A Royal Commemoration: Greece’s 1966 First Day Cover Honouring the Royal Family – Princess Alexia’s First Birthday
The world of philately often intersects with history, providing fascinating glimpses into the past through carefully crafted stamps and First Day Covers (FDCs). One such remarkable issue is the 1966 “Princess Alexia’s First Birthday” stamp issue, celebrating the royal family of Greece, particularly featuring Princess Alexia as an infant. This FDC, issued on December 19, 1966, is a fine example of royal-themed philately, appealing to collectors who focus on monarchy-related issues, historical themes, and classic European stamp designs.
Design and Composition of the First Day Cover
The First Day Cover (FDC) features a well-balanced and elegant design, consistent with royal themes seen in European philately. The left side showcases a monochromatic illustration of Queen Anne-Marie tenderly holding baby Princess Alexia. Above the illustration, the text “ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΑ ΤΑΧΥΔΡΟΜΕΙΑ” (Hellenic Post) is prominently displayed, signifying the official issuance by the Greek postal authority. Below, the words “ΠΡΩΤΗ ΗΜΕΡΑ ΚΥΚΛΟΦΟΡΙΑΣ” (First Day of Issue) mark the special nature of this release.
The cover bears three stamps, each highlighting a different aspect of the Greek royal family:
- Green 2 Drachma Stamp: Features a portrait of the infant Princess Alexia sitting in a regal yet natural pose. Catalogue value: £0.35 (Mint), £0.20 (Used).
- Brown 2.50 Drachma Stamp: Displays a family portrait of King Constantine II, Queen Anne-Marie, and baby Princess Alexia. Catalogue value: £0.45 (Mint), £0.20 (Used).
- Blue 3.50 Drachma Stamp: Focuses on Queen Anne-Marie holding Princess Alexia, reinforcing the maternal bond theme seen in the cover’s illustration. Catalogue value: £0.75 (Mint), £0.35 (Used).
Each stamp bears the inscription “ΕΛΛΑΣ-HELLAS”, the bilingual notation of Greece, along with the crown emblem at the top, symbolizing the royal nature of the issue.
Cancellation Details: The Royal Coat of Arms Postmark
The postmark, applied in Athens (ΑΘΗΝΑ), prominently features the Royal Coat of Arms of Greece, which was officially used during the monarchy. This emblem is rich in symbolism and reflects the nation’s royal heritage.
The Royal Coat of Arms of Greece consists of a blue shield bearing a white cross, representing the national emblem. At the center of this cross lies an inescutcheon featuring the arms of the Greek line of the House of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburg, the royal dynasty of Greece. This inescutcheon includes elements such as the three blue lions and nine red hearts of Denmark, two blue lions of Schleswig, and other symbols representing regions associated with the dynasty. The shield is surmounted by a golden royal crown and supported by two figures of Heracles (Hercules), each holding a club and wearing the skin of the Nemean lion, symbolizing strength and heroism. Surrounding the shield is the ribbon and cross of the Order of the Redeemer, Greece’s highest honor, featuring the image of Christ Pantocrator and the motto: “Η ΔΕΞΙΑ ΣΟΥ ΧΕΙΡ, ΚΥΡΙΕ, ΔΕΔΟΞΑΣΤΑΙ ΕΝ ΙΣΧΥΙ” (“Thy right hand, O Lord, is become glorious in power”). Beneath the shield, a golden ribbon bears the royal motto: “ῐσχύς μου ῐ ἀγάπη τοῦ λαοῖ” (“The people’s love, my strength”).
The inclusion of this coat of arms in the postmark not only authenticates the FDC but also underscores the royal significance of the stamp issue, commemorating the birth of Princess Alexia. For philatelists, such details enhance the cover’s historical and collectible value, offering deeper insights into Greece’s monarchical history and its representation in philatelic materials.
Historical Context: The Greek Monarchy in 1966
At the time of issuance, Greece was still a constitutional monarchy under King Constantine II, who ascended the throne in 1964 following the death of his father, King Paul. The young king had married Princess Anne-Marie of Denmark, and their first child, Princess Alexia, was born in 1965.
This stamp issue was intended to celebrate the birth of the royal heir and reinforce public sentiment toward the monarchy. However, this period was politically turbulent for Greece. In 1967, just a year after the release of these stamps, the Greek military junta seized power, leading to the exile of the royal family. By 1973, the monarchy was officially abolished following a controversial referendum.
From a historical perspective, this 1966 FDC serves as one of the last major philatelic tributes to the Greek monarchy before its dissolution.
Philatelic Significance and Collector’s Appeal
1. Royal-Themed Philately
Collectors who specialize in royal family stamps will find this issue particularly appealing, as it highlights an important moment in Greek royal history. The use of multiple portraits within a single issue is also noteworthy.
2. Limited Usage and Historical Importance
Given the political upheaval that followed in Greece, many royal-related stamps and covers from this period became obsolete within a few years. This makes them more desirable for collectors interested in political history and rare postal memorabilia.
3. Aesthetic and Engraving Excellence
The stamps exhibit detailed engraving work, a characteristic of Greek stamps of the mid-20th century. The combination of different colors—green, brown, and blue—enhances their visual appeal and makes them stand out in thematic collections.
Conclusion: A Regal Tribute Frozen in Time
This 1966 First Day Cover, featuring the “Princess Alexia’s First Birthday” issue, encapsulates a pivotal moment in Greek history, celebrating the nation’s royal heritage while unknowingly marking the twilight of the monarchy. For philatelists, it remains a treasured piece that connects the worlds of royalty, politics, and postal history.
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