Argentina – Scott #s CB23-24

Description

Argentina Scott # CB23–CB24 — MNH — “Ayuda a Chile” Semi-Postal Airmail Set (1959)
Issued in 1959, this attractive two-stamp semi-postal airmail set was released as part of Argentina’s “Ayuda a Chile” (Aid to Chile) initiative, raising funds following devastating natural disasters in Chile. Both stamps feature elegant botanical illustrations highlighting iconic flowers of the region.

Scott #CB23 (6c + 3c) depicts the Seibo (Erythrina crista-galli), Argentina’s national flower, illustrated in flowing clusters with strong linear shading typical of mid-century Casa de Moneda design.

Scott #CB24 (10.70c + 5.30c) presents the Copihue (Lapageria rosea), Chile’s national flower—an appropriate and symbolic gesture within this bilateral relief issue. The design emphasizes the flower’s distinctive bell-shaped blooms, rendered in soft gradients of rose and carmine.

Both stamps were designed by noted illustrators (R. Viola and E. Milavaca) and printed by the Casa de Moneda, showcasing clean typography, refined botanical artwork, and the bold monochromatic palettes characteristic of Argentina’s 1950s semi-postal issues.

This set is Mint Never Hinged, with full original gum, strong color, and crisp impressions. An excellent addition for collectors of:

• Semi-postal stamps

• Airmail issues

• Botanical topicals

• Latin American philately

• Disaster relief and charity issues