1961 Austria 180 Schilling Sonnblick Observatory Stamp Appraisal

1961 Austria 1.80 Schilling Sonnblick Observatory Stamp

This is a postage stamp from the Republic of Austria (Republik Österreich) issued in 1961 to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Sonnblick Observatory. The stamp is printed in a monochromatic blue-grey ink on white paper, featuring a highly detailed rotogravure or line-engraving of the alpine summit of Hoher Sonnblick with the meteorological observatory perched at the peak. The design is credited to 'H. RANZONI D. J.' as seen in the bottom margin. Thedenomination of 'S 1.80' is clearly visible in the upper left corner. The stamp features standard comb perforations on all four sides. Physically, the stamp appears to be in used condition, showing a partial black ink cancellation mark on the right-hand side that reads 'WIE[N]' (Vienna). The edges of the perforations show minor wear, and there is some slight discoloration consistent with age and handling. This philatelic item represents the mid-20th-century Austrian aesthetic of 'Austrian Modernism' in stamp design, known for architectural and topographical precision. The craftsmanship of the engraving provides excellent depth and texture to the mountain landscape.