Date of Issue : 9 May 2006
Postmark : Sydney NSW 2000
Denomination : 2 x 50c, AU$1.25 and AU$1.85
Stamp Size : 37.5 mm x 26 mm
Paper : Tullis Russell
Printing Process : Lithography
Special Feature : Embossed Stitching Effect on the Soccer Ball
This stamp issue by Australia Post coincides with the 18th FIFA World Cup held in Germany. This is the first circular miniature sheet produced by Australia Post. Soccer was probably first played in Australia by English immigrants during the 1860s. The first recorded Australian club was Wanderers, founded at Paramatta in 1880. The four stamps in this issue capture elements associated with the game – heading (50c), goal (50c), save (AU$1.25) and shot (AU$1.85).