Folk Instruments Stamps Appraisal

1961 Romanian Philatelic Collection - Folk Instruments and George Enescu Festival Issues

This is a collection of eight vintage Romanian postage stamps displayed in a protective glassine-strip stock sheet. The collection features two distinct sets from 1961, issued by 'R.P. ROMINA' (Republica Populară Romînă). The primary series explores traditional Romanian folk music, depicting musicians with local instruments: the Nai (pan flute), Tulnic (long horn), Fluier (flute), Cobza (lute), Cimpoi (bagpipe), and Tambal (cimbalom). These stamps feature a sketch-like artistic style with muted cream backgrounds and colored accents in red, blue, green, and brown. They are identified by their denominations in 'Bani' and 'Leu'. Additionally, there is a commemorative lilac-blue stamp for the 2nd George Enescu International Festival and a small purple 10 Bani definitive stamp. Physically, the stamps are rectangular with standard perforations. Several stamps show visible circular black postal cancellations (postmarks), indicating they were used in circulation, while others appear to be in mint or unused condition. The paper shows consistent light aging but remains well-preserved without visible tears or significant foxing. The craftsmanship reflects the mid-20th-century offset printing techniques used in Eastern Bloc philately, emphasizing national cultural heritage.