COUNTRIES CHANGE STRUCTURE

Unification and separation of countries are reflected in the arms of the new states.

The arms of the Commonwealth of Australia consist of the badges of the former six colonies that federated in 1901.

Separated from Slovakia in 1993, the arms of the new Czech Republic represent only Bohemia, Moravia and Silesia.

World War I brought an end to the Hapsburg Empire that was reduced to Austria proper. The shields of the Hapsburg family and Lorraine were dropped, leaving only the shield of the historic Duchy of Austria.

World War I Austrian field post free frank handstamp.