On August 13, 1965, Iraq issued a remarkable set of three airmail stamps commemorating the International Co-operation Year (ICY). Designed by A. Al-Jaboori and printed by the Pakistan Security Printing Corporation, these stamps symbolize Iraq’s commitment to fostering global unity and collaboration. The iconic imagery of the handshake within a laurel wreath encapsulates the spirit of international cooperation, making this issue a standout in Iraq’s philatelic history.
Historical Context
The International Co-operation Year (ICY) was declared by the United Nations in 1965 to promote global understanding and strengthen international partnerships. For Iraq, participating in this initiative was an opportunity to showcase its commitment to peace, collaboration, and diplomatic engagement. The issuance of these stamps highlights Iraq’s active role in global affairs during a period marked by political and social transformations.
The stamps were released in three denominations, each featuring variations in design and color that emphasized the universality and importance of the message. These stamps served as symbols of Iraq’s dedication to international harmony, echoing the United Nations’ vision for a connected and cooperative world.
Stamp Details and Values
5 Fils (Black and Light Orange-Brown)
- Issue Date: 13 August 1965
- Design: Depicts a handshake within a laurel wreath, symbolizing unity and partnership. The orange-brown background provides a warm, inviting tone.
- Printing Technique: Lithographed by Pakistan Security Printing Corporation.
- Perforation: 13½ x 13
- Values (Stanley Gibbons Evaluation):
- Mint: £1.40
- Used: £0.45
- Broken Arm Variety:
- Mint: £200
- Used: £18.00
10 Fils (Bistre-Brown and Light Yellow-Olive)
- Design: Features the same handshake design but with a yellow-olive background, conveying a sense of renewal and growth.
- Values (Stanley Gibbons Evaluation):
- Mint: £2.00
- Used: £0.45
30 Fils (Black and Light Ultramarine)
- Design: The blue background adds a sense of calm and trust, reinforcing the theme of international cooperation.
- Values (Stanley Gibbons Evaluation):
- Mint: £5.00
- Used: £2.00
- Broken Arm Variety:
- Mint: £18.00
- Used: £5.00
Set of 3 Stamps
- Mint Value: £7.50
- Used Value: £2.50
Design and Artistic Elements
The ICY stamps are a fine example of minimalist yet powerful design. The handshake within the laurel wreath serves as a universal symbol of peace and cooperation, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers. The Arabic inscriptions and the ICY emblem reinforce the stamps’ message of global unity while emphasizing Iraq’s cultural identity.
Each stamp’s color scheme was carefully chosen to evoke specific emotions and themes:
- 5 Fils: The orange-brown tones signify warmth and partnership.
- 10 Fils: The yellow-olive hues symbolize growth, renewal, and prosperity.
- 30 Fils: The ultramarine background reflects trust, stability, and peace.
The attention to detail in the printing process, coupled with the bold yet simple imagery, makes this issue a standout in mid-20th-century philatelic design.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The ICY stamps not only commemorate a global initiative but also highlight Iraq’s role in fostering international collaboration. By issuing these stamps, Iraq aligned itself with the United Nations’ goals of promoting peace and understanding among nations. The laurel wreath, a classical symbol of victory and unity, paired with the handshake, conveys a timeless message of cooperation and mutual respect.
These stamps also serve as a reminder of Iraq’s rich cultural heritage and its aspirations for a harmonious global future. For collectors, they represent an important era in Iraq’s history, offering insight into the country’s diplomatic and cultural priorities during the 1960s.
Notable Error: The “Broken Arm” Variety
Among the ICY stamps, the “Broken Arm” variety is a notable philatelic error. Found on both the 5 Fils and 30 Fils stamps, this error, characterized by an incomplete depiction of the handshake, is highly sought after by collectors. Its rarity and unique nature make it a prized addition to any collection.
- 5 Fils Broken Arm Variety:
- Mint Value: £200
- Used Value: £18.00
- 30 Fils Broken Arm Variety:
- Mint Value: £18.00
- Used Value: £5.00
Call-to-Action
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