SHS Chainbreakers stamps – Verigari was the first postage stamp series of the State of Slovenes, Croats, and Serbs, issued in Slovenia after the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy at the end of World War I. The name of the stamp series is derived from the Slovene word “veriga,” meaning ‘chain,’ and depicts a slave who has broken the chains. The scene symbolizes the freedom of the Slavic peoples from Austria-Hungary. It was designed by the academy-trained painter Ivan Vavpotič, whose model was the gymnast Stane Derganc. The stamp design includes the abbreviated name of the State of Slovenes, Croats, and Serbs written in Serbian Cyrillic and Gaj’s Latin script (“Држава СХС” – “Država SHS”). The stamp design also includes an image that represents a man who has broken the chains enslaving him; he stands in front of a rising sun.
The first stamps of the series were designed in late 1918 in Ljubljana during the short-lived State of Slovenes, Croats, and Serbs and issued on 3 January 1919 after the creation of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes. They were then published in different versions until 1920. In 1925, Vavpotič regretted the choice of the motif because he found it kitschy.
The Chainbreaker stamps, also known as Verigarji, hold a significant place in Slovenian philatelic history. These stamps were issued in 1919 and are considered the first Slovenian stamps.
Origins and Significance:
- The Chainbreaker stamps were introduced in the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (SHS), which later became Yugoslavia.
- They symbolize the breakaway from the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the establishment of an independent Slovenian state.
- The stamps depict a stylized figure breaking free from chains, representing freedom and independence.
- The stamps were issued in various denominations and designs.
- The small format Chainbreakers were printed using lithography and typography and featured different values, including 5 vin, 10 vin, 15 vin, 20 vin, and 25 vin.
- There were also larger format Chainbreakers printed using typography.
Collectability and Value:
- Chainbreaker stamps are highly sought after by collectors due to their historical significance.
- The value of these stamps can vary based on factors such as condition, rarity, and specific varieties.
- Some collectors may focus on plate flaws, paper types, and other details to enhance their collections.
- Prices for Chainbreaker stamps can be found in specialized philatelic price lists and auction catalogs.