Paraguay stamps year 1973 – Exploration of Mars

Paraguay stamps year 1973 – Exploration of Mars MSS MNH

In 1973, Paraguay released a colorful and extensive series of stamps dedicated to the Exploration of Mars, specifically commemorating NASA’s Mariner 9 mission. During this era, Paraguay was known for issuing large “topical” sets (stamps focused on popular themes like space, sports, or art) primarily aimed at the international collector market.

1. The 1973 “Exploration of Mars” Series

This set is highly recognized by space philatelists for its vivid artwork and technical depictions of spacecraft.

• Primary Subject: The Mariner 9 probe, which was the first spacecraft to orbit another planet (Mars) in late 1971.
• The Set Composition: The issue typically consists of a series of 10 individual stamps plus a large Souvenir Sheet.
• Key Designs:
  • Depictions of the Mariner 9 orbiter in space.
  • Views of the Martian surface, including craters and the famous Valles Marineris (named after the probe).
  • Diagrams of the probe’s trajectory from Earth to Mars.
  • Portraits of historical figures in astronomy or contemporary space program leaders (common in Paraguayan issues).

2. The Souvenir Sheet (Block 208)

The centerpiece of this collection is the Souvenir Sheet, often cataloged as Michel Block 208.

• It usually features a large, singular high-value airmail stamp embedded in a decorative border that shows the Mariner 9 probe and the red planet in the background.
• “MUESTRA” Overprints: You may often find these stamps with a diagonal overprint that says “MUESTRA” (Specimen). These were distributed for promotional purposes and were not valid for postage, though they are still collected today.

3. Catalog Information

If you are looking to identify or purchase these, here are the standard references:

• Michel Catalog: Numbers 2499–2508 (for the 10-stamp set) and Block 208 (for the souvenir sheet).
• Scott Catalog: Listed under the “Airmail” section (prefixed with C), usually around C360.
• Yvert & Tellier: Numbers Airmail 644–646 and others in the series.