The 40th anniversary of the USS Legion stamp series — Underground Post 1954 with Additional Denomination(3 stamps)

In 1954, a remarkable series of stamps was released, which became a vivid philatelic manifesto in honor of the 40th anniversary of the creation of the Ukrainian Sich Riflemen Legion (USS). This series not only differed from previous issues in its concept, but also contained a symbolic overprint of an additional denomination, which significantly increased its collector's and historical value. Thanks to this overprint, each stamp went beyond the boundaries of an ordinary postage stamp, becoming a powerful carrier of a national idea and a visual page of the heroic chronicle of the Ukrainian struggle for freedom.

The historical context of this series is deeply rooted in memories of the self-sacrifice and devotion of the riflemen, who became a symbol of national resilience. The stamps not only honored the exploits of the USS Legion, but also emphasized the continuity of the struggle for Ukraine's independence, while demonstrating the mastery of graphic art.

Variety of Images: Description of the Four Stamps of the Series

The collection consists of four exceptional stamps, each of which is a visual time capsule that conveys the majestic spirit of struggle and self-sacrifice:

Stamp 15 + 40 steps: An impressive image of the battle on Mount Makiivka - a key confrontation, where the Sich riflemen showed indomitable strength of spirit. The dynamic silhouettes of the warriors, the tense relief of the mountainous terrain and symbolic elements create the effect of direct presence at the moment of battle.

Stamp 20 + 25 steps: Kyiv, a city with a thousand-year history, reflects the spirit of indomitability. The battles of the OSS in the capital of Ukraine are presented through an expressive composition: the architectural features of Kyiv merge with the figures of the riflemen entering into a decisive confrontation.

Stamp 25 + 20 steps: The November break in Lviv is a moment that determined the fate of the Western Ukrainian People's Republic. A deep palette of contrasts emphasizes the drama of the events, giving the stamp not only documentary but also emotional significance.

Stamp 40 + 15 steps: The symbolic act of passing the flag to the scouts in Regensburg becomes the pinnacle of the concept of this series. The image of the continuity of generations, intertwined with the symbolism of national revival, emphasizes the historical mission of the USS Legion.

Exquisite Artistic Execution and Symbolic Saturation

The artistic design of this series is a true masterpiece of engraving art. Master Mykhailo Kurill embodied in his works not only historical authenticity, but also the emotional charge of events. His stamps create the effect of immersion in the era, allowing each owner of these stamps to feel history by touch.

Design by L. Rykhtytskyi completes the series, including traditional Ukrainian symbols: Archangel Michael as the patron saint of warriors and the Galician lion as an emblem of heroic spirit. The floral ornament that envelops these iconic figures adds elegance and depth to the compositions.

A special role is played by the overprint, which turns ordinary stamps into real historical artifacts, giving them the status of unique elements of philatelic heritage.