The 1988 First Day Cover (FDC) commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Union of Crete with Greece and the Liberation of Epirus and Macedonia. This historical milestone marked the formal incorporation of Crete into the Greek state in 1913, following the Balkan Wars. The stamps issued as part of this set highlight Greece’s national unity, patriotism, and the struggles that led to the liberation of these regions.
Design and Composition of the First Day Cover
The FDC issued on October 7, 1988, features two commemorative stamps:
- 30 Drachma Stamp – Depicts Greek statesman Eleftherios Venizelos, an instrumental figure in Crete’s union with Greece, against the backdrop of a map of Crete overlaid with the Greek flag.
- Catalogue Value: £1.50 (Mint), £0.50 (Used)
- 70 Drachma Stamp – Illustrates a symbolic representation of liberty, showing a female figure holding a Greek flag with a map of liberated Epirus and Macedonia.
- Catalogue Value: £2.75 (Mint), £1.50 (Used)
The FDC envelope design includes a majestic illustration of a woman draped in white robes, holding a Greek flag and a laurel wreath that bears the inscription “ΕΛΛΑΣ 1913-1988” (Hellas 1913-1988), reinforcing the themes of freedom and national pride. The bottom left features the Greek postal authority (ΕΛΤΑ) logo, confirming its official issue status.
Cancellation Details: The Commemorative Athens Postmark
The postmark, applied in Athens on October 7, 1988, prominently features the inscription:
“75 ΧΡΟΝΙΑ ΑΠΟ ΤΗΝ ΕΝΩΣΗ ΤΗΣ ΚΡΗΤΗΣ ΜΕ ΤΗΝ ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΚΑΙ ΤΗΝ ΑΠΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΩΣΗ ΤΗΣ ΗΠΕΙΡΟΥ ΚΑΙ ΤΗΣ ΜΑΚΕΔΟΝΙΑΣ 1913-1988”
Translated, this states: “75 Years Since the Union of Crete with Greece and the Liberation of Epirus and Macedonia 1913-1988.” This official cancellation enhances the value of the FDC, confirming its issuance date and linking it to this momentous event in Greek history.
Historical Context: The Union of Crete and the Balkan Wars
Crete had been a focal point of Greek national aspirations throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. After multiple uprisings and diplomatic efforts, the island was officially united with Greece in 1913, following the Treaty of London.
Similarly, Epirus and Macedonia were liberated as part of the Balkan Wars (1912-1913), during which Greece, alongside its allies, successfully expelled Ottoman forces from these territories. The 1988 stamp issue serves as a tribute to the sacrifices made during this period and the enduring significance of these events in Greek history.
Philatelic Significance and Collector’s Appeal
1. National Commemorative Appeal
Collectors focusing on Greece’s historical and political milestones will find this issue highly significant due to its depiction of key figures and symbols related to Greek unification.
2. Strong Cancellation and First Day Cover Value
The Athens postmark with the historical inscription adds value, as it directly ties the issue to the anniversary. Such cancellation marks are essential for collectors specializing in Greek postal history.
3. Detailed and Symbolic Artwork
The stamps and envelope illustration effectively capture the themes of liberation, unity, and patriotism. The inclusion of Eleftherios Venizelos, Greece’s most influential modern statesman, further enhances its philatelic importance.
Conclusion: A Historic Philatelic Tribute
The 1988 First Day Cover celebrating the 75th Anniversary of Crete’s Union with Greece is an exceptional piece of postal history, combining stunning design, historical significance, and philatelic appeal. Collectors interested in Greek history, national commemorations, and political figures will find this issue an essential addition to their collections.
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