Iraq’s rich history and cultural identity have always been reflected in its postage stamps, and this particular set from 1963 is no exception. Issued under the Republic of Iraq, these stamps were released to commemorate Iraqi Army Day, an annual celebration of the country’s armed forces. This set is a powerful representation of national pride, military strength, and the leadership of General Abdul Karim Qasim, Iraq’s president at the time.
The Design and Symbolism
This set prominently features:
- Military Parade: A central focus of each stamp is a line of tanks, symbolizing Iraq’s military strength and its modernization during General Qasim’s leadership.
- The Iraqi Flag: The national flag is proudly displayed, reinforcing themes of unity, sovereignty, and nationalism.
- General Abdul Karim Qasim: The stamps feature a bold portrait of General Qasim, the leader of Iraq after the 1958 revolution, which ended the monarchy. His inclusion symbolizes the role of the armed forces in shaping Iraq’s new republic.
Printed by Courvoisier S.A., a renowned Swiss printing company, these stamps are known for their vibrant colors and intricate craftsmanship, making them a favorite among collectors.
Stamp Denominations and Colors
The set includes the following denominations:
- 3 Fils: Yellow background
- 5 Fils: Purple background
- 6 Fils: Green background
- 10 Fils: Light blue background
- 10 Fils (Second Color): Pink background
- 20 Fils: Dark pink background
- 40 Fils: Blue background
- 50 Fils: Blue and dark purple background
Each denomination and color variation enhances the set’s visual variety, making it a valuable addition to any philatelic collection. SG No. 612/619
Historical Context
The 1965 Army Day Stamps were issued to commemorate Iraqi Army Day, celebrated annually on January 6th. This day marks the founding of the Iraqi Army in 1921, shortly after the creation of the British mandate in Mesopotamia. By 1965, the army had become a central institution in Iraq’s national identity.
The stamps feature General Abdul Karim Qasim, who led Iraq from 1958 until his assassination in 1963. While these stamps were issued posthumously, they celebrate Qasim’s contributions to Iraq’s military modernization and the establishment of a republican government. General Qasim is remembered for his focus on land reforms, infrastructure projects, and strengthening the armed forces.
Philatelic Significance
For philatelists, this set holds special value for several reasons:
- Artistic Merit: The vibrant colors and high-quality printing by Courvoisier S.A. make these stamps visually striking and highly collectible.
- Historical Value: They provide insight into Iraq’s national priorities during the mid-20th century.
- Commemorative Purpose: The stamps celebrate Iraqi Army Day, a key event in the nation’s annual calendar, reflecting the military’s role in Iraq’s identity and politics.
Did You Know?
Iraqi Army Day is one of the most significant national holidays in Iraq, marking the establishment of the armed forces. This set of stamps not only commemorates the event but also promotes national unity and pride during a politically transformative era.
Closing Thoughts
The 1963 Iraqi Military Parade stamp set is more than just a collection of postage; it represents a crucial chapter in Iraq’s modern history. Featuring the leadership of General Abdul Karim Qasim, these stamps highlight Iraq’s aspirations for modernization, military strength, and national unity. Whether you’re a philatelist, a historian, or simply an enthusiast of Iraqi culture, this set offers a fascinating glimpse into Iraq in the 1960s.
Have you come across this stamp set in your collection? What are your thoughts on its design and historical significance? Share your stories or photos in the comments below! And don’t forget to subscribe for more deep dives into the world of stamps and postal history.