In 1934, Cyprus released an exceptional set of definitive postage stamps that beautifully encapsulated the island’s rich cultural heritage and iconic landmarks. This stunning series, designed by Des L. D. Fryer and produced through Recess Waterlow, holds a special place in philatelic history, showcasing significant historical and architectural landmarks of Cyprus.
Overview of the 1934 Stamp Issue
- Release Date: 1st December 1934
- Designer: Des L. D. Fryer
- Printing Method: Recess Waterlow
- Watermark: Mult Script CA (sideways on selected denominations)
- Perforation: 12½
The set consists of 11 values, each depicting a unique scene or monument of Cyprus. The stamps range from the smallest denominations to the highest, offering collectors a wide array of artistic and historical depictions.
Detailed Breakdown of Each Stamp
-
¼pi Ultramarine and Orange-Brown – Ruins of Vouni Palace
Depicts the ancient ruins of Vouni Palace, offering a glimpse into Cyprus’ ancient architecture.- Catalogue Value: £2.25 (mint) / £1.00 (used)
- Rare Variant: Imperforate between vertical pair valued at £55000 and £32000 (mint/used).
-
½pi Green – Small Marble Forum, Salamis
Features the historical ruins of Salamis, emphasizing Cyprus’ Hellenistic past.- Catalogue Value: £4.00 (mint) / £1.00 (used)
- Rare Variant: Imperforate vertical pair valued at £18000 and £20000 (mint/used).
-
¾pi Black and Violet – Church of St Barnabas and St Hilarion, Peristerona
Celebrates the religious heritage of Cyprus through detailed architectural imagery.- Catalogue Value: £4.25 (mint) / £0.50 (used)
- Rare Variant: Imperforate vertical pair valued at £60000.
-
1pi Black and Red-Brown – Roman Theatre, Soli
Illustrates the ancient Roman amphitheatre at Soli, known for its cultural significance.- Catalogue Value: £5.50 (mint) / £1.75 (used)
- Rare Variant: Vertical imperf pair valued at £25000 and £25000 (mint/used).
- Rare Variant: Horizontal imperf pair valued at £21000.
-
1½pi Carmine – Kyrenia Harbour
Displays the picturesque Kyrenia Harbour, an iconic landmark in Cyprus.- Catalogue Value: £6.50 (mint) / £2.00 (used)
-
2½pi Ultramarine – Kolossi Castle
Highlights the majestic Kolossi Castle, once a stronghold of the Knights Templar.- Catalogue Value: £7.50 (mint) / £1.50 (used)
-
4½pi Black and Crimson – St. Sophia Cathedral, Nicosia (Selimiye Mosque)
Represents the architectural fusion in Cyprus’ history, showcasing the transition from church to mosque.- Catalogue Value: £9.00 (mint) / £7.50 (used)
-
6pi Black and Blue – Bayraktar Mosque, Nicosia
This stamp honors one of Nicosia’s historical landmarks, the Bayraktar Mosque.- Catalogue Value: £12.00 (mint) / £25.00 (used)
-
9pi Sepia and Violet – Queen’s Window, St Hilarion Castle
Captures the romantic architectural feature of the medieval St. Hilarion Castle.- Catalogue Value: £23.00 (mint) / £12.00 (used)
-
18pi Black and Olive-Green – Buyuk Khan, Nicosia
Showcases one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in Cyprus.- Catalogue Value: £55.00 (mint/used)
-
45pi Green and Black – Forest Scene, Troodos
Depicts the lush greenery of the Troodos mountain range, highlighting Cyprus’ natural beauty.- Catalogue Value: £120.00 (mint) / £120.00 (used)
Special Features and Variants
- Imperforate Varieties: The set is renowned for its rare imperforate vertical and horizontal pairs. These are highly sought-after by collectors due to their rarity and value.
- Watermark Details: Some values have sideways watermark orientations, where the Crown appears to the left of the CA when viewed from the back.
Catalogue Value Summary
- Complete Set of 11 Stamps: £200.00 (mint) / £200.00 (used)
- Specimen Set of 11 Stamps: £700.00
Collectors’ Insights
This 1934 issue stands as one of the most significant and visually captivating sets in Cypriot philatelic history. It beautifully captures the diverse heritage of Cyprus, from ancient ruins and castles to religious landmarks and natural scenery. The presence of rare varieties, such as imperforate pairs and watermark variations, adds an element of excitement for dedicated philatelists.
Whether you’re an avid collector or a history enthusiast, the Cyprus 1934 definitive stamp set is a treasured piece, offering both artistic beauty and historical depth.