In 1964, the Kingdom of Jordan commemorated the second birthday of Crown Prince Abdullah bin Al-Hussein with a beautiful set of postage stamps. These stamps not only marked the early years of a future monarch but also stand as a significant part of Jordanian philatelic history. The set consists of three vibrantly designed stamps, each capturing a glimpse of the young prince’s charm and symbolism of hope for the nation’s future.
The Stamps:
- 5 Fils (Standing by Wall): This stamp showcases young Abdullah standing confidently near a wall, symbolizing strength and stability. The design includes delicate jasmine flowers, highlighting purity and growth, a fitting tribute to the prince’s youthful innocence.
- 10 Fils (Diamond-shaped Design): This unique diamond-shaped stamp portrays a portrait of Prince Abdullah surrounded by a beautiful arrangement of roses. It is considered one of the more striking designs of the set, reflecting elegance and royal charm.
- 35 Fils (Horizontal Layout): This stamp features the prince amidst a bed of lilies, symbolizing hope and peace. It is a masterpiece of detail and vibrant artistry, celebrating the crown prince’s heritage and bright future.
A Glimpse into Prince Abdullah’s Life
Born on 30 January 1962 in Amman, Abdullah was the first child of King Hussein and Princess Muna. As a member of the Hashemite family, which traces its lineage directly to the Prophet Muhammad, Abdullah was born into a legacy of leadership and responsibility. Initially named heir apparent, his status shifted in 1965 when the title was transferred to his uncle, Prince Hassan. Despite this, Abdullah remained a prominent figure, continuing his education and military training both in Jordan and abroad.
His eventual rise to the throne in 1999 followed the passing of King Hussein, who reappointed him as his heir just weeks before his death. Since then, Abdullah II has reigned as King of Jordan, leading his country with a focus on modernization, stability, and global diplomacy.
Special Features of the Stamps
- Designer: Harrison & Sons Ltd, a well-regarded British printer, crafted the set with remarkable attention to detail.
- Catalogue Highlights:
- Unique variants such as the omission of gold elements make some stamps in this series highly sought after by collectors.
- The diamond-shaped 10 Fils stamp is particularly noted for its visual appeal.
Collectors’ Note
These stamps are more than commemorative pieces; they are windows into the rich heritage of Jordan. The designs encapsulate the essence of a young prince poised to become a prominent world leader. Collectors often cherish this set not only for its artistic merit but also for the historical narrative it preserves.
Reflection
The stamps from 1964 are a beautiful reminder of Jordan’s deep respect for its royal family and the values they represent. As King Abdullah II continues to guide Jordan through the challenges of the modern era, these early philatelic issues remain a testament to his enduring legacy and the affection with which he has been regarded since birth.