Detailed information about : Maltese ships issue 1982

Abstract

This is the first set in a series featuring Maltese Ships. Congratulations to Norbert Attard for a beautiful set. The 3c stamp features the Brigantine (Brigantin), a small and fast ship. This ship was built in Malta and was in use before 1530. The Brigantin ran errands to and from Italy, undertook spying missions and carried cargo to all parts of the Mediterranean. The 8c stamp depicts the Tartana. This ship carried most of the local grain trade from Sicily, and was the most important cargo vessel owned by the Maltese. The 12c stamp shows the Xebec (Xambekk). It was a typical corsair vessel, and one of the fastest of her time. Maltese owners recognised her capabilities as a cargo vessel which could be used in all kinds of weather conditions. The 20c stamp reproduces the Speronara (Xprunara). This typically Maltese vessel was small and quite fast. It was widely used to carry passengers and despatches to and from Italy. The Speronara accompanied warships as an auxiliary vessel and was also employed on guard duties at the entrance of the Grand Harbour. [excerpt]