Aid to the starving Odesa issue series of stamps
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$12.00
Odesa issue Aid to the starving series of stamps
The series of stamps "Help to the starving. Odessa issue" is one of the most famous and at the same time mysterious series of stamps, which is dated 1921-1922. It consists of seven different stamps with denominations in rubles. The purpose of the stamps was to collect funds to help the starving in the city of Odesa, which was under the occupation of the Soviet army at that time. However, there are many questions about their origin, as well as about the true purpose of the issue, which makes this series unique in the history of philately.
WARNING ! The stamps of the presented series have traces of philatelic stickers on the back!
Features of the series:
Number of stamps: 7 pieces
Denominations:
Red - 250 rubles
Blue - 500 rubles
Orange - 750 rubles
Green-gray color - 1000 rubles
Cherry color - 2500 rubles
Brown - 5000 rubles
Green - 10,000 rubles
Types of stamps: Both stamps with and without a tooth are known.
History and origin:
Although the purpose of issuing the stamps was officially stated as relief to the starving, there is much doubt as to whether the stamps were actually officially approved. There are several versions of their origin:
Italian Origin: The stamps were printed in Italy by the Italian Philatelic Association in Venice. However, who was the customer and who organized their distribution is still unknown. There is a version that they were made for sale for philatelic purposes, but were not intended for postal circulation.
Scam or charity: There is speculation that these stamps were created by Italian businessman Marco Fontana to defraud collectors. At the same time, there is an opinion that the customer could be the public organization "Pomgol", which was involved in helping the poor and starving.
Official denials: In 1922, the magazine "Soviet Philatelist" published an article in which it was noted that the Odesa branch of the People's Commissariat of Posts and Telegraphs (NKPT) officially denied the issue of any stamps to help the starving in Odesa. This confirmed the version about the fraudulent nature of the release.
Brand design:
The drawings of the stamps are made in the Art Nouveau style, which was quite typical for that time. They attract attention for their aesthetic appeal and symbolism, making them popular with collectors despite their uncertain history.
Current status:
The series of stamps "Help to the starving. Odesa issue" remains popular among collectors due to its mystery and rarity. Many copies have survived in private collections, often with stickers on the back. Some collectors even have entire sheets of these stamps. Although the stamps were not used in the official postal system, they are of great importance to philately and to the study of the history of charity and fraud in the world of postal issues.
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