Pro Juventute 1913, Helvetia with Child

Switzerland · 1913 · 5c

This is the first semi-postal stamp issued by Switzerland, featuring an allegorical representation of Helvetia, the female national personification of Switzerland. She is depicted holding a child, symbolizing the stamp's purpose to raise funds for youth welfare. The stamp was issued for the Pro Juventute (For the Youth) foundation.

Issued in the pre-World War I era, this stamp marks the beginning of Switzerland's long and continuous tradition of issuing annual charity stamps to support children and youth, a practice that continues to this day.