Western Ukraine year 1919 – Vienna Issue MNH stamps

In 1919, Western Ukraine issued a series of stamps known as the “Western Ukrainian National Republic” (WUNR) stamps. These stamps were issued during a period of great political turmoil and conflict in the region, which was part of the larger struggle following the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at the end of World War I. Here’s a brief overview of the context and characteristics of these stamps:

Historical Context

• Western Ukrainian National Republic: The WUNR was established in late 1918 and lasted until July 1919. It encompassed parts of what are now Ukraine and Poland.
• Conflict: The WUNR was involved in conflicts with Poland, which was also asserting control over the region. The Polish–Ukrainian War (1918–1919) significantly influenced the political and social landscape.

Stamps of the WUNR

• Designs: The stamps often featured symbols of Ukrainian statehood, including the trident (tryzub), which is a national symbol of Ukraine. Other designs included allegorical and historical themes.
• Denominations: The stamps were issued in various denominations, often in the local currency of the time.
• Overprints: Some of the stamps issued were overprints of existing Austrian stamps, reflecting the transitional nature of the region’s administration.

Key Issues

1. First Issue (1919): This set included several denominations with designs featuring the trident and other Ukrainian national symbols. These were printed in Lviv and were used in the Western Ukrainian territories.
2. Overprints: Many stamps from the Austro-Hungarian Empire were overprinted with Ukrainian inscriptions and new values to meet postal needs during the period of WUNR’s administration.
3. Provisional Issues: Due to the ongoing conflict and administrative challenges, provisional stamps and overprints were common, often created under urgent conditions to maintain postal services.

Collectibility

• Rarity: Some issues from this period are quite rare and sought after by collectors, especially those in mint condition or with clear postal cancellations from the period.
• Historical Value: These stamps are of great interest not only to philatelists but also to historians studying the tumultuous period of the early 20th century in Eastern Europe.

Notable Stamps

• 10 Hryven Stamp: One of the notable stamps from the series is the 10 hryven stamp, which features an elaborate design with Ukrainian national symbols.
• Overprinted Austrian Stamps: These include Austrian stamps with overprints such as “Posta Ukrainiska” and new values, often created in response to immediate postal needs.

Collecting these stamps provides a fascinating glimpse into the historical context and the national aspirations of the Western Ukrainian National Republic during a brief but significant period in European history.