ISCNY

In Arnie Janson’s presentation on fantasy countries, he delves into the whimsical world of imaginary nations created by philatelists. These fantasy countries, despite being fictitious, possess a structured government, constitution, and postal authority that issues stamps, known as Cinderellas. The presentation highlights various philatelic items from these countries, such as first day covers, postal stationery, souvenir sheets, and varieties including gutter pairs, imperf sheets, and die proofs. Arnie provides detailed examples, starting with the Republic of May, founded in 1970, and its subsequent history, including relocations due to British resistance and joining the Antarctic Confederation of City Republics in 1984. He explains how these fantasy countries often have home countries, like Australia for May, and showcases stamps with professional-looking cancellations and intricate catalog entries mimicking real-world philatelic catalogs. The Antarctic Confederation of City Republics and its member cities, as well as the National Council of Independent States (ISIS) with its ambitious aim to act as a ‘United Nations of the smaller countries of the Fifth World,’ are also discussed. Arnie further explores the satirical and artistic aspects of these creations, such as the Soviet Republic’s stamps, inspired by a rock band and produced by artist Bob Letcher, who combined his music with philatelic art. Through these detailed examples, Arnie illustrates the serious and artistic efforts put into these fantasy countries, highlighting the creativity and passion of philatelists in this unique niche of stamp collecting.