On 1 April 1952, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan issued a special commemorative stamp set to mark the unification of Jordan and Arab Palestine. This monumental event followed Jordan’s annexation of the West Bank, a result of the 1948 Arab Israeli War, and signified the establishment of Jordanian sovereignty over both banks of the Jordan River. This stamp set, printed by De La Rue, is a masterpiece of symbolic and artistic expression, commemorating Jordan’s commitment to unity and national pride.
Design and Symbolism
The “Unity of Jordan and Arab Palestine” stamps feature a striking design that integrates Jordan’s cultural and historical landmarks:
- Dome of the Rock: The iconic Islamic shrine in Jerusalem is prominently depicted, symbolizing the religious and cultural significance of Jerusalem in Jordanian and Arab identity.
- Khazneh at Petra: The Treasury at Petra, one of Jordan’s most famous archaeological sites, reflects the nation’s ancient heritage and its pride in being a custodian of Arab history.
- The Tree: A tree connects the Dome of the Rock and the Khazneh, symbolizing the unity of the two regions under Jordanian sovereignty.
- Arabic and English Inscriptions: The stamp reads “Commemorating the Unity of Jordan”, emphasizing the historic nature of the event.
Printed with intricate borders and vibrant colors, the design celebrates both Jordan’s modern aspirations and its ancient legacy.
Denominations and Colors
The set includes nine denominations, each in a unique color scheme. Below are the details:
| SG No. | Face Value | Color | Mint (£) | Used (£) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 355 | 1 Fils | Yellow-green and red-brown | 60 | 55 |
| 356 | 2 Fils | Scarlet and deep blue-green | 60 | 55 |
| 357 | 3 Fils | Black and carmine | 60 | 55 |
| 358 | 4 Fils | Orange and green | 60 | 55 |
| 359 | 5 Fils | Purple and chocolate | 75 | 70 |
| 360 | 10 Fils | Brown and violet | 75 | 70 |
| 361 | 20 Fils | Black and deep blue | 1.80 | 1.40 |
| 362 | 100 Fils | Sepia and blue | 6.50 | 4.50 |
| 363 | 200 Fils | Orange and deep violet | 17.00 | 8.50 |
- Set of 9 (Mint): 26.00
- Set of 9 (Used): 16.00
Historical Context
The 1952 stamp issue commemorates one of the most significant events in Jordan’s history—the unification of Jordan and Arab Palestine under the Hashemite Kingdom. Following the 1948 Arab Israeli War, King Abdullah I of Jordan extended Jordanian rule over the West Bank, integrating the region and its population into the kingdom. This unification was both politically and culturally significant, reinforcing Jordan’s role as a protector of Arab lands and heritage.
The depiction of both the Dome of the Rock and the Khazneh highlights Jordan’s dual identity as a modern nation and a custodian of Islamic and Arab historical treasures. By linking these landmarks with a tree, the design reflects the deep-rooted connection between the people and regions united under Jordanian sovereignty.
Did You Know?
- The Dome of the Rock is one of the oldest Islamic monuments, completed in 691 CE. Its inclusion on these stamps’ underscores Jordan’s custodianship of Islamic heritage in Jerusalem.
- The Khazneh at Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Jordan’s most iconic landmarks, reflecting the country’s connection to its Nabatean roots.
Closing Thoughts
The 1952 Unity of Jordan and Arab Palestine Stamp Set is more than just a commemorative issue—it is a reflection of Jordan’s historical, cultural, and political aspirations. By celebrating the unification of two regions, this set captures the essence of a transformative moment in Jordanian history. Whether you’re a collector, a historian, or a philatelic enthusiast, this set offers a unique glimpse into Jordan’s rich heritage and national identity.
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