Assassinated King Faisal II Signed Postage Postal Stamp Iraqi Royalty Autograph

This exceedingly rare and historically significant artifact is an original c.1955 postal stamp block from the Kingdom of Iraq, personally and elegantly hand-signed “Faisal” by King Faisal II. The set comprises a block of four unused postage stamps, signed in blue fountain pen ink across the stamps by Faisal II himself. These stamps were autographed upon request in 1955, just three years before his tragic assassination during the 14 July Revolution in 1958. This exceptional item, measuring 1.75 inch x 2.75 inches, is in fine mint condition and has never been circulated, making it a museum-quality piece. The combination of its pristine condition, rarity, and direct connection to Faisal II elevates it to a one-of-a-kind collectible.

Faisal II, born on 2 May 1935, was the last King of Iraq, reigning from 4 April 1939 until his death on 14 July 1958. His assassination during the revolution marked the violent end of the Hashemite monarchy in Iraq, which had lasted for thirty-seven years, and the establishment of the Iraqi Republic. As the only son of King Ghazi and Queen Aliya, Faisal ascended to the throne at the age of three following his father’s death in a car crash. A regency under his uncle, Prince 'Abd al-Ilah, governed the kingdom during his minority. During World War II, Faisal and his mother were evacuated to the United Kingdom, where he attended Harrow School alongside his cousin Hussein, the future King of Jordan.

Upon coming of age in May 1953, Faisal assumed full authority as king. His reign saw increasing political instability, influenced by the overthrow of the Egyptian monarchy in 1953, the rise of Arab nationalism, and the creation of the United Arab Republic in 1958. Despite attempts to stabilize the region, including the formation of the Hashemite Arab Federation between Iraq and Jordan in 1958, opposition to the monarchy grew. These tensions culminated in the coup d’état led by Abd al-Karim Qasim, which resulted in the execution of Faisal and members of his family, effectively ending Iraq’s monarchy.

This autographed block of stamps provides a rare and personal connection to Faisal II, encapsulating a moment in history from the twilight of Iraq’s Hashemite monarchy. The stamps are both a symbolic and tangible representation of Faisal’s brief but impactful reign and the tumultuous era in which he lived. As a highly unique artifact, it holds exceptional value for collectors, historians, and institutions, offering insights into the life of Iraq’s last king and the political dynamics of the mid-20th century Middle East. Its authenticity and mint condition make it a standout addition to any collection of royal or philatelic memorabilia.