The 1965 Baghdad Fair stamp issue was released to commemorate the 2nd Arab Fair held in Baghdad, Iraq. The event was an essential economic and cultural exhibition, promoting trade and cooperation among Arab nations. This stamp remains an important philatelic collectible, reflecting Iraq’s economic ambitions in the 1960s.
Design & Symbolism
The Fair Emblem stamp features a striking design that represents Iraq’s industrial and agricultural development. The key elements include:
- A gear wheel, representing industrial growth.
- A wheat stalk, symbolizing Iraq’s strong agricultural sector.
- A white ship, reflecting the importance of trade and transportation.
- Two wavy lines, likely representing the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, crucial for Iraq’s economy.
The stamp captures Iraq’s modernization efforts during the 1960s while embracing its economic vision.
Issue Details & Printing
The Baghdad Fair Stamp was issued on October 22, 1965, as part of Iraq’s economic promotional efforts. Here are the technical details:
- Designer: H. Al-Sameraee
- Printer: Pakistan Security Printing Corporation, Ltd.
- Printing Process: Lithography
- Perforation: 13
- Denomination: 10 Fils
Stanley Gibbons Catalogue Pricing (GBP)
The Stanley Gibbons Catalogue (SG) lists this stamp with the following values:
- Mint Condition: £0.75
- Used Condition: £0.45
These values indicate that this stamp is relatively affordable and accessible for collectors. However, its significance in Iraq’s philatelic history makes it an attractive piece for thematic collectors.
Conclusion
The 1965 Baghdad Fair stamp is a remarkable piece that highlights Iraq’s economic aspirations and cultural significance in the Arab world. While it remains a moderately priced issue, its historical context makes it an excellent addition to any Iraqi or Middle Eastern stamp collection.
If you are looking for a classic representation of Iraq’s economic growth in the 1960s, this stamp is a must-have for your collection.