Newspaper Stamp: Stylized Falcon (Sokol)

Czechoslovakia · 1918 · 2 h

This stamp features a stylized falcon, a symbol of the Sokol movement, which was a patriotic gymnastics organization. Designed by renowned artist Alphonse Mucha, the stamp's Art Nouveau style is evident in its flowing lines and decorative elements. It was intended for use on newspapers, as indicated by the 'H' for Haléř denomination.

Issued shortly after Czechoslovakia declared independence from the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918, this was one of the first stamps of the new republic. The Sokol symbol represented national pride and physical fitness, key tenets of the new nation.