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Australia, Flora and Fauna, Plants

Issue: Apples Australia Post

Type: Stamp

Number of Stamps: 1

Stamps Denomination: $5

Issue Date: 2012

Issued By: Australia Post

About

The Apples stamp issued by Australia Post is part of a series that celebrates Australian agriculture and horticulture. Here’s an overview of this stamp:

Details:

Date of Issue:

The stamp was released on October 3, 2017.

Series:

It is part of the Australian Fruits series, which highlights different types of fruit grown in Australia.

Design:

The design of the stamp was created by Jenny McDee, who is known for her work on various Australian postal issues.

The stamp showcases different varieties of apples, reflecting their role in Australian horticulture. The design includes vibrant, high-quality imagery of apples, capturing their color and texture. It often features one or more types of apples against a backdrop of Australian farm or orchard settings.

Denomination:

The stamp is issued in the denomination of 65 cents, which was the rate for domestic letters in Australia at the time of issuance.

Printing:

The stamp was printed using offset lithography, a method that provides detailed and colorful images.

Significance:

The stamp highlights the importance of apple cultivation in Australia. Apples are a major fruit crop, and the stamp serves to celebrate the variety and quality of apples grown in the country.

It also raises awareness about Australian agriculture and promotes the appreciation of locally grown produce.

Collectibility:

The stamp is collectible due to its role in celebrating Australian fruits and agriculture. It appeals to collectors of fruit-themed stamps, agricultural issues, and Australian postal history.

Collectors may seek out first-day covers, special cancellations, or blocks of the stamp for their collections.

Educational Impact:

The stamp educates the public about the significance of apple cultivation in Australia and highlights the diversity of Australian fruit varieties.

The Apples stamp is a beautiful representation of Australian fruit and agriculture, celebrating the role of apples in the country’s horticultural industry and offering a visually appealing addition to any stamp collection.

DHL New Zealand Lion Series

September 10, 2023

Issue: DHL New Zealand Lion Series 2005

Type: Stamps

Number of Stamps: 2

Stamps Denomination: $1.50 & 45c

Issue Date: 1 June 2005

Issued By: New Zealand Post

About DHL New Zealand Lion Series 2005

New Zealand Post has issued couple of unique and beautiful postage stamps to commemorate DHL New Zealand Lion Series 2005. Stamps are in the shape of official Jersey worn by the New Zealand Team. The denomination of stamps is $1.50 and 45c respectively.

Year 2005 will be remembered for the clash of two Rugby Giants. The New Zealand national rugby union team, known as the All Blacks, has a storied history with various jersey designs over the years. In 2005, the All Blacks’ jersey was primarily black with white collar and cuffs. The iconic silver fern, which is a symbol of New Zealand, was featured prominently on the left chest. The jersey was sponsored by Adidas, and their logo was also displayed on the jersey.

All Blacks have achieved numerous successes, including winning the Rugby World Cup multiple times and consistently performing well in international competitions. They are known for their skill, discipline, and a unique style of play that combines physicality with creative and dynamic rugby.

The All Blacks have a strong tradition of producing world-class rugby players, and their national team is known for its rich rugby heritage. They have a passionate and dedicated fan base both in New Zealand and around the world.

German 2002 End Of The DM Of Payment Postcard

September 10, 2023

Commemorative Stamps, Countries and Territories, First Day Covers, France, Postcard, Special Collections and Events, Special Releases

France 2002 End Of The DM Of Payment Postcard

Issue: German 2002 End Of The DM Of Payment Postcard

Type: Postcard

Number of Stamps: 1

Stamps Denomination:

Issue Date: 28 FEB 2002

Issued By: German Post 2002

German 2002 End Of The DM Of Payment Postcard

About

The end of a currency like the Deutsche Mark in Germany, is usually marked by official government announcements and actions. The government and central bank typically release statements explaining the transition to a new currency.

The German 2002 End of the Deutsche Mark (DM) Payment Postcard is a commemorative item issued to mark the transition from the Deutsche Mark (DM) to the Euro (€) as the official currency in Germany. Here’s an overview of this postcard:

Details:

Purpose:

The postcard commemorates the end of the Deutsche Mark as Germany’s official currency and the introduction of the Euro.

Features:

The postcard typically includes imagery related to the transition from the Deutsche Mark to the Euro. This could include representations of Deutsche Mark banknotes or coins, Euro currency symbols, or other elements symbolizing the currency changeover.

Artwork:

The design may feature artistic depictions of the Deutsche Mark and Euro, reflecting the historical significance of this monetary transition.

Significance:

Historical Context:

The transition from the Deutsche Mark to the Euro was a significant event in European history, symbolizing Germany’s integration into the Eurozone and the broader European Union financial system.

Cultural Impact:

This postcard serves as a memento of a major economic and cultural shift, capturing the end of an era for German currency and the beginning of a new one with the Euro.

Collectibility:

Philatelic Value:

The postcard is collectible for its role in commemorating a major milestone in German and European history. Collectors value it for its historical significance and the unique context of the currency transition.

Special Features:

Collectors may look for postcards with specific postmarks or commemorative cancellations that highlight the exact date of the transition.

Educational Impact:

The postcard provides historical insight into the transition from the Deutsche Mark to the Euro, offering a visual representation of a key event in European monetary history.

Historical Context:

The Deutsche Mark was the official currency of Germany from 1948 until 2002. Its replacement by the Euro was a significant event in the process of European integration and economic unity.

In summary the German 2002 End of the Deutsche Mark Payment Postcard is a collectible item that marks the end of the Deutsche Mark and the beginning of the Euro era. It serves as a historical document reflecting a major change in Germany’s currency system and European economic integration.Bottom of Form

Sverige 1975 Swedish FDC

September 10, 2023

Countries and Territories, Famous Individuals, First Day Covers, Special Collections and Events, Special Releases, Sweden

Issue: Sverige 1975 Swedish FDC

Type: First Day Cover

Number of Stamps: 5

Stamps Denomination:

Issue Date: 22 SEP 1973

Issued By: Swedish ( Sweden ) 1973

Sverige 1975 Swedish FDC

1975 Swedish First Day Cover FDC with the theme SVERIGE featuring various Swedish historical figures. First Sverige 1975 Day Cover FDC featuring A.E. Nordenskiold, S.A. Andree, and Carl Peter Thunberg from Sweden in 1975, focus on Swedish stamps and FDCs issued in 1975. These catalogs often provide detailed information about individual stamp issues and associated FDCs.

About Sverige 1975 FDC

Consult Philatelic Catalogs:

Philately catalogs like the Scott Catalog or specialized Swedish Postage stamp catalogs may provide information about FDCs issued in 1975 featuring A.E. Nordenskiold, S.A. Andree, and Carl Peter Thunberg. These catalogs often include images and descriptions of FDCs.

Visit Philatelic Websites

There are online resources and websites dedicated to stamp collecting, where collectors and experts often share information about FDCs and other collectibles. You can search for these covers on websites like eBay, Delcampe, or specialized stamp collector forums.

Contact Philatelic Societies:

Reach out to philatelic societies or clubs in Sweden or those specializing in Swedish stamps. Members of these organizations may have knowledge of specific FDCs issued in 1975.

Philatelic Experts and Dealers:

Contact philatelic experts or dealers who specialize in Swedish stamps and FDCs. They can help you identify and appraise the covers you have or guide you in acquiring them if you don’t already possess them.

Visit Philatelic Exhibitions:

Philatelic exhibitions often feature displays of rare and collectible stamps and covers. Attending such events may allow you to see examples of FDCs related to the individuals you are interested in.

The Civil War Vicksburg 1863

September 9, 2023

Historical Events and Personalities, United States America, War

Issue: The Civil War Vicksburg 1863. USA Forever, Vicksburg April 16-July 04,1863

Type: Stamp, First-Class Forever Commemorative

Number of Stamps: 1

Stamps Denomination: 46c

Issue Date: 2013

Issued By: United States Postal Service (USPS)

About

The “Civil War: Vicksburg 1863” stamp is part of a series issued by the United States Postal Service (USPS) to commemorate significant events during the American Civil War. The Siege of Vicksburg, which took place in 1863, was a pivotal battle that greatly influenced the outcome of the war.

Key Details:

Date of Issue:

The Vicksburg stamp was part of the Civil War Sesquicentennial Series, which began in 2011 to mark the 150th anniversary of the Civil War (1861–1865). The Vicksburg stamp was released in 2013 to honor the 150th anniversary of the battle.
Historical Context:

The Siege of Vicksburg, which lasted from May 18 to July 4, 1863, was a critical Union victory during the Civil War. The battle resulted in the Union gaining control of the Mississippi River, which split the Confederacy in two and gave the North a major strategic advantage. The surrender of Vicksburg by Confederate forces under General John C. Pemberton to Union General Ulysses S. Grant marked a turning point in the war.
Design:

The stamp depicts scenes associated with the battle, often showing historical artwork or illustrations that capture the intensity of the siege. This includes imagery of soldiers in trenches, the landscape of Vicksburg, and Union and Confederate forces in battle. The design reflects the ruggedness of the Mississippi terrain and the military fortifications used during the siege.
Significance:

The fall of Vicksburg, along with the Union victory at Gettysburg (fought simultaneously), marked a decisive moment in the Civil War, as it disrupted Confederate supply lines and gave the Union control of the Mississippi River. The victory at Vicksburg solidified General Grant’s reputation, eventually leading to his promotion as the commander of the Union armies.
Collectibility:

This stamp is part of a series that is highly valued by collectors interested in American history, particularly those focused on military and Civil War memorabilia. The stamp, along with others in the Civil War Sesquicentennial Series, serves as both a tribute to the soldiers who fought and a reminder of the war’s lasting impact on the United States.

This stamp not only honors the historical significance of the Siege of Vicksburg but also serves as a reminder of the critical events that shaped the course of American history during the Civil War.

Principality Of Liechtenstein Germany 1982 Walser Series 2 Postcard

September 9, 2023

Countries and Territories, Cultural Themes, Germany, Postcard, Special Collections and Events, Special Releases

Issue: Principality Of Liechtenstein Germany 1982 Walser Series 2 Postcard

Type: Postcard

Number of Stamps: 1

Stamps Denomination: 80E

Issue Date: 8 AUG 1982

Issued By: Deutsche Post, Germany

Principality Of Liechtenstein Germany 1982 Walser Series 2 Postcard

About

Is a part of a special stamp and postcard series issued by Liechtenstein to celebrate the cultural and historical heritage of the Walser people, an ethnic group known for settling in the Alpine regions of Switzerland, Austria, Liechtenstein, and Italy. The Walser are particularly associated with their unique language, traditions, and architecture in these mountain regions.

Key Details:

Date of Issue: 1982
Theme:
The postcard and stamp series highlight the Walser culture, focusing on their traditional way of life, including their distinctive architecture, clothing, and the rugged alpine environment they settled in. The series was created to honor the historical contributions of the Walser people to the cultural identity of Liechtenstein and other alpine regions.
Design:
The design of the Series 2 postcard typically includes imagery related to Walser homes, alpine landscapes, and traditional Walser life. These postcards often showcase rustic wooden houses, traditional Walser attire, and the beautiful yet challenging mountain environments in which they lived.
Stamp:
Accompanying the postcard is a stamp issued by the Principality of Liechtenstein, which also focuses on the Walser theme. The stamp typically features traditional designs or depictions of the Walser community, blending cultural history with intricate artistic detail. It reflects the pride Liechtenstein takes in its shared cultural heritage with the Walser people.
Cultural Significance:
The Walser are an important ethnic group in the history of the Alpine regions, including Liechtenstein. They migrated from the Upper Valais region of Switzerland to settle in remote mountain areas, where they developed a distinct identity. The series serves to recognize their lasting influence on the architecture, farming techniques, and community structures in Liechtenstein and beyond.
Collectibility:
Postcards and stamps from the Walser Series are valued among philatelists and collectors interested in European cultural history and regional traditions. The 1982 issue is particularly appreciated for its detailed artwork and the cultural depth it represents.

This postcard and stamp series beautifully encapsulate the essence of the Walser people and their impact on the alpine regions, offering a glimpse into a unique cultural heritage that spans centuries.

Pioneer Family Planning Marie Stopes

September 9, 2023

Famous Individuals, Great Britain, Historical Events and Personalities, Scientists

Issue: Pioneer Family Planning Marie Stopes

Type: Stamp

Number of Stamps: 1

Stamps Denomination: 50p

Issue Date: 2008, Women of Distinction – 14 October 2008

Issued By: Royal Mail, Great Briton

About

Marie Stopes was a pioneering figure in the field of family planning and reproductive health. She made significant contributions to women’s rights, contraception, and sexual education, particularly in the early 20th century.

Key Details about Marie Stopes and Her Contributions to Family Planning:

Background and Early Life:
- Marie Charlotte Carmichael Stopes
- (1880–1958) was a British scientist, author, and advocate for women’s reproductive rights. She initially trained as a paleobotanist, earning a doctorate from the University of Munich and becoming the youngest person to receive a Doctor of Science degree from University College London.
- Stopes’ personal experiences and her observations of societal issues related to marriage and motherhood inspired her to address the lack of sexual education and contraceptive options available to women.
Groundbreaking Book – “Married Love” (1918):
- In 1918, she published “Married Love”, a revolutionary book that openly discussed sexuality, contraception, and the importance of emotional and physical intimacy within marriage. It was controversial at the time because it addressed topics that were considered taboo, especially for women. The book gained widespread popularity and brought attention to the need for family planning.
Birth Control Advocacy:
- Marie Stopes believed that women should have control over their reproductive health and the size of their families. She advocated for the use of contraceptives, which were largely unavailable or socially stigmatized at the time. She aimed to improve the health and well-being of women, particularly in working-class families where unplanned pregnancies often led to economic strain and poor living conditions.
Founding of the First Birth Control Clinic:
- In 1921, Stopes and her husband, Humphrey Verdon Roe, established the first family planning clinic in Britain. The clinic, located in Holloway, North London, offered birth control advice, contraception, and educational materials to married women. The clinic was one of the first in the world dedicated to providing contraceptive services.
- Although initially focused on married women, Stopes’ work expanded over time to include broader access to birth control for all women. The clinic served as a model for family planning services globally.
Publications and Influence:
- Marie Stopes published several other influential works, including “Wise Parenthood” (1918), which provided detailed information on contraception methods, and “Radiant Motherhood” (1920), promoting maternal health and the benefits of planned parenthood.
- Her work directly challenged societal norms, influenced public health policies, and contributed to a broader movement for women’s rights and reproductive autonomy.
Marie Stopes International:
- After her death in 1958, her legacy continued through the organization Marie Stopes International (MSI), founded in 1976. MSI has since become a leading provider of family planning, reproductive health, and contraception services worldwide. The organization operates in dozens of countries, offering education, contraception, safe abortion services (where legal), and other reproductive health care to millions of women, particularly in underserved regions.

Legacy:

Marie Stopes is remembered as a controversial yet influential figure in the fight for women’s reproductive rights. Her pioneering efforts in family planning helped shape modern approaches to contraception and sexual health, improving the lives of countless women globally.

Her work has had a lasting impact, advancing the discourse around women’s health and reproductive choices, which continues to resonate today.

Giovanni Toscani The Adoration of the Magi

September 9, 2023

Art and Culture, Artists, Artworks, Australia, Thematic Collections

Issue: Giovanni Toscani The Adoration of the Magi

Type: Stamp

Number of Stamps: 1

Stamps Denomination: $1.80

Issue Date: 1994

Issued By: Australia Post

About

Giovanni Toscani was an Italian Renaissance painter, known for his contributions to religious art. His work, The Adoration of the Magi, is a classic representation of the biblical scene where the three Magi, or wise men, present gifts to the infant Jesus, honoring his birth. This subject was a popular theme in Renaissance art, symbolizing reverence, humility, and the recognition of Jesus as the King of Kings.

Key Details

Artist: Giovanni Toscani (1372–1430)
Time Period:
Toscani worked during the early Renaissance period, a time when art in Italy was marked by a revival of classical themes, attention to naturalism, and the use of perspective.
The Scene:
- “The Adoration of the Magi” portrays the journey of the three wise men—traditionally named Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar—following the star to Bethlehem to present gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the baby Jesus.
- In Toscani’s version, as in many Renaissance depictions, the scene often includes elements like the Holy Family (Mary, Joseph, and Jesus), the Magi in richly decorated robes, and sometimes accompanying figures such as shepherds or angels. The Magi are typically shown bowing in reverence, offering their gifts, and marveling at the newborn Christ.
Artistic Style:
- Toscani’s work reflects the early Renaissance style, with a focus on graceful figures, vivid color, and religious symbolism. His use of composition, especially in arranging the figures around the central focus of the infant Jesus, draws the viewer’s attention to the sacred moment.
- While perspective was still developing as a technique, Toscani’s work shows an effort to create depth and space, characteristic of the evolving artistic methods of the time.
Symbolism:
- The Magi, often depicted as representing different ages and regions, symbolize the idea that Christ’s message is universal, extending to all nations.
- The gifts themselves—gold (for kingship), frankincense (for divinity), and myrrh (for mortality)—are rich in Christian symbolism, recognizing Christ as a king, divine, and human.
Significance in Renaissance Art:
- Religious themes like the Adoration of the Magi were incredibly popular in Renaissance Italy, not just for their spiritual significance but also as a way for artists to explore themes of power, wealth, and devotion. Toscani’s work contributes to this tradition, blending religious reverence with artistic innovation.
- The Adoration of the Magi scenes were often commissioned by wealthy patrons or religious institutions, and they became central pieces in churches or private chapels, reflecting the religious devotion and wealth of the patrons.

Though Toscani may not be as widely known as some of his contemporaries like Giotto or Fra Angelico, his works, including The Adoration of the Magi offer a beautiful glimpse into the religious fervor and artistic creativity of the early Renaissance. His focus on detailed costumes, expressive faces, and the sacredness of the event aligns with the broader Renaissance movement of combining spirituality with humanistic art.

Germany Kaufmann1982 Principality of Liechtenstein Series1Postcard

September 8, 2023

Art and Culture, Countries and Territories, Cultural Themes, Germany, Postcard, Special Collections and Events, Special Releases

Issue: Germany Kaufmann 1982 Principality of Liechtenstein Series 1 Postcard

Type: Postcard

Number of Stamps: 1

Stamps Denomination: 70E

Issue Date: 8 AUG 1982

Issued By: Deutsche Post, Germany

Germany Kaufmann 1982 Principality of Liechtenstein Series 1 Postcard

About

The collectible postcard from a specific series likely designed or distributed by the Kaufmann publishing house in Germany. This postcard is part of a series dedicated to the Principality of Liechtenstein, a small, culturally rich European country known for its alpine landscapes, castles, and historical significance.

Key Details:

Date of Issue: 1982

Publisher/Designer:

Kaufmann, a notable German postcard publisher, often responsible for creating series of high-quality collectible postcards featuring European cities, landscapes, and cultural icons.

Theme:

The Series 1 Postcard from Liechtenstein could depict a variety of subjects, including:

Scenic views of Liechtenstein’s mountainous landscapes.

Landmarks such as Vaduz Castle, the official residence of the Princely Family of Liechtenstein.

Cultural scenes representing local traditions, architecture, and events in the Principality.

Historical figures or events tied to the history of Liechtenstein, including aspects of its monarchy, which is one of the oldest in Europe.

Design:

Postcards in this series often feature vivid photography or artistically rendered images, along with detailed descriptions of the scenes or subjects. They are typically printed on high-quality paper and intended for both mailing and collection.

Significance:

These postcards not only serve as keepsakes for travelers and tourists but also as valuable items for philatelists and postcard collectors. Liechtenstein has a long tradition of being celebrated in stamps and postcards due to its historical and geographical uniqueness, making this series particularly collectible.

Cultural and Historical Value:

A postcard series like this would emphasize Liechtenstein’s rich cultural heritage, including its connection to the Alps, its status as a principality, and its importance as a small but influential state within Europe. Collectors often seek these cards as part of broader European postcard collections, celebrating the beauty and history of countries like Liechtenstein.

The reflection of both the natural beauty and the cultural history of this small, fascinating country, and it remains a collectible item for enthusiasts of European postcards and philately.

Coral Rabbitfish Australia

September 8, 2023

Aquatic Animals, Australia, Flora and Fauna