Confirmed varieties of Frederic Joliot Curie

​

In 1959, the USSR Post issued a commemorative stamp honoring Frédéric Joliot-Curie, the outstanding French physicist and Nobel Prize laureate. The stamp reflects the importance of scientific discoveries and international cooperation in physics and chemistry. It became part of a series dedicated to prominent scientists worldwide, attracting the attention of both philatelists and science enthusiasts.

​

The standard version of the stamp features a portrait of Joliot-Curie against a background of scientific and radioactive symbols. The image measures approximately 21.2 × 32.2 mm, with a comb perforation of 12½:12. The stamp was printed using phototypy, with a total circulation of one million copies.

​

A particularly interesting feature for collectors is the rare variety of this stamp with a reduced image size. In this version, the portrait and design elements are slightly smaller—20.5 × 31.2 mm—distinguishing it from the standard issue. This subtle difference in size makes the stamp unique for philatelic collections. The variety is highly valued for its rarity and often commands a higher price at specialized auctions. It can appear with or without perforation, and possessing a certificate of authenticity significantly increases its value.

​

Collectors appreciate this stamp for its historical significance and for honoring outstanding scientists and their achievements. The smaller-image variety is less common than the standard issue, and the difference in size enhances its collectible value, making it a sought-after item. The 1959 Soviet stamp “Frédéric Joliot-Curie” with the reduced image remains one of the most striking and interesting finds for philatelists, appealing to those who appreciate both historical and scientific themes as well as unique varieties in their collections.

​

Postage stamp specification:

• Design: N. Kruglov

• Print: Collotype

• Perforation: Comb 12½ : 12

• Circulation: 1 000 000 pcs

​

Confirmed varieties of stamp of Frederic Joliot Curie

​

1. broken "4"