Australia’s Kangaroo stamps are among the most famous and recognizable stamp issues in the world. These stamps, featuring the iconic marsupial that’s synonymous with Australia, have a rich history that spans several decades.
- Before 1913, each Australian state issued its own stamps. The Kangaroo series marked Australia’s first unified national postage stamp after federation in 1901.
- The first Kangaroo stamp was issued on January 2, 1913, symbolizing the new Commonwealth’s postal unity.
- The central motif is a kangaroo (likely a Red Kangaroo) in profile, set against a map of Australia.
- This design was controversial at the time. Some preferred a portrait of King George V, feeling it more appropriate for a British dominion.
- The original artwork was by Edwin Arnold, but the final engraving was done by Perkins, Bacon & Co. in London.
- Denominations and Colors:
- The initial 1913 issue ranged from ½d (half penny) to £2 (two pounds), one of the highest face values for a stamp at that time.
- Each denomination had a distinct color, helping postal workers and public quickly distinguish values.
- Some famous colors include the 1d (one penny) in red, 2d in grey, and the high-value £1 in grey-blue.
- Watermarks and Varieties:
- One of the joys (and challenges) for collectors is the variety of watermarks used. These include:
- Small Crown and A (1913)
- Large Crown and A (1914-1920)
- Small Crown and Multiple C of A (1926-1930s)
- There are also variations in paper types and perforations, creating a complex field for specialists.
- One of the joys (and challenges) for collectors is the variety of watermarks used. These include:
- Longevity:
- Incredibly, Kangaroo stamps remained in use until the 1960s, with periodic reprintings and some design tweaks.
- This 50-year span makes them one of the longest-running stamp designs, reflecting their popularity and effectiveness.
- High-Value Stamps:
- The high denominations (like the £1 and £2) were rarely used for regular mail. They were primarily for parcels, telegrams, or high-value registered items.
- These high values are particularly prized by collectors due to their rarity and the quality of their engraving.
- Famous Varieties:
- The “Inverted Swan” is a famous error where a £2 stamp was accidentally printed with the kangaroo upside-down. Only one is known to exist.
- Other notable varieties include the “Broken Leg” and “Spencer’s Gulf” flaws on the 1d stamps.
- Philatelic Significance:
- Kangaroo stamps are a cornerstone of Australian and Commonwealth philately.
- They appeal to various collectors: country-specific (Australia), thematic (animals), and those interested in printing techniques.
- The long period of use means collectors can trace changes in paper, watermarks, and printing methods through these stamps.
- Cultural Icon:
- Beyond philately, these stamps played a role in shaping Australia’s national identity. The choice of a kangaroo over a royal portrait was a subtle but significant nod to Australian uniqueness.
The Kangaroo stamps are more than just postage; they’re a chronicle of Australia’s early nationhood, its flora and fauna, and the evolution of its postal services. For collectors, they offer a blend of iconic design, technical variety, and historical significance. Whether it’s a simple used 1d red or a rare £2 with an inverted watermark, each Kangaroo stamp tells a part of Australia’s story.