Isle of Man stamps year 1973 Year set MNH

Isle of Man year 1973 stamps Year set MNH

The year 1973 is historically significant for Isle of Man stamps, as it was the year the Isle of Man Post Office gained postal independence and began issuing its own stamps.

The complete Isle of Man 1973 Year Set typically includes all the definitive and commemorative stamps released by the new postal authority.

Key Stamp Issues in 1973:

1. Inauguration of the Isle of Man Post Office / Definitive Issue (Released July 5, 1973):
   • This was the first issue of the independent Isle of Man Post Office.
   • It included a set of 16 definitive stamps ranging from $\frac{1}{2}\text{p}$ to $\text{\textsterling}1$. The designs feature the island’s coat of arms, Manx cats, fishing boats, and other national symbols.
   • A single 15p commemorative stamp was also issued on this date, depicting a Viking landing (commemorating the Viking landing of 938 AD).
2. The 100th Anniversary of Steam Railway (Released August 4, 1973):
   • A set of 4 commemorative stamps.
3. Manx Grand Prix – Golden Jubilee (1923-1973) (Released September 4, 1973):
   • A set of 2 commemorative stamps.
4. Anniversary of Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips (Royal Wedding) (Released November 14, 1973):
   • A single commemorative stamp (usually 25p).

In total, the 1973 Year Set of Postage Stamps (excluding Postage Due issues and booklets) consists of:

• 16 Definitive Stamps
• 1 Inauguration Commemorative Stamp
• 4 Steam Railway Commemorative Stamps
• 2 Manx Grand Prix Commemorative Stamps
• 1 Royal Wedding Commemorative Stamp
• Total: 24 Stamps

Note on Completeness:

The year set for serious collectors may also sometimes include the 8 Postage Due stamps issued in 1973, which would increase the total number of stamps. The most common “Year Set” or annual pack usually refers to the 24 definitive and commemorative stamps listed above.