Centennial stamp

Historic stamps re-issued

There were eight stamps issued in 1888-89 to commemorate the New South Wales Centennial. The stamps were the world's first stated commemorative stamps. Each stamp is inscribed "100 years". Unlike modern commemorative issues, they were not short-term stamps, and remained on long-term sale. The 20 shilling stamp was current from 1888 until 1913, when it was replaced by the Kangaroo and Map stamp.

Jumbo stamp

On the jumbo stamp, the 20 shilling Centennial stamp is depicted in multiple format to represent the full sheet of 50, believed to be unique, held in the National Philatelic Collection. The "specimen" overprint was applied to archival sheets to prevent possible misuse of the stamps for postage.

Designed by Hannah Mattner

The stamp was designed by Hannah Mattner of Ethos, Melbourne who designed the first in the Treasures from the Archives series and the Royal Tour jubilee 2004 stamp. In addition to the gummed stamps for this issue, there is a first day cover, a stamp pack, a sheet of ten gummed stamps and a maximum card.

Stamp in detail

Issue: Australia, 6 September 2005
Stamp size: 105mm x 70mm
Perforation: 14.285 x 14.285
Print: SEP Sprint
Stamp design: Hannah Mattner, Ethos Productdesign

More information

Postage stamps 2005