Australia Post is to commemorate Anzac Day 2019 with a series of stamps focusing on the theme of peace a century ago.
Philatelic Manager with Australia Post, Michael Zsolt said 1919 was the year in which official World War I peace treaties were signed and celebrations, such as Peace Day, occurred throughout the British Empire.
“These beautifully designed stamps depict covers from two historical souvenir programs from 1919 Anzac Day events,” Mr Zsolt said.
“The programs highlight the focus on peace in Anzac Day commemorations that year, both at home and abroad, and will be of special significance to history buffs, collectors, and the general public alike.”
Designed by the Manager of the Australia Post Design Studio, Lynette Traynor, the domestic base-rate ($1) stamp features the Anzac Memorial Day 1919 souvenir program published by the Victorian Branch of the Returned Soldiers and Sailors League.
The cover artwork features a figure based on the Roman Goddess of Peace and incorporates both the dark skies of war and the sunny skies of peace.
The $3 international stamp features the Anzac Day 1919 souvenir program for members of allied forces at a depot in Rouelles, France.
The cover image portrays the gratitude of the French people for the valiant efforts of Australians during World War I.
The artwork is by artist John C Goodchild (1898–1980) who served as a stretcher bearer in the Royal Australian Medical Corps in World War I and was an official Australian war artist during World War II.
