The 1930 stamp set from Cyrenaica, a region in Libya, commemorates the 25th anniversary of the Istituto Agricolo Coloniale Italiano (Italian Colonial Agricultural Institute), established in Florence in 1904. This institution was a cornerstone in promoting agricultural development, vocational training, and colonial economic studies. The stamps celebrate the legacy of this pioneering institute during its most active years.
Stamp Design
The five stamps in this set are visually striking, showcasing a neoclassical depiction of a robust male figure with draped garments, symbolizing strength, progress, and agricultural vitality. Each stamp is rendered in different colors with distinct denominations, reflecting its utilitarian purpose in Cyrenaica’s postal system.
Denominations and Colors:
- 50 Centesimi (Brown): A foundational value for local correspondence.
- 1.25 Lire (Blue): Used for interregional mail.
- 1.75 Lire (Green): An intermediate denomination for broader correspondence.
- 2.55 Lire (Purple): For higher-value mail, including international letters.
- 5 Lire (Red): The highest denomination, typically used for parcels or high-value mail.
Historical Context
The Italian Colonial Agricultural Institute was established during the height of Italy’s colonial expansion, focusing on the study and systematization of agriculture in tropical and Mediterranean environments. Its efforts aimed to improve agricultural productivity in Italian colonies, including Cyrenaica, Eritrea, and Somaliland.
Under the leadership of Armando Maugini, the institute flourished during the interwar years, providing critical research on colonial agriculture, training technical experts, and offering vocational education to Italian migrants. By 1938, the institute evolved into the Istituto Agronomico per l’Africa Italiana, reflecting its expanded scope across Africa.
Post-War Evolution
Following the Second World War, Italy lost its colonies, prompting the institute to redirect its efforts. It focused on supporting Italian agricultural migration to Latin America and later shifted toward providing international technical assistance in agriculture. In 1959, the institute was renamed the Istituto Agronomico per l’Oltremare (Overseas Agronomic Institute) and was incorporated under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where it continues to operate.
Collectability
The 1930 Cyrenaica set is a prized collectible among philatelists, not only for its historical significance but also for its artistic design and ties to Italy’s colonial legacy. The stamps provide a lens into Italy’s ambitions during the colonial era and the scientific endeavors that accompanied them.
This stamp set stands as a testament to the interplay between colonial ambitions and scientific progress, encapsulated in a small but significant piece of postal history.