36
AUSTRALIAN IMPRESSIONS 2005 – 2014 Australia Post’s “Limited Edition” Stamps David Mallen Australian Stamp Variations

Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

  • Upload
    asvcat

  • View
    338

  • Download
    14

Embed Size (px)

DESCRIPTION

Australia Post’s “Limited Edition” Stamps (Updated February 2016)

Citation preview

Page 1: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

AUSTRALIAN IMPRESSIONS

2005 – 2014

Australia Post’s “Limited Edition” Stamps

David Mallen Australian Stamp Variations

Page 2: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

1

Australian Impressions 2005 – 2014

Australia Post’s “Limited Edition” Stamps

Introduction It all began in 2005. On 10th November that year Australia Post released a range of expensive “limited-edition” products. They called it their “Impressions” range and published a special catalogue showing all the “unique gifts and collectables” available. A lot of the products didn’t even contain stamps. One item, a replica Commonwealth Games baton, was priced at $1995! Selling sports memorabilia and coins is not really related to Australia Post’s core business of providing postal services. It is just intended to separate you from your money!

Australia Post has been doing it ever since. November has become known as “Stamp Variations Month” because many of the “Impressions” items contain special formats or variations of previously-issued stamps. Often the product description did not list the stamps included. This forced collectors to buy the product. In some cases the stamps were no different from those issued earlier in the year thus causing the collector to waste money. On-line stamp forums, such as www.stampboards.com, and Stamp News were often the only source of detailed information about each product.

The format of the variations has been quite innovative. It includes special sheets, stamps with special foiled or flocked images, gold foil stamps, stamps on coins and golf balls, different minisheets, fully- and semi-imperforate stamps and reprints of decimal and pre-decimal stamps. (The influence of the ‘marketing department’ was also evident in the ‘psychological pricing’, as many ended in 95c!) The editor of one popular catalogue published in USA calls this stuff “spew” and said Australia Post leads the world in this regard! It is probably one of the main reasons “one of every Australian mint stamp” collectors have stopped collecting Australian decimal stamps1. Most stamp dealers do not stock these expensive special variations and they are quite scarce.

I have summarised each year’s “Impressions” releases that contained new mint Australian stamp variations. A table showing costs is at the end of each year’s summary. The quantity and face value of the stamps are those of mint Australian stamps only. I have excluded the Annual Mint and CTO Collections, Souvenir Stamp Sheets, products containing postmarked stamps and products that do not contain a new stamp variation.

The difference between the price of the product and the face value of the stamps, I call “the cost of packaging”. It is the cost of the books, picture frames, wooden boxes, coins and plastic sleeves, etc. that one puts in the rubbish bin after removing the stamps and putting them in one’s album. (Some stamps were not printed on paper, so it also includes the cost of the material on which they were printed.) Australia Post calls it “profit”. From a stamp collector’s point of view, I just call it a “rip-off”!

Collectable Stamps As a pre-cursor to the 2007 “Impressions” release, Australia Post updated their General Post Guide in October 2007. In this update they declared a new category of stamps: “Collectable Stamps”. These were special stamps that were deemed “not valid for postage”.

Examples include: An individual fully- or semi-imperforate stamp cut out from its surround. A stamp with the integrated tab removed. A stamp with a superseded country or state name. A stamp with a superseded currency value.

This immediately classified over 60 previously-issued “postage” stamps as Collectable Stamps. They were previously valid for postage. For example the imperforate 5c and 30c stamps cut out from Australia’s first ‘Captain Cook’ minisheet issued in April 1970 can no longer be used for postage. (Note that whole imperforate minisheets remain valid for postage.)

From 2007 onwards there were many Collectable Stamps released, especially those made of silver and gold foil.

Page 3: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

Manyalreadproduwas tmost “Impr

To obhave

y of the “Imdy been issucts from prthe 2013 $1expensive

ressions” ca

btain all thespent over $

mpressions” ued during revious yea1000 Colonproduct wa

atalogue. Ju

Ye

20202020202020202020

Tot

Australi

Year

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Totals Note: *Only producThe mint andThe face valu

e stamp vari$11,000 to o

products arthe year.

ars were alsonial Heritagas the 2011ust what eve

Aust

ear Pr

St005 006 007 008 009 010 011 012 013 014 tals

ian ImpreNo. of

Products1 0 5 8 9

12 8

15 13 24 96

cts that contaid CTO annual ue of pre-decim

iations for yobtain $175

re not relateA few prodo shown. Te Collection1 Year of tery stamp c

ralian Imroducts with tamps N

9 25 27 40 28 33 40 56 44 44

346

essions : N

s* No. o

Stamp100

166178166198188114249376

1645

ined new mintcollections an

mal stamps ha

your album 50 face-valu

2

Statistics

ed to stampducts were The most exn. It contathe Rabbitcollector wa

mpressionsProducts

with No Stamps

17 26 32 54 51 53 56 43 59 54

445

New Stamof ps

Face Vof Sta

$5$

$1$24$1$1$1$2$2$3

5 $17

t Australian stnd single SSSas been conve

from the fiue of stamps

s

s at all. Solisted twice

xpensive proained 4 mingold proof

ants!

s : 2005 –

s

TotalNo. of

Produc26 51 59 94 79 86 96 99

10398

791

mp VariatiValue amps “P50 0 32 43 29 66 36 84 80 30

750

tamp variations have been e

erted to decima

irst 10 years.

ome producte in the samoduct conta

nisheets withf coin set p

– 2014

f cts

Total Pof A

Prod$41$86$57

$143$229$151$165$137$108$141

$126

ions : 200Cost of

Packaging” $100

$0 $280 $359

$1163 $1372 $977

$1583 $1913 $1754 $9501

ns are listed. xcluded. al currency.

s of “Impre

ts listed in tme cataloguaining a newth a face vapriced at $3

Price All

ducts 99

608 745 307 967 130 504 785 828 119

6192

05 – 2014

Price

$150 $0

$412 $602

$1292 $1538 $1113 $1867 $2193 $2084

$11251

essions” pro

the cataloguue! Occasiow stamp varalue of $17.3525 in the

oducts you w

ue had onally riation . The

e 2010

would

Page 4: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

3

Annual Collection Specials In 2000 and from 2004 Australia Post has included a special item with its Annual Collection of mint stamps. These and other annual collections are also listed in the “Impressions” catalogues.

Annual Collection Sheetlets / Minisheets

Year Item Face Valueof Stamps

2000 Australian Olympic Gold Medalists & Opening Ceremony sheetlet of 17 x 45c stamps.

$7.65

2004 Australian Olympic Gold Medalists sheetlet of 17 x 50c stamps. $8.50

2005 Australian Parrots sheetlet of 5 x 50c stamps in an ‘X’ format with 4 tabs depicting feathers.

$2.50

2006 The Queen’s 80th Birthday sheetlet of 4 x 50c stamps in a ‘+’ format with 5 tabs depicting the Portrait of Queen Elizabeth by Pietro Annigoni.

$2.00

2007 Australian Botanic Gardens sheetlet of 5 x 50c stamps in an ‘X’ format with 4 tabs depicting a leaf.

$2.50

2008 Australian Olympic Gold Medalists sheetlet of 14 x 50c stamps. $7.00

2009 Species at Risk (Joint Territories issue) sheetlet of 4 x 55c Norfolk Island ‘Green Parrot’ stamps with 5 tabs in a ‘+’ format depicting a close-up of the parrot.

$2.20

2010 Fishes of the Reef sheetlet of 4 x 60c stamps. 2 stamps were in a se-tenant pair; the other 2 were singles.

$2.40

2011 Flood Relief sheetlet of 5 x 60c ‘charity’ stamps. (This was the first release of these stamps as gummed perforated stamps.)

$3.00

2012

Olympic Gold Medalists (7) / Paralympian of the Year (1) sheetlet of 8 x 60c stamps. Olivia Newton-John Cancer & Wellness Centre Appeal (1) / ANZUS (1) imperforate minisheet of 2 x 60c gummed stamps. (This was the first release of these 2 stamps as imperforate stamps.)

$6.00

2013 A minisheet containing two 60c stamps of a design similar to the personalised stamps issued at the 2013 World Stamp Expo in May.

$1.20

2014 ‘Concession Stamp 2014’ perforated minisheet. (This was the first release of these 2 stamps as a gummed se-tenant pair.)

$1.20

Page 5: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

4

Annual Collection Sheetlets / Minisheets

2000 2004 2005

2006 2007 2008

2009 2010 2011

(Imperforate)

2012 2013

2014

Page 6: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

Treas(Price

sures from = $149.95. F

OSD = 10FDI of re

10 x $5 N Individua Certificat Engraved Limited

Treasures fimperforat

On Thprodureleas

the ArchivFV of stamps =

0th Novembemaining 40NSW 20/- Sally numberte of authend plaque Edition = 1

Prod

from the Arte stamp she

51 prodbeen revariatio 2006 =

hursday 10th

ucts. The prsed only one

ves framed = $50)

ber 2005. 00 imperforapecimen im

red “xxx/ 50nticity

100

duct

rchives frameet

ducts were ieleased earlon. (See ‘A

= “The calm

h Novemberroducts were contained

imperforat

ate sheets =mperforate st00”

Imp

med

Totals

included in ier in the ye

Annual Colle

before the

5

2005

r 2005 Austre only avail

a mint Aus

te stamp sh

= 10th Januartamp sheet

pressions 2

No. of Stamps

10

10

2006

the 2006 “Iear. Only thection Spec

storm”.

tralia Post rlable by phostralian stam

heet:

ry 2006

2005

Face Valof Stamp

$50

$50

Impressionshe Annual Mcials’ above.

eleased its fone or mail

mp variation

ue ps

C“Pa

0.00

0.00

s” range. MMint Collect.)

first range oorder. Of t

n.

Cost of ackaging”

$99.95

$99.95

Many were ption contain

of “Impressthe 26 produ

Price

$149.95

$149.95

products thaned a stamp

ions” ucts

5

at had

Page 7: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

6

2007

On Monday 5th November Australia Post released its 2007 range of “Impressions” products. Releasing variations of previously issued stamps had arrived! The products were only available by phone or mail order. To supplement this release they also issued a sheet of 48 imperforate Landmarks collectable stamps in minisheet format on 14th November. This sheet was only available by telephone lottery and was the final issue of the year. Most of the previously-issued stamps were microdated with the “2007” year code in the image.

Two special prestige booklets were included in the range: ‘Behind the Stamp’ and ‘Cricket in Australia’.

The details below are a summary of my article in January 2008 Stamp News.

Behind the Stamp prestige booklet: (Price = $19.95. FV of stamps = $5.52)

This prestige booklet presented “10 fascinating stories about Australian stamps”. It gave details of some stamp issuing highlights, such as the first stamp, the first miniature sheet, ‘instant’ stamps and Queen’s birthday stamps. Each story was illustrated by a stamp or minisheet on 8 pages of gummed stamps. These pages contained 9 postage stamps, 17 perf and imperforate collectable stamps and 2 imperforate collectable 4 x 3d minisheets = 34 stamps in total. A footer on specific pages indicated which stamps were Collectable Stamps but was missing from some pages of imperforate stamps by mistake. Every stamp was different from the original, particularly in perforation, image and size. All stamps were microdated with the “2007” year code in the image, except the 3d Kookaburra imperforate minisheet stamp.

Some of the special variations were “firsts” for Australia Post: e.g. Decimal & pre-decimal se-tenant pairs, stamps from two different issues as an imperforate se-tenant pair.

Behind The Stamp – Reprints (5th November 2007)

Stamp Original Issue

Date 1d Kangaroo & Map 2nd January 1913 3d Kookaburra 29th October 1928 2/- Olympics 1st December 1954 6d Yellow-tailed Thornbill 19th August 1964 5c Yellow-tailed Thornbill 14th February 1966 10c Australia Post 1st July 1975 10c Telecom Australia 1st July 1975 22c Queen Elizabeth 21st April 1980 24c Christmas 1983 14th September 1983 37c Living Together – Postal Services 17th February 1988 41c Thinking of You 7th February 1990 43c Thinking of You 3rd September 1990 45c Ian Thorpe 18th September 2000

Page 8: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

7

2007 (Contd.) Cricket in Australia prestige booklet: (Price = $14.95. FV of stamps = $9.77)

Cricket was featured on 19 stamps from 10 issues between 1974 and 2007. This prestige booklet presented the stories behind each of these stamps and the stories were illustrated by gummed stamps from the 10 issues contained in 7 pages. These pages contained 14 postage stamps and 5 imperforate collectable stamps. Two unique pages contained both perforated and imperforate stamps on the same page. The face value of the 19 stamps was $9.77. Every stamp was different from the original. All stamps were microdated with the “2007” year code in the image.

Cricket in Australia – Reprints (5th November 2007)

Stamp Original Issue

Date7c Non-Olympic Sports – Cricket 24th July 1974 18c Test Cricket Centenary – Wicketkeeper

9th March 1977

18c Test Cricket Centenary – Batsman 18c Test Cricket Centenary – Fieldsmen 18c Test Cricket Centenary – Non-strike Batsman 18c Test Cricket Centenary – Bowler 45c Test Cricket Centenary – Batsman’s end of pitch 35c Sporting Personalities – Victor Trumper 18th February 1981 $1 Australia’s Bicentenary – Joint Issue with the UK (Sport) 21st June 1988 70c Sports (Series 1) – Cricket 13th February 1989 45c Centenary of Sheffield Shield Cricket – Bowler

15th October 1992 $1.20 Centenary of Sheffield Shield Cricket – Batsman 45c Australian Legends (Sir Donald Bradman) – Portrait

23rd January 1997 45c Australian Legends (Sir Donald Bradman) – Cover Drive 45c Sir Donald Bradman Memorial Issue – Portrait

13th March 2001 45c Sir Donald Bradman Memorial Issue – Cover Drive 50c Sports Treasures – Sir Donald Bradman’s Baggy Green 8th March 2005 50c Australia Wins The Ashes 2006-07

16th January 2007 $1.85 Australia Wins The Ashes 2006-07

Page 9: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

8

2007 (Contd.) SAS folder: (Price = $79.95. FV of stamps = $5)

10 x 50c sheetlet of gold embossed stamps Uncirculated $1 coin Limited Edition = 2000

50 Years in Space: (Price = $99. FV of stamps = $5)

Blast Off ! minisheet with the 5 x 50c & 1 x large $1 stamps Special 100 x 65mm numbered 50c Sputnik minisheet Lenticular $1 silver proof coin Limited Edition = 1000

Landmarks imperforate sheets: (Price = $99 per pane. FV of stamps per pane = $53.40)

Released on 14th November via telephone lottery Left and right panes available – maximum = one of each per customer Twelve imperforate collectable minisheets per pane 4 stamps (50c, 50c, $1 & $2.45) per minisheet in the special 90 degree format Each half sheet numbered in silver Limited Edition = 2000 left panes + 2000 right panes

Impressions 2007

Product No. of Stamps

Face Value of Stamps

Cost of “Packaging” Price

Behind the Stamp (Issue 1) prestige booklet

34 $5.52 $14.43 $19.95

Cricket in Australia prestige booklet 19 $9.77 $5.18 $14.95SAS folder 10 $5.00 $74.95 $79.9550 Years in Space folder 7 $5.00 $94.00 $99.00Landmarks imperforate sheets (2 panes) 96 $106.80 $91.20 $198.00

Totals 166 $132.09 $279.76 $411.85Note: The face value of pre-decimal stamps has been converted to decimal currency.

Page 10: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

9

2008

This year’s products were released in mid- to late-November. The main feature was a second ‘Behind the Stamp’ prestige booklet. Only 8 products contained stamp variations. The details below are a summary of my article in February 2009 Stamp News.

Behind the Stamp (Issue 2) prestige booklet: (Price = $19.95. FV of stamps = $5.95) This was the second ‘Behind the Stamp’ booklet. It contained 6 pages of stamps – 3 with perforated stamps and 3 with imperforate copies of the same stamps – a total of 22 stamps. 10 stamps were reprints of pre-decimal issues. 12 stamps were reprints of decimal stamps. All were very different from the original issues. All 22 stamps contained a microdate ‘2008’ year code. The imperforate 45c Polly Woodside stamp had an integrated tab on the left.

Behind The Stamp (Issue 2) – Reprints (14th November 2008)

Stamp Original Issue

Date 1d Australia Armed Forces 15th July 1940 1½d Opening of Parliament House 9th May 1927 5d Dame Nellie Melba 20th September 1961 1/- Olympic Games, Melbourne 31st October1956 2/- Olympic Games, Melbourne 31st October 1956 15c Christmas 1977 31st October 1977 20c Aboriginal Art 29th September 1971 36c First Fleet Departure – Convicts 13th May 1987 45c Bradman – Portrait 23rd January 1997 45c Polly Woodside + tab 19th March 1999 $1 Sheep – Corriedale 27th February 1989

Aviation minisheet pack: (Price = $15.95. FV of stamps = $8)

Minisheet containing 4 x $2 A380 stamps (perf 13.9 x 14.6) with gloss red embellishment

Limited Edition = 5000

Page 11: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

10

2008 (Contd.) Baden Powell pack: (Price = $24.95. FV of stamps = $8)

Papua New Guinea minisheet Uruguay minisheet Portugal minisheet and stamp Minisheet with 4 x $2 Scouting stamps (perf 13.9 x 14.6) Embroidered World Scout badge Limited Edition = 1000

Lest We Forget (WW1) folder: (Price = $99. FV of stamps = $4.50)

Released on 14th November Imperforate “90th Anniversary” minisheet with a se-tenant

strip of 2 pairs of 50c Lest We Forget: ANZAC Day stamps. (It was previously issued with perforated stamps on 3rd November in the special ‘Australia and War’ commemorative pack.)

Imperforate “Remembrance” minisheet with a se-tenant strip of five 50c Lest We Forget: ANZAC Day stamps

Minisheets were numbered in gold Special $1 gold coin Limited Edition = 1000

Donald Bradman folder: (Price = $89.95. FV of stamps = $6.50)

Released on 14th November Sheetlet of 10 x 45c Bradman Memorial stamps. (Same as the

original 2001 issue.) Numbered sheetlet of 4 x 50c Bradman’s Baggy Green stamps.

(Originally issued in March 2005. No ‘2008’microdate.) $5 Bradman coin Limited Edition = 750

Page 12: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

11

2008 (Contd.) Megafauna print frame: (Price = $139.95. FV of stamps = $4.40)

Released on 19th November Imperforate minisheet containing

4 x 50c & 2 x $1.10 stamps Large print of the original

artwork Limited Edition = 500

Dinosaurs prestige booklet: (Price = $13.95. FV of stamps = $13.75)

Released on 19th November Titled: “from small things big things grow” 4 pages containing previously released stamps:

- 1993 Dinosaur Era: 4 x 45c, 75c & $1.05 - 1997 Prehistoric Animals: 5 x 45c - 2005 Creatures of the Slime: 5 x 50c & $1 - 2008 Megafauna: 4 x 55c & 2 x $1.10

The 1993, 1997 & 2005 stamps were microdated with the ‘2008’ year code

Aviation imperforate sheet: (Price = $99 per pane. FV of stamps per pane = $96)

Released on 25th November via telephone lottery 12 minisheets containing a block of 4 x $2 imperforate

A380 gloss red stamps

Impressions 2008

Product No. of Stamps

Face Value of Stamps

Cost of “Packaging” Price

Behind the Stamp (Issue 2) prestige booklet

22 $5.95 $14.00 $19.95

Aviation minisheet pack 4 $8.00 $7.95 $15.95Baden Powell pack 4 $8.00 $16.95 $24.95Lest We Forget (WW1) folder 9 $4.50 $94.50 $99.00Donald Bradman folder 14 $6.50 $83.45 $89.95Megafauna print frame 6 $4.40 $135.55 $139.95Dinosaurs prestige booklet 23 $13.75 $0.20 $13.95Aviation imperforate sheet (2 panes) 96 $192.00 $6.00 $198.00

Totals 178 $243.10 $358.60 $601.70Note: The face value of pre-decimal stamps has been converted to decimal currency.

Page 13: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

12

2009 The ‘Behind the Stamp’ prestige booklet continued this year with Issue 3. It again contained pre-decimal stamps and decimal stamps and minisheets with many variations from the original issues. The ‘Celebrating 200 Years’ Collection was the most expensive product costing $750. This year also saw the release of Australia’s first imperforate self-adhesive stamp. The details below are a summary of my articles in January and February 2010 Stamp News.

Behind the Stamp (Issue 3) prestige booklet: (Price = $19.95. FV of stamps = $8.71) The third booklet in the ‘Behind the Stamp’ series contained 8 pages of stamps – 4 with perforated stamps and 4 with imperforate copies of the same stamps – a total of 40 different stamps and minisheets. The pre-decimal stamps were quite different from the originals. The Dinosaur minisheets are slightly larger than the original. The 9c ‘overprint’ on the 8c Opal stamp was a ‘simulated’ overprint. All stamp images were microdated with the “2009” year code. The imperforate 41c Cycling stamp is Australia’s first full imperforate self-adhesive stamp!

Behind The Stamp (Issue 3) – Reprints (23rd November 2009)

Stamp Original Issue

Date 1d red King George V 8th December 1913 1d green Queen Elizabeth 10th May 1937 2½d John Shortland 8th September 1947 3½d Christmas 1957 6th November 1957 4c 150 Years of Banking 5th April 1967 7c Metric Conversion - Length 7th March 1973 7c Gemstones – Agate 11th July 1973 9c on 8c Gemstones - Opal 16th October 1974 41c Sports Series - Cycling 16th May 1990 4 x 45c, 75c & $1.05 Australia’s Dinosaur Era (minisheet)

1st October 1993

Page 14: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

13

2009 (Contd.) Gold-foil Songbirds: (Price = $99.95. FV of stamps = $12.10)

Released on 2nd November 4 paper stamps, identical to the original 9th September issue 4 gold-foil stamps. Simulated perforation (10.0 x 10.2) and no gum on the

back. Etched image similar to the designs of the paper stamps Limited Edition = 1000

Classic Toys – Cyclops: (Price = $19.95. FV of stamps = $2.20)

Released on 18th November A minisheet containing a block of 4 ‘Cyclops Pedal Car’ stamps. It was

identical to the page in the prestige booklet issued on 25th September, without the page number.

Kookaburra folder: (Price = $99.95. FV of stamps = $3)

Released on 23rd November Minisheet with 4 x 20c 1978 ‘Kookaburra’ National Stamp Week stamps, identical to the original 25th

September 1978 issue. Minisheet with 4 x 55c 2009 ‘6d Kookaburra’ Australia’s Favourite Stamps. It is identical to the page in

the prestige booklet issued on 26th June 2009. The stamps in this new minisheet are identical to the original gummed sheet stamps, not the prestige booklet stamps.

Limited Edition = 750 Stargazing imperforate sheet: (Price = $99. FV of stamps = $65.60)

Released on 25th November via telephone lottery 16 minisheets containing a strip of three (55c, $1.45 & $2.10) imperforate stamps Limited Edition = 750

Celebrating 200 Years Collection: (Price = $750. FV of stamps = $23.10)

Released on 27th November via telephone lottery Minisheet with 4 x 55c ‘£2 Kangaroo & Map’ intaglio-printed stamps. Minisheet with 5 x 55c (a pair and a strip of 3) ‘Australia’s Favourite

Stamps’ Self-adhesive sheetlet of 13 x 55c ‘Australia’s Favourite Stamps’ Sheetlet of 10 x 55c ‘200 Years’ stamps Sheetlet of 10 x 55c ‘Everyday People’ stamps Limited Edition = 300

Legends of the Screen pack: (Price = $49.95. FV of stamps = $2.20)

Released on 27th November Silver-foiled minisheet of the four 55c ‘portrait’ stamps Limited Edition = 500

Page 15: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

14

2009 (Contd.) Classic Toys – Barbie: (Price = $139.95. FV of stamps = $5.50)

Released on 27th November Silver-foiled sheetlet containing 10 x 55c ‘Barbie’ stamps with a silver image of Barbie’s head in the top

right corner of each stamp. This was repeated in the top right and bottom left corners of the pink selvedge.

Limited Edition = 500 Film-lovers minisheet pack: (Price = $12.95. FV of stamps = $6.60)

Released on 3rd December Four special minisheets:

- 4 x 55c portrait stamps (without the foil). - 4 x 55c Geoffrey Rush portrait stamps. - 2 x 55c “For Every Occasion – Map of Australia” stamps with

tabs of Errol Flynn. - 2 x 55c “For Every Occasion – Map of Australia” stamps with

tabs of Chips Rafferty.

Impressions 2009

Product No. of Stamps

Face Value of Stamps

Cost of “Packaging” Price

Behind the Stamp (Issue 3) prestige booklet

30 $8.71 $11.24 $19.95

Gold-foil Songbirds 8 $12.10 $87.85 $99.95Classic Toys - Cyclops 4 $2.20 $17.75 $19.95Kookaburra folder 8 $3.00 $96.95 $99.95Stargazing imperforate sheet 48 $65.60 $33.40 $99.00Celebrating 200 Years Collection 42 $23.10 $726.90 $750.00Legends of the Screen pack 4 $2.20 $47.75 $49.95Classic Toys - Barbie 10 $5.50 $134.45 $139.95Film Lovers minisheet pack 12 $6.60 $6.35 $12.95

Totals 166 $129.01 $1162.64 $1291.65Note: The face value of pre-decimal stamps has been converted to decimal currency.

Page 16: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

15

2010

12 “Impression” products contained mint stamp variations in 2010. They were released in both November and December. The most common price was $89.95 which bore little relationship to the stamp content. One product even included $20 “cash back”! The “Packaging” (pictured before it was dumped in the rubbish bin) cost $1309 – $20 = $1289. This year’s “new” variation was the Stamplet. It was $1289 worth of “Packaging” a small minisheet containing a single stamp with a tab on the top!

The details below are a summary of my article in February 2011 Stamp News. Melbourne Cup presentation folder: (Price = $395. FV of stamps = $17.79)

Released on 20th December and included a pair of white gloves! Sheetlet containing three 4 x 60c blocks of 4 of the same stamp Sheetlet containing a vertical strip of 4 gold-foiled 60c Cup stamps with

large integrated tabs on the left. Semi-imperforate stamps with a small elliptical hole on the left side.

Gold-numbered minisheet containing 60c Cup stamp and a se-tenant strip of 3 x 60c stamps

Bart Cummings minisheet containing a se-tenant pair of 2 different 60c Bart Cummings stamps from the 2007 Australian Legends issue

Americain minisheet containing a vertical pair of 60c Cup stamps 6 ‘previous winners’ stamps identical with the (original issue): 5d Archer

(1960), 45c Rising Fast (2002), 45c Might and Power (2002), 50c Phar Lap (1978), 55c Peter Pan (1978) & $1 Phar Lap’s Racing Silks (2005)

60c silver ‘mint no gum’ Melbourne Cup stamp attached to an envelope. The stamp was not cancelled.

150th Melbourne Cup 50c coin An image of the painting ‘The Greatest Race Never Run’ Limited Edition = 500

Page 17: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

16

2010 (Contd.) Melbourne Cup First Day Covers: (Price = $179.90. FV of stamps = $1.20)

2 First Day Covers, one with a 60c silver and the other with a 60c gold ‘mint no gum’ Melbourne Cup stamp. The stamps were 2mm wider than the original paper versions and had a 12.9 x 12.7 perforation. They were not cancelled.

Limited Edition = 5000 (silver) and 500 (gold) Melbourne Cup & Commonwealth Coinage imperforate half sheets: (Price = $109.95 for 2 panes of each. FV of stamps = $54.60)

Released on 24th November via telephone lottery 9 large Melbourne Cup imperforate minisheets (165 x

90mm) containing 60c Cup stamp and a se-tenant strip of 3 x 60c stamps

10 large Commonwealth Coinage silver-foiled and embossed minisheets (109 x 73mm) containing 55c & $2.75 se-tenant pair

Limited Edition = 500 left panes + 500 right panes of each

Commonwealth Coinage wallet: (Price = $89.95. FV of stamps = $3.30)

Imperforate minisheet containing 55c & $2.75 se-tenant pair overprinted with the 1910 Coat of Arms in gold

Special $1 coin Limited Edition = 500

Darwin Defenders: (Price = $89.95. FV of stamps = $3)

Large numbered minisheet (154 x 104mm) with 45c, 2 x 75c & $1.05 ‘Australians Under Fire’ stamps

2010 microdate on each stamp Limited Edition = 500

Kokoda Trail minisheet: (Price = $89.95. FV of stamps = $1.10)

Small minisheet (77 x 63mm) containing a se-tenant pair of the 55c Wounded Soldiers and “Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels” & 55c Kokoda Veterans stamps

Limited Edition = 1000

Page 18: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

17

2010 (Contd.) National Service stamplet pack: (Price = $15.95. FV of stamps = $6.60)

55 x 55mm ‘stamplet’ containing a single digital printed 60c stamp with a tab on the top and a small selvedge.

10 x 60c sheetlet of stamps.

National Service presentation box: (Price = $129. FV of stamps = $6)

10 x 60c sheetlet of stamps with a gold foil logo in the top right corner and a gold serial number in the bottom selvedge.

Aeronautical License wallet: (Price = $49.95. FV of stamps = $2.90)

Pearl-embellished minisheet with 2 x $1.45 John Duigan stamps Great Australian Railway Journeys gold foil set: (Price = $99. FV of stamps = $7.50)

3 x 55c & $2.10 stamps 3 x 55c (perf 10.2 x 10) & $2.10 (perf 9.5 x 9.5) gold foil stamps Limited Edition = 750

Emergency Services gutter strip: (Price = $89.95. FV of stamps = $6)

10 x 60c stamps in ‘gutter strip’ format with 5 high gloss embellished stamps (the first, third and fifth stamps along the top and the second and fourth along the bottom) and 5 embellished logos in the gutter. The serial number of the accompanying $20 note was printed on the right selvedge.

2008 uncirculated $20 polymer note. Macquarie Bicentenary presentation pack: (Price = $89.95. FV of stamps = $2.20)

4 x 55c huge minisheet (270 x 100mm) Special $1 coin

Page 19: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

18

2010 (Contd.)

Impressions 2010

Product No. of

Stamps Face Value of Stamps

Cost of “Packaging”

Price

Melbourne Cup presentation folder 31 $17.79 $377.21 $395.00Melbourne Cup FDCs 2 $1.20 $178.70 $179.90Melbourne Cup & Commonwealth Coinage imperforate half sheets (2 panes of each)

112 $109.20 $110.70 $219.90

Commonwealth Coinage wallet 2 $3.30 $86.65 $89.95Darwin Defenders 4 $3.00 $86.95 $89.95Kokoda Trail minisheet 2 $1.10 $88.85 $89.95National Service stamplet pack 11 $6.60 $9.35 $15.95National Service presentation box 10 $6.00 $123.00 $129.00Aeronautical Licence Wallet 2 $2.90 $47.05 $49.95Great Australian Railway Journeys gold foil set

8 $7.50 $91.50 $99.00

Emergency Services gutter strip + $20 polymer note

10 $6.00 $83.95 $89.95

Macquarie Bicentenary presentation product

4 $2.20 $87.75 $89.95

Totals 198 $166.69 $1371.76 $1538.45

Page 20: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

19

2011

2011 saw a new way to collect the yearly issue of stamps – The Multisheet. This sent se-tenant block and pair collectors into panic but at least the single stamp collector can now wait until the end of the year to purchase the Commemoratives. The following list and details of each product were taken from a copy of the 2011 “Impressions” catalogue. I did not purchase and examine the content of these products. They were available from 1st November.

Mythical Creatures imperforate half sheets: (Price = $85 per pane. FV of stamps per pane = $21.60)

Released on 24th November Left and right ‘half sheet’ panes available Six 5 x 60c & $1.20 imperforate minisheets per pane One minisheet was 3D (3D glasses included) Each pane was numbered Limited Edition = 500 left panes + 500 right panes

100 Years of the Navy folder: (Price = $129. FV of stamps = $6)

Released on 8th December Gold embellished 10 x 60c sheetlet of RAN stamps Perth Mint Navy coin Limited Edition = 300

Air Force Aviation folder: (Price = $129.95. FV of stamps = $12)

Released on 6th December Four minisheets with a block of 4 stamps, 2 x 60c, $1.20 & $3.

Each minisheet has a different single stamp perforated with 2 semi-imperforate stamps and 1 fully imperforate stamp. All stamps are embellished and the $3 is also embossed.

One minisheet with a block of 4 stamps, 2 x 60c, $1.20 & $3. All stamps perforated and embellished and the $3 is also embossed.

Limited Edition = 150

Remembrance Day presentation folder: (Price = $395. FV of Australian stamps, excluding Stamp medallion = $2)

Released on 18th December Remembrance Day stamps from Australia, United Kingdom and New

Zealand including individually numbered minisheets Minisheet with 2 x 50c ‘Playing The Last Post’ from Lest We Forget:

Anzac Day issue (16th April 2008) Minisheet with 50c ‘War veteran & child’ & 50c

‘Veterans marching’ from Lest We Forget: Anzac Day issue (16th April 2008)

Rare and moving letter facsimiles Sound Chip recording of The Last Post Remembrance poppy Stamp medallion Reproduction of Recruiting Posters Limited Edition = 350

Page 21: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

20

2011 (Contd.) The President’s Cup souvenir stamp pack: (Price = $9.45. FV of stamps = $9)

15 x 60c sheetlet of embossed and embellished ‘The Presidents Cup’ Golf stamps

Silver foil text and graphics in the selvedge

Commemorative Stamps multisheets: (Price = $89.95. FV of stamps = $60)

Released on 15th December Two sheetlets of commemorative stamps – one with 38 portrait

stamps and one with 27 landscape stamps Many of the stamps differ from the originals

Limited Edition = 500 Bush Babies Postal and Numismatic set: (Price = $159.95. FV of stamps = $2.35)

Released on 23rd November $2.35 Koala miniature sheet 5 PNCs with foiled postmarks Limited Edition = 300

Kingfisher stamp and coin set: (Price = $29.95. FV of stamps = $2.35)

Released on 23rd November $1.20 Kingfisher imperforate miniature sheet.

(Stamp originally issued 26th October 2010) Kingfisher coin Limited Edition = 300

Impressions 2011

Product No. of

Stamps Face Value of Stamps

Cost of “Packaging”

Price

Mythical Creatures imperforate half sheets (2 panes)

72 $43.20 $126.80 $170.00

100 Years of the Navy folder 10 $6.00 $123.00 $129.00Air Force Aviation folder 20 $12.00 $117.95 $129.95Remembrance Day presentation folder 4 $2.00 $393.00 $395.00The President’s Cup souvenir stamp pack 15 $9.00 $0.45 $9.45Commemorative Stamps multisheets 65 $60.00 $29.95 $89.95Bush Babies Postal and Numismatic set 1 $2.35 $157.60 $159.95Kingfisher stamp and coin set 1 $1.20 $28.75 $29.95

Totals 188 $135.75 $977.50 $1113.25

Page 22: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

21

2012

22 special minisheets were the main variation item in 2012. The Bathurst collection cost $499 just to get the two $1.20 minisheets. It was unusual to find a minisheet with a 37c stamp originally issued in 1987. The stamp was microdated “2012” so is different from the original.

There was one exceptional item released in 2012: The Remembrance Day Coloured Coin PNC released on 16th November. The minisheet on the envelope was only available in this product. It contained a single 60c ‘Rising Sun Badge 1991-’ embossed stamp from the set issued on 17th April. The stamp was cancelled with an embellished cancellation. A separate mint embossed stamp or minisheet were not released.

The following list and details of each product were taken from a copy of the “Impressions” 2012 Catalogue. I did not purchase and examine the content of these products.

Diamond Jubilee imperforate stamp sheet: (Price = $110. FV of stamps = $103.25)

35 x 60c & $2.35 imperforate non-embellished minisheets Limited Edition = 500

Inland Explorers special edition minisheet collection: (Price = $39.95. FV of stamps = $7.20)

Two 2 x 60c & 2 x $1.20 imperforate minisheets One printed on gummed paper One printed on non-gummed paper made from rock Limited Edition = 500

Olympics Golden Heroes stamp set: (Price = $199. FV of stamps = $8.40. FV of gold stamps = $2.40)

Gold versions of the June (60c Road to London) and July (60c, $1.60 & $2.35) 2012 Olympic stamps

Beijing Olympics Gold Medalists combined sheetlet Folder with an Australia Post seal Golden Heroes 2008 book by Harry Gordon

Bathurst boxed set: (Price = $129.95. FV of stamps = $6)

Gold embellished sheetlet of 10 x 60c stamps Medallion and grill badge Limited Edition = 250

Bathurst collection: (Price = $499. FV of stamps = $2.40)

50 Years of Bathurst imperforate minisheet (60c Davison's Ford & 60c Ingall's Holden)

King of the Mountain imperforate minisheet (2 x 60c Brock's Torana)

History of Bathurst and map of the track V8 medallion in the cover Fastest lap ever - graphs and images King of the Mountain tribute Peter Brock Trophy Image Images & winner statistics Record of official magazine covers from each year Greatest Race Never Driven print fold out Bathurst Greatest Trading Cards

Limited Edition = 200

Page 23: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

22

2012 (Contd.) Bathurst stamp pack: (Price = $30.95. FV of stamps = $30)

Two sheets 20 x 60c stamps with tabs One sheet 10 x 60c with tabs Cars from 1963 – 2012 on the tabs

State Bowling stamp and badge set: (Price = $129.95. FV of stamps = $1.80)

Numbered and embellished minisheet First day cover Se-tenant pair of stamps (60c + $1.20) Badges - Bowls Australia and 2012 World Championships Limited Edition = 300

Waterbirds gold-foiled stamps: (Price = $99. FV of gold-foil stamps = $2.40. FV of stamps = $2.40)

4 x 60c gold foiled stamps 4 x 60c stamps

Stamp and Coin sets: (Price = $139.80. FV of stamps = $3.17)

$1.20 Major Mitchell’s Pink Cockatoo (1993) imperforate minisheet 50c Grey-headed Flying-fox (2007) imperforate minisheet 37c Crimson Rosella (1987) imperforate minisheet $1.10 Laughing Kookaburra (2005) imperforate minisheet Microdated stamps Coin illustrating each animal Limited Edition = 250

Australian Zoos minisheet collection: (Price = $129.95. FV of stamps = $19.80)

One 7 x 60c minisheet with flocking effect on the surround Six 4 x 60c imperforate minisheets One 2 x 60c ‘Tiger’ imperforate minisheet Individually numbered folder Limited Edition = 500

Special Panda collection: (Price = $59.95. FV of stamps = $2.40)

4 x 60c embellished imperforate minisheet Souvenir cover Medallion cover Limited Edition = 300

Page 24: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

23

2012 (Contd.) Australian Ballet stamp and coin folder: (Price = $99.95. FV of stamps = $6)

10 x 60c silver foiled stamp sheetlet Sheetlets individually numbered Royal Australian Mint coin Ballet shoe charm Limited Edition = 300

Road Trip Australia special minisheets: (Price = $29.95. FV of stamps = $11.60)

Two 3 x 60c, $1.65 & $2.35 imperforate minisheets (one plain, one foiled) Limited Edition = 500

Fred Hollows Stamp and Coin Folder: (Price = $79.95. FV of stamps = $1.05)

Special minisheet - 60c Fred Hollows Medical Doctors stamp (2012) + 45c Fred Hollows Celebrating Medical Science stamp (1995 with 2012 microdate)

Fred Hollows medallion Limited Edition = 200

Commemorative Stamps multisheets: (Price = $89.95. FV of stamps = $71.45)

Two sheetlets of commemorative stamps – one with 39 portrait stamps and one with 49 landscape stamps

Many of the stamps differ from the originals Limited Edition = 500

Impressions 2012

Product No. of Stamps

Face Value of Stamps

Cost of “Packaging” Price

Diamond Jubilee imperforate stamp sheet 70 $103.25 $6.75 $110.00Inland Explorers special edition minisheet collection

4 $7.20 $32.75 $39.95

Olympics Golden Heroes stamp set 18 $13.55 *$185.45 $199.00Bathurst boxed set 10 $6.00 $123.95 $129.95Bathurst collection 4 $2.40 $496.60 $499.00Bathurst stamp pack 50 $30.00 $0.95 $30.95State Bowling stamp and badge set 4 $1.80 $128.15 $129.95Waterbirds gold-foiled stamps 8 $4.80 *$94.20 $99.00Stamp and Coin sets 4 $3.17 $136.63 $139.80Australian Zoos minisheet collection 33 $19.80 $110.15 $129.95Special Panda collection 4 $2.40 $57.55 $59.95Australian Ballet stamp and coin folder 10 $6.00 $93.95 $99.95Road Trip Australia special minisheets 10 $11.60 $18.35 $29.95Fred Hollows stamp and coin folder 2 $1.05 $78.90 $79.95Commemorative Stamps multisheets 88 $71.45 $18.50 $89.95

Totals 114 $284.47 $1582.83 $1867.30* Some stamps printed on gold foil.

Page 25: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

24

Page 26: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

Colon

Worl

Bank

Holey

Histo

nial Herita

Three 2 x One $5 m Single pr Colonial Order by

– one pe Limited

ld Stamp E

6 x $10 d 6 x $10 d Limited

knote minis

$3.20 min 2 x $3.20 Individua Limited

y Dollar an

$3.60 num creating

2 comme Limited

oric Buildin

4 x 60c G 4 x 60c G 4 x 60c Q 4 x 60c M Minishee

stamps an Each min Limited

More sThe cos$1000 j The folcatalog

age Intaglio

x $2 minisheminisheet rinting plateHeritage mtelephone l

er customerEdition = 1

Expo minish

daily minishdaily minishEdition = 3

sheets: (Pric

nisheet (pap0 minisheetsally numberEdition = 2

nd Dump p

mbered and2 semi-imp

emorative mEdition = 2

ngs minishe

GovernmentGovernmentQuorn RailwMaryborouget with a se-nd the wordnisheet numEdition = 2

pecial minist to buy thejust to get o

llowing list gue. I did no

o Collection

eets

e medallion

lottery r

100

heet collect

heets (mint) heets (foiled300

ce = $159.95.

per embosses (gold foil)red 250

resentation

d embellisheperforate stamedallions

250

eet collectio

t House, Tast House, Weway Station,gh Railway -tenant blocds “Historic

mbered

250

sheets this ye “Impressi

one special m

and details ot purchase

n: (Price = $1

ion: (Price =

d postmark)

FV of stamp

ed and foile

n set: (Price

ed minisheeamps

on: (Price =

smania minestern Austr, South AusStation, Vick of 4 of theBuildings”

25

2013

year. 49 in ions” variatiminisheet v

of each proe and examin

1000. FV of s

= $149.95. FV

ps = $9.60)

ed)

= $69.95. FV

et with ‘dum

$49.95. FV o

nisheet ralia minishstralia minisctoria minise above 60c

” embossed

all. Two roions rose ab

variation.

oduct was tane the conte

stamps = $17)

V of stamps =

V of stamps =

mps’ remove

of stamps = $1

heet sheet heet c

ound ones anbove $2000

aken from thent of these

= $60)

$3.60)

ed

12)

and two printhis year. O

he 2013 “Improducts.

nted on goldOne produc

mpressions”

d foil. ct cost

Page 27: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

26

2013 (Contd.) Railway Stations collection folder: (Price = $69.95. FV of stamps = $2.40)

4 x 60c numbered imperforate minisheet Souvenir cover and fridge magnet Souvenir cover and ticket Limited Edition = 300

Christmas Embellishment pack: (Price = $49.95. FV of stamps = $17)

2 x 55c, 60c & $1.70 gummed sheet stamps Four blocks of 4 of these stamps (self-adhesive

and embellished) Bush Babies PNC collection – Series 1 & 2: (Price = $299. FV of stamps = $7)

$2.35 minisheet (originally released in 2011 “Impressions”) $4.65 minisheet (numbered and gold foiled) 10 PNCs

Limited Edition = 150 Dinosaurs minisheet collection: (Price = $89.95. FV of stamps = $19.20)

$3.60 embossed perforated minisheet $3.60 embossed semi-imperforate minisheet Four $2.40 digitally printed imperforate minisheets Two $1.20 digitally printed imperforate minisheets Limited Edition = 200

Road Trip minisheet collection: (Price = $99.95. FV of stamps = $44) Series 1 (18 September 2012):

3 x 60c, $1.65 & $2.35 minisheet printed on foiled paper

Three 4 x 60c minisheets 4 x $1.65 minisheet 4 x $2.35 minisheet

Series 2 (2 July 2013): 5 x 60c minisheet printed on foiled paper Five 4 x 60c minisheets

Limited Edition = 200 Road Trip wallet: (Price = $39.95. FV of stamps = $6)

Five 2 x 60c imperforate minisheets Limited Edition = 300

Australian Legends of Music folder: (Price = $24.95. FV of stamps = $6)

Two $3 numbered circular gummed imperforate minisheets with a varnish finish

Limited Edition = 300

Page 28: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

27

2013 (Contd.) Commemorative Stamps multisheets: (Price = $89.95. FV of stamps = $76)

Three sheetlets of commemorative stamps – two with 27 portrait stamps each and one with 26 landscape stamps

Many of the stamps differ from the originals

Limited Edition = 500

Impressions 2013

Product No. of Stamps

Face Value of Stamps

Cost of “Packaging” Price

Colonial Heritage Intaglio Collection 7 $17.00 $983.00 $1000.00World Stamp Expo minisheet collection 6 $60.00 $89.95 $149.95Banknote minisheets 6 $9.60 *$150.35 $159.95Holey Dollar and Dump 2 $3.60 $66.35 $69.95Historic Buildings minisheet collection 20 $12.00 $37.95 $49.95Railway Stations collection folder 4 $2.40 $67.55 $69.95Christmas Embellishment pack 20 $17.00 $32.95 $49.95Bush Babies (Series 1 & 2) 2 $7.00 $292.00 $299.00Dinosaurs minisheet collection 32 $19.20 $70.75 $89.95Road Trip minisheet collection 50 $44.00 $55.95 $99.95Road Trip wallet 10 $6.00 $33.95 $39.95Australian Legends of Music folder 10 $6.00 $18.95 $24.95Commemorative Stamps multisheets 80 $76.00 $13.95 $89.95

Totals 249 $279.80 $1913.65 $2193.45* Some stamps printed on gold foil.

Page 29: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

28

2014

This year’s “new look” catalogue was titled: “Celebrating the Moment & Preserving The Past”. Of the 98 products listed, 24 contained new mint Australian stamp variations at a cost of just over $2000. The prices of 19 of these products were “psychological prices” ending in 95c. The most expensive product was the WW1 Commemorative Album at a cost of $249.95 for just $19.60 worth of Australian stamps. The most expensive stamp was the imperforate 3c Corroboree Frog in a special minisheet costing $34.95.

WW1 Commemorative Album 1914 (Price = $249.95. FV of Australian stamps = $19.60)

Five 2 x 70c digitally-printed numbered minisheets with vertical pairs of the ‘Centenary of WW1: 1914’ stamps

Four 2 x 70c digitally-printed numbered minisheets with vertical pairs of the ‘Centenary of ADF’ stamps

Sheetlet with 2 se-tenant strips of the five ‘Centenary of WW1: 1914’ stamps

70c & $3.50 Cocos (Keeling) Islands ‘HMAS Sydney’ minisheet

Sheetlet of 10 New Zealand stamps 6 United Kingdom stamps Postage Paid envelope with foil-postmarked ‘Troops

Departing’ stamp Book, photograph and posters Limited Edition = 250

The Centenary of ADF stamp and lapel pin set (Price = $99.95. FV of stamps = $5.60)

8 x 70c numbered sheetlet of 2 joined se-tenant strips of 4 stamps. (Red-foiled poppies on top strip. Gold-foiled crests overprinted on bottom strip.)

Hat badges and lapel pin Limited Edition = 250

Centenary of Military Aviation and Submarines pack (Price = $89.95. FV of stamps = $1.40)

Released in December 2 x 70c embellished minisheet 3 blank First Day Covers Limited Edition = 100

100th Anniversary of First Air Mail flight re-enactment collection (Price = $159.95. FV of stamps = $6.60)

70c & $2.60 gold foil minisheet 70c & $2.60 embellished minisheet Maxicards, PNC, postcard and airmail labels Limited Edition = 250

Page 30: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

29

2014 (Contd.)

Kangaroo & Map and King George V stamp and coin set (Price = $199. FV of stamps = $10.70)

Released in December Numbered minisheet with $10 Kangaroo & Map and red 70c King

George V se-tenant pair 1d red Kangaroo & Map stamp-coin 1d red King George V stamp-coin Limited Edition = 150

Bush Ballads collection (Price = $129.95. FV of stamps = $8.40)

Four 2 x 70c minisheets with a vertical pair of stamps One embellished minisheet with a block of 4 x 70c stamps 4 Banjo medallions A blank First Day Cover Limited Edition = 250

Open Gardens minisheet collection (Price = $99.95. FV of stamps = $17.50)

Five minisheets with a block of 4 of the same 70c stamp One gold-numbered sheetlet of 5 x 70c imperforate stamps with a

‘laser-cut’ leaf design in the selvedge (pictured) Limited Edition = 300

Floral emblems prestige booklet (Price = $29.95. FV of full colour stamps = $26.50)

Three pages each with a block of 4 stamps in full colour. Each page was followed by 4 (black, yellow, magenta & cyan) transparent plastic pages showing the print process colour separation of the stamps.

1. $3.50 ‘Sturt’s Desert Pea’ 2. $1.40 ‘Cooktown Orchid’ 3. 70c ‘Golden Wattle’

One page with a se-tenant block of 70c ‘Tasmanian Blue Gum’, 70c ‘Waratah, 70c ‘Common Heath’ & $2.10 ‘Kangaroo Paw’ in full colour

Limited Edition = 500

Kookaburra minisheet and gold coin set (Price = $89. FV of stamps = $0.36)

Numbered minisheet with a 1986 36c Kookaburra “2014” microdated imperforate stamp

Gold medallion Limited Edition = 100

Kangaroo minisheet and gold coin set (Price = $89. FV of stamps = $0.36)

Numbered minisheet with a 1986 36c Kangaroo “2014” microdated imperforate stamp

Gold medallion Limited Edition = 100

Koala minisheet and gold coin set (Price = $89. FV of stamps = $0.36)

Numbered minisheet with a 1986 36c Koala “2014” microdated imperforate stamp

Gold medallion Limited Edition = 100

Page 31: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

30

2014 (Contd.)

Things that Sting minisheet collection (Price = $89.95. FV of stamps = $25.20)

Six minisheets with a block of 4 of the same 70c stamp Embossed minisheet with a se-tenant block of 6 x 70c stamps Original minisheet with a se-tenant block of 6 x 70c stamps Limited Edition = 300

Southern Lights exclusive minisheet pack (Price = $19.95. FV of stamps = $8.40)

Circular minisheet with 2 x 70c & 2 x $1.40 se-tenant tête-bêche block of 4 stamps

Circular minisheet on silver holographic foil with 2 x 70c & 2 x $1.40 se-tenant tête-bêche block of 4 imperforate stamps

Unlimited Edition

Ulysses Butterfly minisheet and coin set (Price = $34.95. FV of stamps = $0.50)

Numbered minisheet with a 2003 50c Butterfly “2014” microdated imperforate stamp

Multicoloured medallion Limited Edition = 200

Leichhardt’s Grasshopper minisheet and coin set (Price = $34.95. FV of stamps = $0.50)

Numbered minisheet with a 2003 50c Grasshopper “2014” microdated imperforate stamp

Multicoloured medallion Limited Edition = 200

Corroboree Frog minisheet and coin set (Price = $34.95. FV of stamps = $0.03)

Numbered minisheet with a 1982 3c Frog “2014” microdated imperforate stamp

Multicoloured medallion Limited Edition = 150

Orangutan minisheet and coin set (Price = $34.95. FV of stamps = $0.60)

Numbered minisheet with a 2012 60c Orangutan “2014” microdated imperforate stamp

Multicoloured medallion Limited Edition = 150

Asian Elephant minisheet and coin set (Price = $34.95. FV of stamps = $1)

Numbered minisheet with a 1994 $1 Elephant “2014” microdated imperforate stamp

Multicoloured medallion Limited Edition = 150

Page 32: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

31

2014 (Contd.)

Sumatran Tiger minisheet and coin set (Price = $34.95. FV of stamps = $0.60)

Numbered minisheet with a 2012 60c Tiger “2014” microdated imperforate stamp

Multicoloured medallion Limited Edition = 150

Royal miniature sheet collection (Price = $149.95. FV of stamps = $13)

Original minisheet with a se-tenant pair of 60c & $2.60 Royal Christening stamps

Original minisheet with a se-tenant pair of 70c & $2.60 Royal Visit stamps

Gold foil minisheet with a se-tenant pair of 60c & $2.60 Royal Christening stamps

Gold foil minisheet with a se-tenant pair of 70c & $2.60 Royal Visit stamps

Limited Edition = 300

Special Occasions imperforate sheet (Price = $99. FV of stamps = $67.20)

24 imperforate minisheets with 4 x 70c ‘Pinwheel Fireworks’ stamps in a special 90° se-tenant layout

Limited Edition = 500

Special Occasions pinwheel minisheet pack (Price = $49.95. FV of stamps = $11.20)

4 minisheets with 4 x 70c ‘Pinwheel Fireworks’ stamps in a special 90° se-tenant layout 1. Perforated stamps 2. Embossed perforated stamps 3. Imperforate stamps printed on foiled paper 4. Semi-imperforate stamps (outside perforations only – pictured)

Limited Edition = 250 This pack was also supplied in error with two perforated and two semi-imperforate minisheets instead of the 4 different ones.

Christmas foiled sheetlet pack (Price = $49.95. FV of stamps = $18.50)

4 sheetlets with a block of 4 perforated foiled stamps 1. 65c ‘Tree’ 2. 65c ‘Parcel’ 3. 70c ‘Dove’ 4. $1.70 ‘Bell’

Sheetlet with a se-tenant block of 4 of 65c, 65c, 70c & $1.70 imperforate foiled self-adhesive stamps

Limited Edition = 500

Page 33: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

32

2014 (Contd.)

2014 multisheet set (Price = $89.95. FV of stamps = $85.50)

Sheets A & B with 23 & 22 ‘Commemorative Portrait’ stamps ($28.85 & $22.05 face value) Sheet C with 28 ‘Commemorative Landscape’ stamps ($21.70 face value) Sheet D with 13 ‘Square’ stamps ($12.90 face value) Each sheet had a sheet number insert (e.g. “Sheet A No. ___ of 500”) in the bottom right corner and a

pseudo gutter with text: “Australian Stamps 2014” and the title Many of the stamps differ from the originals Limited Edition = 500

Page 34: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

33

2014 (Contd.)

Impressions 2014

Product No. of

StampsFace Value of Stamps

Cost of “Packaging”

Price

WW1 Commemorative Album 1914 28 $19.60 $230.35 $249.95The Centenary of ADF stamp and lapel pin set 8 $5.60 $94.35 $99.95Centenary of Military Aviation and Submarines pack

2 $1.40 $88.55 $89.95

100th Anniversary of First Air Mail flight re-enactment collection

4 $6.60 $153.35 $159.95

Kangaroo & Map and King George V stamp and coin set

2 $10.70 $188.30 $199.00

Bush Ballads collection 12 $8.40 $121.55 $129.95Open Gardens minisheet collection 25 $17.50 $82.45 $99.95Floral emblems prestige booklet* 16 $26.50 $3.45 $29.95Kookaburra minisheet and gold coin set 1 $0.36 $88.64 $89.00Kangaroo minisheet and gold coin set 1 $0.36 $88.64 $89.00Koala minisheet and gold coin set 1 $0.36 $88.64 $89.00Things that Sting minisheet collection 36 $25.20 $64.75 $89.95Southern Lights exclusive minisheet pack 8 $8.40 $11.55 $19.95Ulysses Butterfly minisheet and coin set 1 $0.50 $34.45 $34.95Leichhardt’s Grasshopper minisheet and coin set 1 $0.50 $34.45 $34.95Corroboree Frog minisheet and coin set 1 $0.03 $34.92 $34.95Orangutan minisheet and coin set 1 $0.60 $34.35 $34.95Asian Elephant minisheet and coin set 1 $1.00 $33.95 $34.95Sumatran Tiger minisheet and coin set 1 $0.60 $34.35 $34.95Royal miniature sheet collection 8 $13.00 $136.95 $149.95Special Occasions imperforate sheet 96 $67.20 $31.80 $99.00Special Occasions pinwheel minisheet pack 16 $11.20 $38.75 $49.95Christmas foiled sheetlet pack 20 $18.50 $31.45 $49.952014 multisheet set 86 $85.50 $4.45 $89.95

Totals 376 $329.61 $1754.44 $2084.05* Floral Emblems ‘4-colour separation’ transparent plastic stamps not included = 16 x $3.50 + 16 x $1.40 + 16 x 70c

Page 35: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

34

Information Notes:

CTO = Cancelled To Order = A gummed stamp that has been postmarked either by hand or printer. FDI = First Day of Issue. FV = Face Value. Microdate = The year of release in tiny numbers within the reprinted stamp’s image. (The stamp may also

have a Year Code corresponding to the year of the original issue.) OSD = On-Sale Date = The date of release of variations such as reprints. This is usually after the FDI. PNC = Postal Numismatic Cover = Stamps with a printed postmark on an envelope containing a coin. SSS = Souvenir Stamp Sheet. Year Code = The year of issue in numbers within the stamp’s image.

All stamps in the above products are gummed and perforated unless shown otherwise.

Summary Table Headings: “No. of Stamps” = The quantity of Australian mint stamps in the product. “Face Value of Stamps” = FV of mint stamps only. “Cost of Packaging” = Price of the product less the FV of the mint stamps.

Acknowledgements: All stamp images in this publication are copyright and have been reproduced with written permission from Australia Post. © Australian Postal Corporation

http://shop.auspost.com.au/stamp-coin-collectables/impressions

Thank you to Australia Post, stamp collectors and www.stampboards.com members for supplying product details and images – particularly for years 2011, 2012 and 2013 – and for reviewing the article before publication.

Footnotes: 1. I also stopped collecting stamps at the end of 2010 mainly due to the cost of buying the “Impressions”

stamp variations. Throwing over $1000 “packaging” in the rubbish bin every year became uneconomical.

2. For more details on Collectable Stamps go to my website or issuu.com. 3. This article summarises and updates my articles published in the following issues of Stamp News

Australasia: January 2008, February 2009, January & February 2010 and January & February 2011. These articles give full details of the 2007 – 2010 “Impressions” variations.

www.asv.net.au/archive.htm http://issuu.com/asvcat 4. As I have not purchased or viewed all of the “Impressions” products and variations listed above, if you

have any corrections to the information please let me know. Also if you have any images of the variations that are not pictured or nor clear please send them to me and I may include them in future updates.

David Mallen Australian Stamp Variations Melbourne, Australia [email protected] www.asv.net.au

V8 : February 2016

The Australian Stamp Variations Catalogue (Decimal: 1966 – 2010)

lists the above variations prior to 2011. It is still available and is regularly updated.

www.asv.net.au/catalogue.htm

Page 36: Australian Impressions 2005 - 2014

Australian Stamp Variations

Melbourne Australia

www.asv.net.au issuu.com/asvcat