6d Australian Kangaroo Stamp 1913

Description

The 6d (Sixpence) Australian Kangaroo Stamp in blue is another iconic issue from the Kangaroo and Map series, which was first released in 1913. This particular stamp, in its blue color, is significant both for its design and the role it played in Australia’s early postal history.

Key Features of the 6d Blue Kangaroo Stamp:

1. Design:
   • The 6d Kangaroo Stamp features an image of an Australian kangaroo in the foreground, symbolizing the country’s unique wildlife. The kangaroo is depicted in a standing or leaping position.
   • In the blue variant, the background of the stamp is a blue color, with a map of Australia in the background. This is characteristic of the Kangaroo and Map series, which aimed to showcase the country’s geography and national identity.
   • The denomination “Sixpence” (6d) is clearly printed on the stamp, and it was used for a variety of postage needs, typically domestic mail.
2. Color:
   • The 6d Blue Kangaroo Stamp is part of the Kangaroo and Map series, and the blue color makes it distinct within the range of other colors used for different denominations in this series.
   • The color blue was chosen for this stamp, and the tone could range from a deep blue to a more muted blue-green, depending on the printing.
3. Historical Context:
   • Issued in 1913: The Kangaroo and Map series was the first set of stamps issued by Australia after its Federation in 1901, marking the country’s postal independence from the British Empire.
   • Sixpence Value: The 6d denomination was designed to cover the cost of domestic postage for letters and parcels. It was an important value for day-to-day mail use at the time.
   • International Context: While the higher-value denominations (like the 5 shilling stamp) were used for international mail, the 6d stamp was more commonly used for domestic purposes within Australia.
4. Printings and Variations:
   • The 6d Blue Kangaroo Stamp came in several printings over the years, and each print run may have subtle variations in the color and quality of the print.
   • There are also variations in the watermark (such as the single watermark or multiple watermark). The watermark would typically be the word “Australia” or the “C of A” (for Commonwealth of Australia), used to deter counterfeiting.
5. Rarity and Collectibility:
   • The 6d Blue Kangaroo Stamp is relatively common compared to other higher-denomination kangaroo stamps (such as the 5 shilling stamp), but collector interest in this stamp is still strong, especially for well-preserved examples.
   • Rare Varieties: The blue 6d stamp is prized by collectors, especially in mint condition (unused) or with specific watermarks. Additionally, printing errors or flaws, such as misprints or color variations, can add significant value to the stamp.
   • Postally Used: Stamps that have been postally used, with clear cancellations, are less valuable than unused examples, but they still hold interest for those interested in postal history.
6. Value:
   • The value of the 6d Blue Kangaroo stamp in the modern market can vary widely depending on factors like condition (mint or used), watermark variety, and rarity of the print. For example, a mint, well-preserved example with the right watermark could fetch a higher price, potentially hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on its condition.
   • Early Printings and Errors: Some of the earlier printings or those with errors are much more valuable. A well-preserved stamp from an early printing with the “C of A” watermark or an unusual misprint would be a much-prized item.