Series of Stamps "35 Years of the First Ukrainian Stamps" by the Underground Post of Ukraine, 1953

In 1953, the Underground Post of Ukraine released a commemorative stamp series to honor the 35th anniversary of the first postage stamps issued by the Ukrainian National Republic (UNR). Designed by artist Yurii Maksymchuk, this series reproduces the early "shahivky" stamps within artistic frames. The series includes five denominations, each distinguished by a unique frame color and symbolic imagery that pays homage to Ukraine's historical stamps.

Denominations and Colors:

• 10 shahiv - dark blue frame
• 20 shahiv - dark green frame
• 30 shahiv - brown-red frame
• 40 shahiv - brown frame
• 50 shahiv - green-gray frame

The series was issued in a limited edition of 7,000 copies and featured images from the UNR’s first stamps in denominations of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 shahiv. At the top of each stamp, the date range "1918-1953" is inscribed, and at the bottom, the phrase "Underground Post of Ukraine" signifies its origins. This series stands as one of the earliest and rarest collections dedicated to Ukrainian postage history.

Detailed Descriptions of Each Stamp

1. 10 Shahiv – The Trident
   The opening stamp, valued at 10 shahiv, displays the iconic trident symbol (tryzub), a national emblem of Ukraine. This vertically oriented stamp features "Ukrainian National Republic" at the top and the denomination in both bottom corners, with the currency name in between. The trident is set against sun rays that extend to the earth, symbolizing hope and renewal. The design is complemented by a traditional floral ornament on either side, emphasizing Ukrainian identity.

2. 20 Shahiv – The Reaper Representing the agrarian roots of Ukraine, the 20 shahiv stamp centers on a portrait of a peasant, symbolizing strength and resilience. Facing the viewer with his left side, the peasant wears a traditional shirt and a hat adorned with wheat ears, holding a scythe over his shoulder. His proud moustache and the trident beside him affirm his Ukrainian heritage. "Ukrainian National Republic" tops the stamp, while the denomination sits below.

3. 30 Shahiv – The Ukrainian Woman At the heart of the 30 shahiv stamp is the profile of a young Ukrainian woman, her head adorned with a floral wreath, a traditional symbol of purity and connection to the land. Enclosed within an octagonal frame, the upper corners feature two tridents, while floral ornaments decorate the lower corners. The denomination occupies the top corners, with the currency in between, and "Ukrainian National Republic" below.

4. 40 Shahiv – Trident Emblem The 40 shahiv stamp showcases an intricate, three-dimensional trident in the center, encased within an oval on a white background. A floral wreath surrounds the trident, representing Ukraine's rich cultural heritage. The upper part of the stamp bears "Ukrainian National Republic," while the lower corners hold the denomination and a pair of crossed postal horns on the right, signifying communication and unity.

5. 50 Shahiv – Half Hundred The highest denomination in the series, the 50 shahiv stamp, focuses on the numeral "50" at its center, encircled by a wreath of floral ornaments. The affiliation with the UNR is marked at the bottom, underlining the significance of this value in commemorating the legacy of Ukrainian postage.

the first Ukrainian stamps "Steps"

This rare, historically rich series serves as both a tribute to Ukrainian independence efforts and an homage to the enduring symbols and spirit of the Ukrainian National Republic. Through these intricate designs, each stamp encapsulates the resilience, cultural pride, and identity of Ukraine