On 1 November 1947, Transjordan celebrated the inauguration of its First National Parliament, a milestone in the country’s journey toward modernization and democratic governance. To commemorate this historic event, the government issued the Parliament Building Stamp Set, featuring a design that reflects the significance of this occasion.
This series, printed by De La Rue, is an elegant representation of Transjordan’s political evolution and serves as a philatelic tribute to the establishment of its parliamentary system.
Design and Symbolism
The design of the “Parliament Building” stamps prominently features:
- The Parliament Building: The central image is the newly inaugurated National Parliament building, symbolizing progress, governance, and the dawn of a new political era.
- Arabic Script: Inscriptions in Arabic mark the year of the inauguration (1947), as well as the Islamic calendar year 1366, showcasing the blend of modern and traditional elements in the country’s identity.
- Intricate Borders: Decorative patterns frame the stamp, adding elegance and highlighting Transjordan’s cultural heritage.
Denominations and Colors
The set comprises nine denominations, each with its unique color scheme and purpose for postal rates. Below are the details:
| SG No. | Face Value | Color | Mint (£) | Used (£) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 276 | 1 Mil | Violet | 30 | 30 |
| 277 | 3 Mils | Orange-red | 30 | 30 |
| 278 | 4 Mils | Yellow-green | 30 | 30 |
| 279 | 10 Mils | Brown-purple | 30 | 30 |
| 280 | 12 Mils | Carmine | 30 | 30 |
| 281 | 20 Mils | Blue | 45 | 40 |
| 282 | 50 Mils | Claret | 1.00 | 1.00 |
| 283 | 100 Mils | Pink | 2.00 | 1.85 |
| 284 | 200 Mils | Blue-green | 4.50 | 4.25 |
Imperforate Souvenir Issue
In addition to the standard perforated stamps, imperforate souvenir sets were distributed, adding an element of rarity and prestige. These imperforate versions are particularly prized among collectors for their exclusivity and connection to this significant event.
Historical Context
The inauguration of the First National Parliament in 1947 marked a turning point for Transjordan. Under the leadership of King Abdullah I, the establishment of a parliamentary system reflected the kingdom’s commitment to modernization and participatory governance. This event also symbolized the growing sovereignty and political maturity of the Hashemite Kingdom of Transjordan, which had gained independence just a year earlier in 1946.
The stamps celebrate this achievement by featuring the parliament building, a physical embodiment of the nation’s political aspirations. The inclusion of both Gregorian and Islamic calendar years further underscores the dual influences of modernity and tradition in shaping Transjordan’s national identity.
Did You Know?
- Transjordan’s parliament building was one of the first modern political structures in the region, symbolizing the Hashemite Kingdom’s aspirations for regional leadership and governance.
- The stamps were printed by De La Rue, a renowned British printing company known for its precision and quality, adding to the set’s prestige.
Closing Thoughts
The 1947 Parliament Building Stamp Set is more than just a commemorative issue—it is a philatelic representation of a nation in transformation. By celebrating the inauguration of its First National Parliament, Transjordan signaled its dedication to governance, progress, and sovereignty.
Whether you’re a philatelist, a historian, or someone with a passion for Middle Eastern history, this set offers a fascinating glimpse into Transjordan’s political and cultural evolution.
Have you collected this set or its imperforate variation? Share your stories or thoughts about its design and historical significance in the comments below! And don’t forget to subscribe for more deep dives into philatelic treasures.