USSR Russia year 1923 used stamps cut

USSR Russia year 1923 used stamps cut

The year 1923 was a significant period for Soviet philately, reflecting the early years of the Soviet Union and its efforts to establish a new identity and celebrate its achievements. Here’s an overview of the notable stamps issued by the USSR in 1923:

Historical Context

• Early Soviet Era: The Soviet Union was formally established in 1922, marking the consolidation of Bolshevik power after the Russian Civil War.
• Economic and Political Changes: The early 1920s were marked by efforts to rebuild the economy through the New Economic Policy (NEP) and to promote Soviet ideology.

Key Stamps Issued in 1923

1. First Definitive Series of the USSR (1923-1927)
   • Design: This series included various denominations featuring Soviet symbols such as the hammer and sickle, the star, and workers.
   • Denominations: Varied, including low denominations for everyday use and higher denominations for heavier mail.
     • 1 Kopek: Green
     • 3 Kopeks: Red
     • 5 Kopeks: Brown
     • 10 Kopeks: Dark blue
     • 15 Kopeks: Orange
     • 20 Kopeks: Blue
     • 25 Kopeks: Brown and red
     • 50 Kopeks: Blue and black
     • 1 Ruble: Brown and blue
2. First Anniversary of the Founding of the USSR (1923)
   • Design: This commemorative issue marked the first anniversary of the establishment of the Soviet Union. It featured images of workers, peasants, and Red Army soldiers, emphasizing the unity and strength of the Soviet state.
   • Denominations and Colors: Various denominations, often with intricate and detailed designs.
     • 1 Kopek: Brown
     • 5 Kopeks: Red
     • 20 Kopeks: Blue
     • 50 Kopeks: Green
3. International Philatelic Exhibition in Moscow (1923)
   • Design: To mark the International Philatelic Exhibition held in Moscow, a special set of stamps was issued. These stamps depicted scenes and symbols associated with Soviet achievements and progress.
   • Denominations and Colors: Included a variety of denominations, each with distinct designs.
     • 10 Kopeks: Red and green
     • 15 Kopeks: Blue and black
     • 25 Kopeks: Brown and green
     • 50 Kopeks: Orange and blue
     • 1 Ruble: Brown and purple
4. Labor Day (May Day) Issue
   • Design: This special issue celebrated International Workers’ Day (May Day), a key holiday in the Soviet Union. The stamps often featured workers, factories, and Soviet symbols.
   • Denominations and Colors: Various denominations were issued in vibrant colors to celebrate the occasion.
     • 10 Kopeks: Red
     • 15 Kopeks: Blue
     • 20 Kopeks: Green

Significance and Collectibility

• Historical Importance: These stamps reflect the early years of the Soviet Union and its efforts to promote Soviet ideology and achievements.
• Propaganda Tool: Many of these stamps served as tools of state propaganda, emphasizing the unity, strength, and progress of the Soviet state.
• Philatelic Value: Due to their historical context and early issuance in Soviet philately, these stamps are valuable to collectors.

Collecting Tips

• Condition: Seek stamps in good condition with clear prints, good centering, and minimal damage. The quality of the gum can also affect value.
• Authentication: Ensure authenticity, particularly for rare issues or higher denominations, as forgeries exist.
• Provenance: Stamps with documented provenance or from notable collections may carry a premium.

Legacy

• Cultural Reflection: These stamps provide a window into the early Soviet era, reflecting the political, economic, and cultural changes of the time.
• Philatelic Heritage: They are an essential part of Soviet philatelic history, marking the transition from the Russian Empire to the Soviet state.

In summary, the stamps issued by the USSR in 1923 are significant for their historical context, design, and their role in promoting Soviet ideology. Collectors value these stamps for their depiction of a transformative period in Russian history.

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