Description
The Australian Two Shillings (2/-) Kangaroo Stamp is one of the most famous and highly collected stamps in Australian philately. It forms part of the Kangaroo and Map Series, which is one of the first stamp issues of the Commonwealth of Australia after the country’s federation in 1901.
Here’s an overview of the Australian Two Shillings Kangaroo Stamp:
Key Features:
- Issued: The Two Shillings Kangaroo stamp was first issued in 1913 as part of the Kangaroo and Map series, designed by Charles W. MacKenzie. The series itself was issued to celebrate the formation of the Commonwealth of Australia.
- Design:
- The Two Shillings (2/-) stamp depicts a red kangaroo in the foreground, standing on the Australian landscape. The kangaroo is a symbol of Australia, and it features prominently on several of the country’s early stamps.
- The background of the stamp features a map of Australia, highlighting the new Commonwealth.
- The stamp’s color is typically reddish-brown, which was consistent across the two-shilling stamps in the Kangaroo series.
- The design was engraved and is known for its detailed illustration, showcasing the kangaroo in the wild.
- Denomination: 2 shillings (2/-), which was one of the higher postage rates during the early years of the Commonwealth. It was typically used for international mail or heavier domestic letters.
- Size: The 2/- Kangaroo stamp was one of the larger stamps in the series, and its proportions made it stand out among other denominations.
- Watermark: The early Kangaroo stamps (including the Two Shillings) were issued with the “Multiple Crown and A” watermark, which is an important identifying feature for collectors. This watermark is often visible when the stamp is held up to the light.
Historical Context:
- Kangaroo and Map Series: The Two Shillings Kangaroo stamp was part of the first definitive series issued by the Commonwealth of Australia, which was newly formed in 1901. The series depicted Australia’s coat of arms, a map of Australia, and various native animals, with the kangaroo being a prominent symbol.
- Post-Federation: The issue of the Two Shillings Kangaroo stamp was the first national stamp series after the federation of the states into the Commonwealth of Australia, so it has strong historical significance.
- The Kangaroo as a National Symbol: The kangaroo is one of Australia’s most iconic symbols, and its use on these early stamps helped reinforce its identity as a newly unified nation.
