On December 27, 1975, Algeria issued a single commemorative stamp celebrating the 1000th anniversary of Al-Azhar University, one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the world. Founded in 970 CE in Cairo, Egypt, Al-Azhar has been a centre of Islamic scholarship and education for over a millennium.
Stamp Details
- Issue Date: December 27, 1975
- Printing Method: Offset Printing (Odr.)
- Perforation: 11½:12¼
Stamp Breakdown
- 2.00 Dinar – Al-Azhar University Building
Pricing
- Mint Condition: €2.50
- Used Condition: €1.00
Historical Significance
Al-Azhar University is recognized as:
- One of the world’s oldest universities, playing a key role in Islamic education and jurisprudence.
- A centre of learning for Sunni Islam, producing scholars, imams, and religious leaders for centuries.
- A symbol of intellectual and cultural exchange, attracting students from across the Muslim world.
This stamp was issued to commemorate 1000 years of Al-Azhar’s enduring influence, reflecting Algeria’s deep historical and religious ties with Egypt.
The design features:
- The grand mosque and minarets of Al-Azhar, representing architectural and scholarly heritage.
- A deep blue sky, symbolizing knowledge, wisdom, and enlightenment.
- Intricate calligraphy, emphasizing the university’s Islamic identity.
Collector’s Insights
- This is a single-issue stamp, making it straightforward to acquire for collectors.
- It holds strong thematic value, especially for those focusing on educational institutions, Islamic heritage, and Arab world history.
- Its visually striking design and historical relevance make it a must-have for collectors of Algerian and Islamic-themed stamps.
Final Thoughts
The 1975 Algeria Al-Azhar University Millennium stamp is a fitting tribute to one of the most influential educational institutions in the Islamic world. This issue is highly significant for collectors interested in academic heritage, Islamic history, and world education milestones.
Do you own this historic Algerian stamp?
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