Confirmed varieties of 1959 Definitive issue
In 1959, the Soviet Union continued the issuance of the Ninth Standard Series of postage stamps. The series comprised three designs: an engineer-builder, a collective-farm woman, and a steel-worker.
Historical Context
The series was released at a time when Soviet philately used standard-issue stamps not only for postal purposes but also to reflect the ideology of labour and socialist construction. The depiction of different sectors of the workforce was a visual component of this narrative.
Themes & Design:
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The engineer-builder motif symbolizes technical progress and the importance of infrastructure development.
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The collective-farm woman represents agriculture and the role of women in labour in the socialist state.
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The steel-worker image highlights heavy industry and the industrial labour force as foundational to the socialist economy.
Technical Features:
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The stamps were printed using two methods: initially by metallographic printing, later by offset.
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All earlier standard-issue series remained in circulation up to June 1, 1961, giving these issues a prolonged usefulness.
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Approximate size is 18 × 26 mm with either comb-type or linear perforation.
Philatelic Significance:
For philatelists, this series offers a representative example of late Soviet “standard” stamps. Though not a commemorative or special thematic release, its purposeful design and large production make it a noteworthy collectible. The substantial print runs mean many are available, which affects market value.
Conclusion:
The 1959 standard-issue stamp series of the Soviet Union encapsulates socialist themes of labour, industrial and agricultural development, and the role of both men and women in building the nation, all within the framework of a routine postal release.
Postage stamp specifications:
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Print: Offset
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Perforation: Comb 12 : 12½
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Circulation: Mass
Confirmed varieties of the stamps of 1959 Devinitive issue
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color shades
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line thickness