Czechoslovakia (1918-93) Country Guide

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Jan, Tue, 2024

Czechoslovakia (1918-93) Country Guide

Czechoslovakia, a nation situated in the heart of Central Europe, emerged as a sovereign state in the aftermath of World War I, born from the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Established on October 28, 1918, with a commitment to democratic ideals, the First Republic of Czechoslovakia became a beacon of stability and progress in the interwar period. The country’s rich history is marked by its resilience during the challenges of the Munich Agreement, Nazi occupation, and subsequent liberation by the Soviet Red Army in 1945. Striding through the twists of the 20th century, Czechoslovakia witnessed political shifts, including the Communist takeover in 1948 and the transformative Velvet Revolution in 1989, ultimately leading to its peaceful dissolution into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993. The legacy of Czechoslovakia endures through its cultural contributions, historical landmarks, and the memories of a nation that navigated the currents of change with both courage and determination

First Republic (1918-1938):
- Established on October 28, 1918, after the end of World War I.
- The first postage stamps of Czechoslovakia were issued in 1918.
- Notable stamps include the Hradčany Issue, depicting Prague Castle, issued in 1920.
The Hradčany Castle stamps portray the iconic castle in Prague, symbolically depicted with the sun rising behind it, signifying the birth of the new state, even though the sun doesn’t actually rise in that position. These stamps, crafted by the renowned graphic designer Alphonse Mucha, an advocate of Art Nouveau residing in Prague, were selected from a pool of more than ten designs. Mucha’s choice of the castle motif was driven by his belief that every nation has its own palladium representing past and future history. He found a powerful interpretation of this symbol in the architectural lines of St. Vitus Cathedral, located near the castle. According to Mucha, there was no other subject more fitting for his design than Hradčany Castle and the surrounding medieval architecture.
Newspaper Stamps

Simultaneously with the issuance of the Hradčany Castle stamps in 1918, two newspaper stamps, designed by Alphonse Mucha, were introduced in denominations of 2h and 10h. Additional values were introduced over time, including 6h, 20h, and 30h in 1919, followed by 5h, 50h, and 100h in 1920. Various design variations and types exist within these stamps. Notably, the 5h denomination, first released in September 1920, holds the distinction of having the largest number of stamps printed, reaching a staggering 3.6 billion. These stamps underwent overprinting for use in East Silesia in 1920, and in 1934, some were overprinted to qualify for a discounted commercial printed matter rate. Additionally, a 2h stamp was overprinted as 5h to supplement the supply of that denomination.
1920 “Czechoslovakia Breaking Chains to Freedom” issue

In the same year, two allegorical sets were released. One depicted a stylized carrier pigeon in six values, often referred to as Dove stamps, while the other featured ten denominations of The Chainbreaker. The latter symbolized the country, portraying a woman breaking free from the chains of bondage. Both sets also come in tete-beche pairs, a result of a booklet printing plate layout suggested by a private company. This company had intended to utilize the gutter for advertising and cover the printing costs. Despite the stamps being printed, the envisioned booklet deal never materialized.
1920-25 “Dove with Letter” issue

The Dove stamps symbolized peace and communication.
1923 “Agriculture & Science” issue
Munich Agreement and Occupation (1938-1945):
- Munich Agreement in 1938 led to the dismemberment of Czechoslovakia.
- Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia was established under German occupation.
- During this period, German occupation stamps were used.
Post-World War II and Communist Era (1945-1989):
- Czechoslovakia was re-established after World War II.
- Communist rule began in 1948.
- Stamps during this era often depicted socialist and industrial themes.
Prague Spring and Soviet Invasion (1968):
- Brief period of political liberalization in 1968 (Prague Spring) was followed by Soviet intervention.
- Stamps from this time may reflect the political turmoil.
Velvet Revolution and Dissolution (1989-1992):
- The Velvet Revolution in 1989 marked the end of communist rule.
- Czechoslovakia peacefully split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993.
Post-Dissolution Period (1993-Present):
- The Czech Republic and Slovakia each began issuing their own stamps.
- Stamps from both countries reflect their respective histories, culture, and achievements.

Collecting Notes

The Masaryk stamps of 1925-27

IMPERFORATE

003 H. (1918 – Sc. #1) – Red Violet.
005 H. (1918 – Sc. #2) – Yellow Green.
010 H. (1918 – Sc. #3) – Rose.
020 H. (1918 – Sc. #4) – Bluish Green.
025 H. (1918 – Sc. #5) – Deep Blue.
030 H. (1919 – Sc. #6) – Bister.
040 H. (1919 – Sc. #7) – Red Orange.
100 H. (1919 – Sc. #8) – Brown.
200 H. (1919 – Sc. #9) – Ultramarine.
400 H. (1919 – Sc. #10) – Purple.

PERFORATE

005 H. (1918 – Sc. #13) – Yellow Green.
010 H. (1918 – Sc. #14) – Rose.
020 H. (1918 – Sc. #15) – Bluish Green.
025 H. (1918 – Sc. #16) – Deep Blue.
200 H. (1919 – Sc. #20) – Ultramarine.

The Masaryk stamps of 1925-27 could provide a collector some challenge as they come in various types and variations. I have added some below and will add photos as time permits.

1918-19 “Hardcany at Prague” issue

Two variations based on the inscriptions.

1. The words “Posta Ceskoslovenska” appear on issues 40h and below as white type on a colored background. (Type I)

2. On higher denominations you will see the type is colored on a white background. (Type II)

1919 “Harcany at Prague” with “cesko-slovenska” inscription issue

These come in three types:

Type II: The sun can be seen over the top of the Cathedral and there is no color in the foliage in the foreground.

Type III: There is no sun behind the Cathedral and the foliage in the foreground is shaded.

Type IV: The background behind the Cathedral is different and the foliage in the foreground has disappeared.

IMPERFORATE

0001 H. (1919 – Type II – Sc. #23) – Dark Brown.
0005 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #25) – Blue Green.
0015 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #27) – Red.
0025 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #29) – Dull Violet.
0050 H. (1919 – Type II – Sc. #30) – Dull Violet.
0050 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #31) – Dark Blue.
0060 H. (1919 – Type III – Sc. #32) – Orange.
0075 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #33) – Slate.
0080 H. (1919 – Type III – Sc. #34) – Olive Green.
0120 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #36) – Gray Black.
0300 H. (1919 – Type III – Sc. #38) – Dark Green.
0500 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #39) – Red Brown.
1000 H. (1919 – Type III – Sc. #40) – Violet, Bluish Violet.

PERFORATE

0001 H. (1919 – Type II – Sc. #41) – Dark Brown.
0005 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #42) – Blue Green.
0010 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #43) – Yellow Green.
0015 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #44) – Brick Red.
0020 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #45) – Rose.
0025 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #46) – Dull Violet.
0030 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #47) – Red Violet.
0060 H. (1919 – Type III – Sc. #50) – Orange.
0120 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #53) – Gray Black.

IMPERFORATE

0010 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #43a) – Yellow Green.
0020 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #45a) – Rose.
0030 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #47a) – Red Violet.
0030 H. (1919 – Type IV – Sc. #47e) – Deep Violet.

The last 4 were never issued imperforate. officially but some were released accidentally and are more scarce than other issues.

The Hradcany, known in English as the Castle District, encompasses the historic area surrounding Prague Castle. Its construction commenced in the 9th Century, and some structures were not fully completed until the early 20th Century.

Key structures within the district include:

Prague Castle (initiated around 870)
Church of the Virgin Mary (commenced around 884)
Basilica of St. George (dating back to around 920)
St. Vitus Cathedral (construction starting around 930)
Various palaces once owned by Bohemian nobility.

Prague Castle holds the distinction of being the largest castle in the world, as recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records. Its interior spans over 750,000 sq. ft., with a length of 1,870 ft. and an average width of 427 ft.

Throughout history, the castle has served as the seat of power for the Kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman Emperors, and the presidents of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic.

The Bohemian Crown Jewels, including the St. Wenceslas Crown created in 1347 for the coronation of King Charles IV, are safeguarded in a concealed room within St. Vitus Cathedral. Reproductions of these jewels are on public display in the royal palace section of Prague Castle, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and regal heritage of the region.