers delve into the background of stamps, study printing methods, and analyze variations, errors, and other philatelic aspects. Their collections often reflect a deep understanding of the nuances and details of philately.

Exhibition Collectors:

Exhibition collectors are passionate about showcasing their collections to a wider audience. They meticulously organize and present their stamps in exhibits or displays for stamp shows, competitions, or other public events. Exhibition collectors pay great attention to the visual appeal, educational value, and storytelling aspects of their displays, aiming to engage and impress viewers with their collections.

Stamp Collector

Stamp Shop

Postal History Collectors:

Postal history collectors focus on the historical aspects of mail systems, postal routes, cancellations, and postmarks. They collect covers (envelopes or postal items) that bear postal markings and provide insights into postal operations and communication in different eras. Postal history collectors value the contextual information that covers provide, enriching their understanding of the postal system’s development.

First-Day Cover Collectors:

First-day cover (FDC) collectors specialize in acquiring envelopes or postcards with stamps affixed and canceled on their first day of issue. FDCs often bear special cachets or postmarks related to the stamp’s theme or event. FDC collectors appreciate the historical significance of the first day of issue and the unique postal markings associated with these covers.

These classifications are not exhaustive, and many collectors may fall into multiple categories or have their unique approach to stamp collecting. The diversity within the stamp collecting community is one of its strengths, as it allows enthusiasts to explore various aspects of philately and find their own niche within the hobby.

Football Legends UK 1996

August 24, 2023
msaud
First Day Covers, Great Britain, Soccer, Sports
1 Comment
Football Legends UK 1996

Issue: Football Legends UK 1996

Type: First Day Cover

Number of Stamps: 5

Stamps Denomination: 19,25, 35, 41, 60

Issue Date: 14 May 1996

Issued By: Royal Mail, United Kingdom

Football Legends UK 1996

Football Legends UK 1996 FDC

About Football Legends UK 1996

To celebrate European Championship finals in June 1996, FDC containing five legends of the Football were selected.  A brief detail of this issue is as below:

Dixie Dean

William Ralph “Dixie” Dean (22 January 1907 – 1 March 1980) was an English footballer, primarily known for his prolific goal-scoring ability. He is most famous for his time at Everton Football Club in the 1920s and 1930s.

Dean is considered one of the greatest goal-scorers in the history of English football. He holds the record for the most goals scored in a single top-flight league season in England, netting an incredible 60 goals during the 1927-1928 season. This record still stands to this day and is unlikely to be surpassed.

During his career, Dean played as a center-forward and was known for his physical presence, strong heading ability, and clinical finishing skills. He was a key player for Everton and helped the team win two First Division titles in 1928 and 1932, as well as an FA Cup in 1933.

Dixie Dean’s legacy in the world of football is immense, and he is remembered as one of the all-time greats. He passed away in 1980, but his records and achievements continue to be celebrated by football fans and historians alike.

Bobby Moore

Bobby Moore (12 April 1941 – 24 February 1993) was an English footballer and is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in the history of the sport. He is best known for his captaincy of the England national team during their victorious 1966 FIFA World Cup campaign.

Moore spent the majority of his club career at West Ham United, where he played as a center-back. He was known for his exceptional reading of the game, elegant tackling, calm distribution of the ball, and leadership qualities. Moore’s performances on the field earned him widespread respect and admiration, and he is often referred to as one of the finest defenders of all time.

His most notable achievement came in 1966 when he captained the England team to their first and only World Cup triumph. England defeated West Germany 4-2 in the final at Wembley Stadium, with Moore lifting the Jules Rimet Trophy as captain.

Beyond his World Cup success, Moore earned a total of 108 caps for the England national team, which was a record at the time. He was also a loyal servant to West Ham United, making over 500 appearances for the club and helping them win the FA Cup in 1964 and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1965.

Tragically, Moore passed away from cancer at the age of 51 in 1993. He is remembered not only for his exceptional footballing talent but also for his sportsmanship and the way he carried himself both on and off the field. His impact on the game and his contributions to English football continue to be honored and remembered by fans, players, and football enthusiasts worldwide.

Football Legends UK 1996

Football Legends UK 1996 FDC

Duncan Edwards

Duncan Edwards (1 October 1936 – 21 February 1958) was an English footballer who is remembered as one of the most promising talents of his generation. He played as a central midfielder and was known for his exceptional skill, versatility, strength, and maturity on the field, despite his young age.

Edwards came through the youth ranks at Manchester United and quickly established himself as a key player in the first team. He made his debut for the club at the age of 16 and went on to become a vital part of the team during the 1950s. His performances were characterized by his ability to dominate the midfield, his precise passing, and his powerful shooting.

Tragically, Edwards’ promising career was cut short in the Munich air disaster on 6 February 1958. The airplane carrying the Manchester United team crashed during takeoff in Munich, Germany, resulting in the deaths of several players, staff members, and journalists. Edwards survived the initial crash but suffered severe injuries. He passed away 15 days later due to complications from his injuries at the age of 21.

Duncan Edwards is remembered not only for his footballing talent but also for his potential to become one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. His legacy continues to be honored by Manchester United and football fans around the world. He is often regarded as a symbol of the tragedy of the Munich air disaster and the lost potential of a remarkable young talent.

Billy Wright

Billy Wright (6 February 1924 – 3 September 1994) was an English footballer who is primarily known for his long and distinguished career as a captain of the England national team and as a player for Wolverhampton Wanderers (Wolves).

Wright played as a center-back and is often considered one of the finest defenders in English football history. He was known for his impeccable sportsmanship, strong leadership on the field, and exceptional defensive skills. Wright’s ability to read the game, make crucial tackles, and organize his team’s defense made him a highly respected and admired figure in the football world.

He spent his entire club career at Wolves, making over 500 appearances for the team between 1939 and 1959. During his time at the club, Wolves won three First Division titles (1953-54, 1957-58, 1958-59) and reached the FA Cup final on multiple occasions, although they didn’t manage to secure the trophy.

Wright also had a significant international career, captaining the England national team a record 90 times between 1948 and 1959. He represented England in three World Cup tournaments (1950, 1954, 1958) and played a pivotal role in leading the team during that era.

After retiring as a player, Wright became a respected football pundit and commentator. He was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame and his contributions to the sport are still remembered and celebrated by football fans, especially those associated with Wolverhampton Wanderers and the England national team.

Danny Blanchflower

Danny Blanchflower (10 February 1926 – 9 December 1993) was a Northern Irish footballer who is best known for his time at Tottenham Hotspur and for his influential role as a midfielder and captain of both the club and the Northern Ireland national team.

Blanchflower was known for his elegant style of play, exceptional passing ability, and tactical intelligence. He was a versatile player who could contribute to both attack and defense, and he is often remembered for his leadership qualities on and off the field.

He played a crucial role in Tottenham Hotspur’s success during the 1960s. Under his captaincy, the club achieved significant milestones, including winning the First Division title in 1961 and becoming the first British club to win a major European competition, the European Cup Winners’ Cup, in 1963. Blanchflower’s performances and leadership were instrumental in guiding Tottenham to these triumphs.

In addition to his club success, Blanchflower was a prominent figure in the Northern Ireland national team. He represented his country in the 1958 FIFA World Cup and played a key role in helping Northern Ireland reach the quarter-finals, their best-ever World Cup performance.

Blanchflower was not only admired for his playing abilities but also for his insightful views on the game. He was known for his thoughtful and often philosophical musings on football, which he shared through his writings and interviews.

After retiring as a player, Blanchflower became a journalist and a television pundit. He continued to contribute to the football world with his analyses and commentary. His legacy lives on, and he is considered one of the great footballing figures of his era, remembered for his skill, leadership, and intellectual approach to the game.