A Milestone in Aviation History
On April 13, 1938, the Soviet Union issued a three-stamp set commemorating the second successful non-stop trans-polar flight from Moscow to San Jacinto, California. This historic flight, conducted from July 12–14, 1937, showcased Soviet advancements in aviation and celebrated the courage and skill of three pioneering aviators—Mikhail Gromov, Sergey Danilin, and Andrey Yumashev.
The stamps capture the significance of this monumental achievement, immortalizing the aviators and their groundbreaking journey.
The Stamps and Their Designs
This commemorative series features bold portraits of the three aviators, paired with the route map of their trans-polar journey. Each denomination highlights a unique color palette and reflects the significance of the flight.
- 10 Kopecks – Claret
- Design: The stamp features the aviators’ portraits with a detailed depiction of the flight route, tracing their journey over the North Pole to California.
- Significance: This stamp captures the historical importance of their Arctic flight while honoring their daring spirit.
- 20 Kopecks – Brown-Black
- Design: A similar layout to the 10 Kopecks, with a rich brown-black hue that emphasizes the monumental scale of their achievement.
- Symbolism: Represents the grit and determination required to traverse such a challenging route.
- 50 Kopecks – Dull Violet
- Design: The largest denomination in the set, printed in a regal violet tone, emphasizing the prestige of this record-breaking flight.
- Mood: Celebrates the global recognition earned by the aviators and Soviet aviation technology.
Historical Background
The second trans-polar flight was one of the Soviet Union’s most ambitious aviation feats. Covering over 11,000 kilometres non-stop, the flight demonstrated the capabilities of Soviet-designed aircraft and the skill of its aviators.
Flying in the Tupolev ANT-25, the team faced extreme conditions, including frigid Arctic winds, unpredictable weather, and the mental strain of a 62-hour journey. This mission established the Soviet Union as a leader in long-distance aviation and inspired future generations of pilots and engineers.
The Aviators
- Mikhail Gromov: The celebrated flight commander whose leadership and expertise ensured the success of the mission.
- Sergey Danilin: The flight engineer responsible for maintaining the aircraft’s performance under extreme conditions.
- Andrey Yumashev: The navigator and co-pilot, who played a crucial role in charting the perilous route.
Together, these pioneers overcame immense challenges to achieve a feat that captured the world’s imagination.
Philatelic and Cultural Significance
This stamp series is more than a tribute to aviation—it’s a reflection of national pride and technological innovation. The design includes the flight route map, connecting the Soviet Union to the United States through the Arctic, symbolizing a new era of global connectivity. For philatelists, these stamps serve as both artistic treasures and historical artifacts.
Technical Details
- Release Date: April 13, 1938
- Printing Technique: Photogravure
- Denominations:
- 10 Kopecks (Claret)
- 20 Kopecks (Brown-Black)
- 50 Kopecks (Dull Violet)
- Design Features: Portraits of the aviators and a map of their trans-polar flight route.
Why This Set Is Special
The “Second Trans-Polar Flight” stamp series captures the spirit of exploration and human ingenuity. It celebrates not just the aviators but the idea of pushing boundaries and forging new paths. Whether you’re a philatelist, a history enthusiast, or an aviation fan, this series reminds us of the incredible feats humans can achieve with courage and innovation.
Share Your Thoughts!
Do you own this historic set, or do you have a passion for aviation milestones? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
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