STAMP SUBJECTS AND THE STORIES BEHIND THEM

The choice of subject for a stamp issue is usually met with cynicism from some quarters. Certain collectors ask, does that person or event really deserve the honour of appearing on a stamp? Is this the right time to be highlighting that particular issue? How is that subject relevant to that stamp-issuing nation? All fair points.

This final question could be directed at the 1971 definitive set from Ascension Island, indeed in his latest ‘Making of the Stamp’ article (page 32) Richard Morel asks why the tiny volcanic island in the middle of the South Atlantic Ocean selected the ‘Space Race’ as a subject for its stamps? But as Richard goes on to explain the 88km² island played a vital part in the USA’S efforts to explore space.take a closer look at the story behind the stamps and we often discover fascinating facts that can shed new light on the subject.

One stamp set that is certainly relevant to the country from which it originates, is Greece’s recent ‘Sculptures of the Parthenon’ stamps (page 6), which highlight the ongoing calls for the so-called ‘Marbles of Elgin’ to be taken from the British Museum and returned to Athens. Along with the growing range of stamps reflecting the fighting in Ukraine, and the colourful Pride stamps recently revealed by Royal Mail, the Greek set reminds us just how powerful and pertinent stamps continue to be.

Finally, it may come as a surprise to learn that Muhammad Ali has yet to appear on a USA stamp – surely a wholly appropriate subject for his home nation to celebrate. Now a campaign is hoping to put that right. As the great boxer said himself: ‘I should be a postage stamp, because that’s the only way I’ll ever get licked.’

Matt Hill, Editor Keep in touch. Share your views, stamps and thoughts with us: matthewh@warnersgroup.co.uk

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