Switzerland year 1924 Airmail stamps used Set
In 1929, Switzerland issued a notable set of airmail stamps that have become significant in the history of Swiss philately. These stamps were issued to cater to the growing demand for airmail services, reflecting the increasing importance of aviation in mail delivery.
Switzerland 1929 Airmail Stamps
General Information:
- Date of Issue: The series was issued on July 15, 1929.
- Purpose: To facilitate and promote the use of airmail services within Switzerland and internationally.
Design and Denominations:
The 1929 airmail series consisted of four stamps, each featuring imagery related to aviation and designed by Karl Bickel, a well-known Swiss graphic artist.
- 30 Centimes Stamp:
- Design: Depicts an airplane flying over the Swiss Alps.
- Color: Red.
- Description: This design highlights the challenging yet picturesque landscapes that Swiss airmail services had to navigate.
- 50 Centimes Stamp:
- Design: Features an airplane flying over a valley with mountains in the background.
- Color: Green.
- Description: Emphasizes the role of aviation in connecting remote regions.
- 1 Franc Stamp:
- Design: Shows an airplane soaring above a panoramic view of mountains and lakes.
- Color: Blue.
- Description: Captures the essence of Switzerland’s natural beauty and the modernity of air travel.
- 2 Francs Stamp:
- Design: Depicts a more detailed view of an airplane above the clouds, with the sun shining in the background.
- Color: Brown.
- Description: Symbolizes the advanced capabilities of Swiss aviation technology.
Significance:
- Pioneering Airmail Services: The issuance of these stamps was part of Switzerland’s efforts to expand and improve its airmail services, which were becoming an essential part of postal communications.
- Artistic Value: The designs by Karl Bickel are noted for their artistic merit and technical excellence, making these stamps popular among collectors.
- Historical Context: These stamps were issued at a time when aviation was rapidly evolving, and countries worldwide were beginning to recognize the potential of airmail.
Collecting Information:
- Philatelic Interest: The 1929 Swiss airmail stamps are highly sought after by collectors due to their historical importance, beautiful designs, and the role they played in the development of airmail services.
- Catalog Listings: These stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, often noted for their detailed engravings and attractive designs.
Visual and Artistic Elements:
- Engraving: The stamps were produced using high-quality engraving techniques, typical of Swiss stamps, ensuring detailed and visually appealing images.
- Symbolism: The imagery of airplanes flying over the Swiss Alps and valleys symbolizes progress and the bridging of distances through modern technology.
Legacy:
The 1929 Swiss airmail stamps represent a significant milestone in the history of Swiss postal services. They are celebrated not only for their practical role in facilitating airmail but also for their contribution to philatelic art. Collectors value these stamps for their beauty, historical context, and the story they tell about the early days of airmail in Switzerland.
