SHS – Slovenia year 1919 Porto Vienna print 1k/10k stamps set

The 1919 “Chain Breakers” stamps from Slovenia are a fascinating and historically significant issue. This set was released during a tumultuous period following the breakup of the Austro-Hungarian Empire after World War I. Here’s what we generally know about these stamps:

1. Historical Context:
   • After WWI, parts of the former Austro-Hungarian territories, including Slovenia, briefly formed the State of Slovenes, Croats and Serbs (SHS), before joining the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (later Yugoslavia).
   • These stamps were issued during this transitional period, reflecting Slovenia’s aspiration for independence and its emerging national identity.
2. Design – “Chain Breakers”:
   • The central motif of these stamps is a figure (often described as a young man or an allegory of Slovenia) breaking free from chains.
   • This powerful symbolism represents Slovenia’s liberation from Austro-Hungarian rule and its struggle for self-determination.
   • The design is attributed to Slovenian artist Ivan Vavpotič, making these stamps a notable early example of Slovenian graphic art on postage.
3. Overprints:
   • Initially, these stamps were overprinted “SHS” (for the State of Slovenes, Croats and Serbs) on existing Austro-Hungarian stamps.
   • Later, the “Chain Breakers” design was issued with various overprints, potentially including “SHS,” “Država SHS” (State of SHS), or other inscriptions reflecting the changing political situation.
4. Varieties:
   • Due to the rapid political changes and provisional nature of these issues, there are numerous varieties in terms of overprints, paper types, and perforations.
   • These variations make the “Chain Breakers” series a complex and rewarding area for specialized collectors.
5. Denominations and Colors:
   • Without a catalog, I can’t specify exact denominations, but these stamps likely covered a range of postal rates.
   • Colors might have varied by denomination, a common practice to help distinguish values.
6. Philatelic Significance:
   • These stamps are highly prized by collectors of Slovenian, Yugoslav, or Austro-Hungarian area stamps.
   • They’re also sought after by thematic collectors interested in liberty, revolution, or the aftermath of WWI.
   • Their symbolic design and the brief, turbulent period they represent make them more than just postage; they’re miniature historical documents.