Egypt UAR year 1960 postage stamps Olympic games Rome

Egypt UAR year 1960 postage stamps Olympic games Rome

In 1960, the United Arab Republic (UAR)—the political union between Egypt and Syria—issued a vibrant set of stamps to commemorate the XVII Olympic Games in Rome.

While the stamps are inscribed “U.A.R.,” they are primarily associated with the Egyptian postal administration and were used extensively in Egypt.

1. The Main Commemorative Set

Released on July 23, 1960, this set consists of seven individual stamps, each depicting a different sporting event. The designs are notable for their clean lines and mid-century aesthetic.

2. The Souvenir Sheet (Miniature Sheet)

In addition to the individual stamps, a high-value Souvenir Sheet was issued.

• Face Value: 100 Millièmes (100 M.).
• Design: It features the Cairo International Stadium (then known as Nasser Stadium), which was inaugurated in 1960. It also includes the Olympic rings and the UAR emblem.
• Catalog No: Scott #512, Michel #B3.
• Format: Usually found imperforate (without holes), though perforated versions exist in some specialized collections.

3. Historical Context & Collecting

• The Team: Although the UAR was a union, the vast majority of the 74 athletes who competed in Rome were Egyptian. The team won two medals: a Silver in Wrestling (Osman Sayed) and a Bronze in Boxing (Abdel Moneim El-Guindi).
• Watermarks: Most of these stamps feature the “Multiple U.A.R. and Eagle” watermark.