Description
Australian One Shilling (1/-) Kangaroo Stamp
The One Shilling (1/-) Kangaroo stamp is an iconic piece of Australian philately and is part of the Kangaroo and Map Series, the first definitive series issued by the Commonwealth of Australia after its formation in 1901. The stamp itself is a prominent example of Australia’s early postage.
Key Features of the One Shilling (1/-) Kangaroo Stamp:
- Issued: 1913, as part of the Kangaroo and Map series, which was the first definitive stamp issue after Australia’s federation in 1901.
- Design:
- The 1/- Kangaroo stamp features an image of a red kangaroo, which was chosen as one of Australia’s national symbols. The kangaroo is shown in a standing position, and it’s a significant symbol for Australian culture and heritage.
- The background includes a map of Australia, outlining the country’s national borders, and the design incorporates the colorful and intricate engraving typical of the time.
- Denomination: One Shilling (1/-), which was a middle-range value stamp used primarily for domestic mail and less frequently for international mail, depending on the weight and destination.
- Color: The 1/- stamp was typically printed in red, though some variations may exist in shade or color intensity depending on the printing process.
- Watermark: The stamp was issued with the Multiple Crown and A watermark, a characteristic of many early Australian stamps. The watermark can be seen when the stamp is held up to the light, and it is an essential feature for collectors to check for variations (such as inverted watermarks, which are valuable).
Historical Context:
- The Kangaroo and Map Series is historically significant as it was the first stamp set issued by the Commonwealth of Australia after the federation in 1901. The One Shilling Kangaroo was one of the mid-value stamps used for domestic mail within Australia and was commonly used for letters of moderate weight.
- The kangaroo design was meant to showcase a distinctly Australian symbol, and the inclusion of the map of Australia in the background emphasized the new national identity following the unification of Australia’s colonies.
