On 1 October 1953, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan issued a remarkable stamp set to commemorate the enthronement of King Hussein. This event marked the beginning of a reign that would span over four decades, shaping Jordan’s modern identity and regional role. The stamp set, designed and printed by De La Rue, is both a philatelic treasure and a historical testament to the transition of power in Jordan’s Hashemite monarchy.
Design and Symbolism
The “Enthronement of King Hussein” stamps are a stunning example of detailed and thoughtful design, combining elegance and symbolism:
- Portrait of King Hussein: The central feature of each stamp is an engraved portrait of the young King Hussein, depicted in a formal pose. This portrait exudes dignity and determination, reflecting his readiness to lead.
- Arabic and English Inscriptions: The inscriptions highlight the occasion with the text: “Commemoration of Ascension – 2 May 1953”, written in both Arabic and English, symbolizing Jordan’s cultural identity and its engagement with the international community.
- Decorative Frame: Surrounding the portrait is an ornate frame, with intricate patterns that emphasize Jordan’s rich heritage and artistic traditions.
- The Crown: A crown is placed at the top of the stamp, symbolizing the monarchy and the legitimacy of King Hussein’s rule.
The variety of denominations and vibrant colors add to the visual appeal and practicality of this commemorative set.
Denominations and Colors
The set includes six denominations, each featuring a unique color scheme to enhance its aesthetic value. Below are the details:
| SG No. | Face Value | Color | Mint (£) | Used (£) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 413 | 1 Fils | Black and green | 30 | 30 |
| 414 | 4 Fils | Black and deep claret | 45 | 40 |
| 415 | 15 Fils | Black and deep bright blue | 2.75 | 55 |
| 416 | 20 Fils | Black and deep slate-lilac | 4.75 | 55 |
| 417 | 50 Fils | Black and bluish green | 10.50 | 4.50 |
| 418 | 100 Fils | Black and deep blue | 21.00 | 13.50 |
Historical Context
The issuance of this stamp set commemorates a pivotal event in Jordanian history—the enthronement of King Hussein, who ascended the throne on 2 May 1953 at the age of 17. Following the untimely death of his father, King Talal, King Hussein’s ascension marked a new chapter for the Hashemite Kingdom.
Despite his youth, King Hussein displayed remarkable leadership skills, navigating Jordan through periods of regional instability and fostering development and modernization. His reign is remembered for strengthening Jordan’s independence, improving infrastructure, and advocating for peace in the Middle East.
The issuance of these stamps not only celebrated the new king but also symbolized hope and continuity for the nation during a time of transition. The inclusion of Arabic and English inscriptions reflects Jordan’s dual heritage and its position as a bridge between the Arab world and the West.
Did You Know?
- King Hussein ruled Jordan for 47 years, making him one of the longest-reigning monarchs in the world. His leadership was marked by efforts to maintain Jordan’s sovereignty while promoting peace and development.
- The 1953 enthronement stamps were printed by De La Rue, a renowned British printing company known for its expertise in security printing and philately.
Closing Thoughts
The 1953 Enthronement of King Hussein Stamp Set is more than a philatelic issue—it is a celebration of a young king’s rise to power and the hope he inspired in his people. Combining artistry with historical significance, this set is a testament to Jordan’s journey under the Hashemite monarchy.
Whether you’re a philatelist, historian, or admirer of Jordan’s rich heritage, this set offers a glimpse into a defining moment in the kingdom’s history.
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