A Tribute to Global Unity and Athletic Excellence
On July 12, 1948, Monaco released a stunning series of stamps to commemorate its participation in the Summer Olympics held in Wembley, London. Featuring various sports and athletes in action, this set is a testament to Monaco’s dedication to the Olympic spirit and the celebration of human achievement. Combining artistry with functionality, the set includes both postage and airmail stamps, making it a versatile and significant issue for philatelists.
The Stamps and Their Designs
Postage Stamps (Highlighting Summer Sports)
- 50c Turquoise-Green – Hurdling
- Design: Depicts a sprinter in motion, capturing the speed and intensity of track events.
- Message: Celebrates athletic endurance and competition.
- 1f Lake – Running
- Design: A discus thrower in mid-action, symbolizing strength and precision in athletics.
- Message: Highlights the skill and discipline required in field sports.
- 2f Greenish Blue – Discus Throwing
- Design: A hurdler clearing an obstacle, embodying the resilience and agility of Olympic athletes.
- Message: Reflects the challenges athletes overcome in their pursuit of excellence.
- 2f50 Scarlet – Basketball
- Design: Features basketball players in action, symbolizing teamwork and athleticism.
- Message: Celebrates the camaraderie and skill inherent in team sports.
- 4f Slate – Diving
- Design: Shows a diver poised for a dive, with Monaco’s coastline in the background.
- Message: Combines the grace of aquatic sports with Monaco’s maritime heritage.
Airmail Stamps
- 5f + 5f Blackish Brown – Rowing
- Design: Features a rowing team in action, emphasizing coordination and endurance.
- Message: Highlights the synergy and strength of water sports.
- 6f + 9f Violet – Skiing
- Design: A skier navigating a snowy landscape, with cable cars in the background, representing winter sports.
- Message: A nod to the versatility of the Olympics, celebrating both summer and winter games.
- 10f + 15f Carmine – Tennis
- Design: A tennis player mid-swing, embodying precision and power.
- Message: Highlights the individual skill and focus required in competitive sports.
- 15f + 25f Blue – Yachting
- Design: Features sailboats racing along the Mediterranean, with Monaco’s stunning coastline in the backdrop.
- Message: Celebrates Monaco’s maritime traditions and its affinity for sailing.
Historical Context
The 1948 Olympics marked the first games held after World War II, symbolizing global recovery and unity through sports. Monaco’s participation in these games, reflected through this beautifully designed stamp series, highlights the principality’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and athletic excellence.
The inclusion of both summer and winter sports in the series speaks to the universality of the Olympic spirit. With a mix of individual and team sports, the set showcases the diverse talents and disciplines that define the Games.
Philatelic Significance
- Artistic Excellence:
- Designed by renowned engravers including Gandon, Ouvré, and Mazelin, the stamps capture the dynamism of each sport with intricate details.
- Diverse Themes:
- The combination of postage and airmail stamps, along with the inclusion of summer and winter sports, makes this set unique and comprehensive.
- Collector’s Appeal:
- The wide range of denominations and sports themes attracts collectors interested in Olympic memorabilia, thematic collections, or Monaco’s philatelic history.
Technical Details
- Release Date: July 12, 1948
- Printing Technique: Recess printing
- Designers/Engravers: Gandon, Ouvré, Mazelin, Piel, and others
- Perforations: 13
Why This Set Matters
Monaco’s 1948 Olympic Games stamp set is more than a philatelic issue—it’s a celebration of human determination, grace, and resilience. Released during a pivotal moment in history, the set captures the essence of the Olympic spirit and Monaco’s dedication to excellence in sports and culture.
Have You Seen This Set?
Do you own this stunning Olympic Games set or have a favorite stamp among its designs? Share your stories in the comments below—we’d love to hear how this series inspires you!
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