Iraq – Scott # 119, used

Description

Issued in 1953, Iraq Scott #119 is a definitive stamp featuring a portrait of King Faisal II, who ascended the throne as a child following the death of his father, King Ghazi. Definitive issues bearing his likeness were widely used during the final decade of the Hashemite monarchy in Iraq, preceding the 1958 revolution that ended royal rule.

The design presents a finely engraved portrait of the young king in Western dress, rendered with careful line work that emphasizes realism and dignity. Arabic script appears prominently at the top, identifying the issuing authority, while bilingual inscriptions in Arabic and English below read “IRAQ POSTAGE.” The denomination of 15 fils is clearly marked in both scripts, reflecting Iraq’s bilingual postal conventions of the period.

Printed in subdued gray tones, the stamp exemplifies the restrained and formal aesthetic typical of mid-20th-century Middle Eastern definitives. Issues from this era are particularly significant for their historical context, representing a monarchy soon to be swept away by political change.

This example is offered used, bearing a clear cancellation consistent with genuine postal circulation. The stamp retains strong portrait detail, legible inscriptions, and intact perforations with normal wear appropriate to use.

Country: Iraq
Year of Issue: 1953
Scott Number: 119
Denomination: 15 fils
Condition: Used