Stamp releasesFind the latest stamp releasesStamp Releases pageCanada – 50th anniversary of the 1972 Summit SeriesSeptember 24, 2022Canada Post today marked the 50th anniversary of the 1972 Summit Series with a stamp that celebrates the experience that millions of Canadians shared in as they watched an unprecedented clash of hockey titans – and Team Canada’s dying-seconds victory in Game 8 – on television. The stamp’s design, depicting a faceoff in the frame of a 1970s-style television, recalls Canada glued before its TV screens as our best professional hockey players went up against the Soviet Union’s national team for the first time. For nearly a month, Canadians rode an emotional roller coaster together, from confidence to sobering defeats. Canada Post has also released a special video in which several prominent Canadians recall their experience and the impact it had on the country. They include: Television journalist Lisa LaflammeRetired television journalist Peter Mansbridge;Sports broadcaster Pierre Houde;Paralympian Rick Hansen;Montreal Gazette editorial cartoonist Terry Mosher (a.k.a. Aislin),Five-time women’s world hockey champion France Saint-Louis;Scientist and broadcaster David Suzuki;President and CEO of Historica Canada Anthony Wilson-Smith; andCanada Post President and CEO Doug Ettinger. On September 28, 1972, an estimated 13 to 15 million Canadians (out of 21 million) tuned in for that decisive game. They watched in their living rooms and panelled basement rec rooms. They watched in bars and Royal Canadian Legion Halls. They watched in factories and offices. They lined up shoulder to shoulder in front of televisions on sale in department stores. Schoolchildren watched on boxy TVs on stands wheeled into their gymnasium or classroom. Businesses closed to let employees watch. With a mere 34 seconds left in the game, Paul Henderson scored the series-winning goal. He later said, “When I saw it go in, I just went bonkers.” So did the country.... Read more...Portugal – SOLIDARITY WITH THE UKRAINIAN PEOPLESeptember 21, 2022Correios de Portugal’s policy of showing solidarity with the Ukrainian people at this extremely difficult time for their country, it is with great pleasure that we join together once more in helping and supporting the recovery of Ukrainian society. The postage stamp was created for a simple purpose: to serve as proof of payment for a message transmission service. It then evolved into what it is now: an ambassador for important causes and a celebration of the most important achievements in the issuing countries. The stamp is also, and always has been, a herald of peace. It has an ecumenical, solidarity-based, educational dimension, uniting peoples and nations. It simplifies communication, carrying and delivering messages of all kinds to every corner on Earth. As such, CTT Correios de Portugal has decided to use the postage stamp to express our utmost solidarity with the Ukrainian people at this difficult time, issuing this stamp which has been designed by our prestigious designer Professor João Machado. In addition to this stamp, and as a prestigious symbolic expression of the connection between Ukraine and this CTT initiative, we present a text by His Excellency the President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a contribution that greatly honours us and adds even greater value to the issue. CTT will donate all net proceeds from these stamps to actions that contribute towards alleviating the plight of the Ukrainian people. These actions will be defined in detail in close collaboration with the Embassy of Ukraine in Portugal.... Read more...Malta – In Memory of HM Queen Elizabeth II – 1926 – 2022September 20, 2022Princess Elizabeth Alexandra Mary was born in London on April 21 1926, the elder daughter of Prince Albert, Duke of York, and his wife, Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. As the child of a younger son of King George V, she had little prospect of acceding to the throne. However , once her uncle Edward VIII abdicated on December 11, 1936, her father became King George VI and , she , in turn , the heir presumptive. In a radio address to the Commonwealth in 1947, on her 21st birthday, she said: “I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong.” On 20 November 1947, she married Prince Philip at Westminster Abbey, in a relatively simple ceremony as the country was still recovering from the ravages of World War II. Princess Elizabeth gave birth to Prince Charles in 1948 and to Princess Anne two years later. Prince Andrew and Prince Edward were born in 1960 and 1964 respectively. As Prince Philip’s naval wife, off and on between 1949 and 1951, Princess Elizabeth lived in Malta, mainly at Villa Guardamangia, Pietà. In the summer of 1951, the health of King George VI entered into serious decline. In January 1952 the Princess and Prince set out on a tour of Australia and New Zealand, but en route, at Sagana, Kenya, news reached them of the King’s death on February 6, 1952. Elizabeth age 25, now Queen, at once flew back to England. Her coronation was held at Westminster Abbey on June 2, 1953. At the time of her death, Queen Elizabeth held a number of other titles, which have now automatically passed to her son and heir, King Charles III. She was head of the Commonwealth, commander-in-chief of the British Armed Forces, and supreme governor of the Church of England. She was also patron of more than 600 charities and organisations. In 2015, she also became the longest-serving British monarch in history, passing the record set by her great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria. As head of state and head of nation, Queen Elizabeth II was widely regarded as a symbol of stability, working tirelessly to ensure the monarchy remained relevant during a period of immense social, technological, and economic change. The Queen’s reign saw 15 different UK prime ministers, from Winston Churchill to Liz Truss. Away from her official duties, she was a devoted wife and mother, and dedicated grandmother to eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She was a monarch without equal. Date Of Issue: 19 Sep 2022Designer: MaltaPost p.l.cPerforation: pvaProcess: offsetSheet: Miniature Sheet bearing 1 stampDenominations: 5.00Watermark: Maltese CrossesSize: Sheet Size 120mm x 80mm... Read more...Hungary- Szigligeti Theatre in Szolnok promotional personalised stampSeptember 20, 2022Magyar Posta is issuing a promotional personalised stamp to celebrate Szigligeti Theatre in Szolnok. Thirty-five thousand copies of the philatelic novelty made by printing on the label part of the Your Own Stamp personalised stamp were produced by the banknote printing company Pénzjegynyomda. It can be purchased at Filaposta and designated post offices or ordered from Magyar Posta’s online store from 16 September 2022. The first theatre performance in Szolnok was held in the winter of 1822, but at that time only a barn provided the venue for travelling companies. On 20 April 1912, a new theatre building was inaugurated. It was designed by the Budapest architects Frigyes Spiegel and Károly Englerth, and constructed in less than a year by local masons under the direction of Antal Bede, a contractor from Szolnok. As early as the 1920s, the Szolnok Municipal Theatre needed renovation, which was carried out in 1926 and 1927. The building was seriously damaged during the Second World War. In 1946-47, the most necessary repairs were done, and the institution operated as a host theatre for the locality, in conjunction with the Kecskemét company until 1949, and later with the Békéscsaba company between 1952 and 1954. In 1954, an independent company was founded. The theatre adopted the name of the dramatist Ede Szigligeti when it became independent in 1954. By the 1960s, another reconstruction became necessary. These works were completed in 1963, and the partially reconstructed theatre opened with Ede Szigligeti’s comedy Young Lily. In 1989, the building was declared unsafe and underwent a complete restoration, both internally and externally. The architectural designer of this project was Mária Siklós and the interior designer was Gábor Schinagl. The new theatre was inaugurated on 11 April 1990. In September 2018, another decision was made to carry out a renovation of the building, which was completed in 2022. (Source: szigligeti.com, wikipedia.org) The main facade of the Szigligeti Theatre in Szolnok appears on the label of the stamp. In the background of the first day cover, the auditorium and the chandelier form the graphic composition, while the foreground features a full-length statue of the renowned playwright and stage director the theatre is named after, Ede Szigligeti, by the sculptor Gábor Benő Pogány. The postmark features the theatre’s logo. Typepromotional personalised stampShort descriptionMagyar Posta is issuing a promotional personalised stamp to celebrate Szigligeti Theatre in Szolnok.Printing OfficePénzjegynyomda Zrt.Issue year2022Issue time16 September 2022Perforation Sizer18 x 25.2 mmStamp Circulation35000Face Value160ThemeartDesignerAttila André ElekesStamped/Uncanceledmint... Read more...Monaco – Christmas 2022September 20, 2022This modern and colorful representation of the Virgin and Child, a recurring theme in religious art evoking the Nativity of Christ, illustrates the Christmas stamp. Design and line engraving: Louis GENTYPrinting process: Steel-engraving and offsetSize of the stamp: 30 x 40,85 mm verticalQuantity of issue: 55 000 stampsSheet of 10 stamps with illuminations... Read more...Slovakia – The 50th Anniversary of the Launch of the International System for the Transmission of Gas via Slovakia September 20, 2022 This year Slovakia will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the launch of the system for the transmission of natural gas, through its territory, to European markets. In the beginning, the Eustream (at that time Slovtransgaz) distribution network only transmitted natural gas from east to west. However, massive investment into the development of the transmission network over more than a decade put EUSTREAM in a completely different position. The system of parallel gas pipelines provides a bi-direction link with the main transmission routes of the Ukraine, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Austria and Poland – all our neighbouring countries. Thus, it is possible to transmit natural gas to and from all the cardinal points. During the crisis, caused by the war in the Ukraine, this ability of the Slovak distribution system has become exceptionally significant. It allows us and the countries around us to use alternative sources of natural gas. In 2022, when the Slovak gas transmission company, Eustream, commemorates half a century of operations, we will also see the completion of a new project that is important to European energy security: a gas main that connects Poland and Slovakia, the last, missing link in the new strategic north-south European corridor. This corridor links the LNG terminals in the Baltic Sea (Świnoujście (Poland)) and the new Baltic Pipe, connected to Norwegian sources of natural gas, with the Adriatic (the Krk LNG terminal). It is a new transmission vein that supports the common European safety of supply, provides new options for supply and confirms the important position of Slovakia as the gas supply crossroads of Central Europe. Half a century of operation of the transmission system is inter-mingled with the power crisis that has resulted from the military invasion of the Ukraine as well as appeals for decarbonisation. At present, the fully modernised Slovak distribution network is the main route that has supplied the Ukraine with natural gas purchased on European markets since 2014. The half-century of operation of the Slovak transmission system is also a reminder of the mutual cooperation with our Ukrainian partners, the operator of the natural gas transmission network (Gas TSO of Ukraine), who, despite the crisis, has continued to be a stable partner who contributes to European energy security. At the same time, Slovakia has been preparing for its future role in the construction of a hydrogen economy. In the future our robust distribution network, made up of parallel mains, could not only be used for the transmission of natural gas in various directions, but also gradually switched to the transmission of hydrogen produced from renewable energy sources in the EU and our neighbouring countries (including the Ukraine). Issue number: 775 Date of issue: 23.9.2022 Face value: 1,00 € Dimensions: 44,1 x 26,5 mm Layout: Stamp Sheet Stamps on printing sheet: 50 pcs Stamps in set: 1 Author of Stamp design: Igor Benca Engraver: – Printer: Tiskárna Hradištko, s.r.o. Printing technology: Offset Circulation: 750 000 Author of FDC design: Igor Benca FDC Engraver: – Postmark design: Igor Benca FDC printing technology: Offset ... Read more...Slovakia – Solidarity with UkraineSeptember 20, 2022When the army of the Russian Federation started an aggressive war against the Ukraine on 24th February 2022, a wave of solidarity arose, throughout the democratic world, with the heroic struggle of the Ukraine. In addition to the most important form of support to the besieged nation, highly effective modern weapons, the provision of humanitarian aid to the victims of this terrorist war and the civilian population affected by it is and will continue to be important. The criminal totalitarian Russian regime is also waging a bloody war against women and children. To escape from the conflict millions of them have left the Ukraine, primarily for the European Union. From the beginning of the conflict, more than 700,000 Ukrainian citizens have crossed the Slovak border. The majority have been women and children looking for a safe haven. Many of them have travelled onwards beyond Slovakia, moving on to other countries, but more than 90,000 have asked for protection from the Slovak Republic. At the border, local governments and non-governmental organisations, supported by hundreds of dedicated volunteers, did a lot to support them as they crossed into Slovakia. The provision of accommodation, food, medical care and an education for children showed our growing willingness to help and this is a highly positive entry on Slovakia’s report card: as positive as the supply of weapons that contributed to the collapse of the aggressor’s plans for a quick victory. This spontaneous support for a democratic Ukraine, seen in demonstrations attended by many of our citizens in many cities throughout Slovakia, has raised the hopes of the refugees that the time will come when they will be able to return to their free homeland. Issue number: 774 Date of issue: 16.9.2022 Face value: 0,75 € Dimensions: 44,1 x 26,5 mm Layout: Stamp Sheet Stamps on printing sheet: 50 pcs Stamps in set: 1 Author of Stamp design: Peter Konečný Engraver: – Printer: Tiskárna Hradištko, s.r.o. Printing technology: Offset Circulation: 500 000 Author of FDC design: Mykola Kovalenko FDC Engraver: – Postmark design: Mykola Kovalenko FDC printing technology: Offset ... Read more...Malta – SEPAC Stamp Issue – Local BeveragesSeptember 13, 2022SEPAC Stamp Issue – Local Beverages As a member of SEPAC (Small European Postal Administration Cooperation) and in keeping with its annual tradition of a joint stamp issue, MaltaPost will issue a set of four stamps titled Local Beverages on the 13 of September. The designs of this Malta set are decidedly retro with four bottles taking centre stage against a flatly rendered, yet colourful, local backdrop. The stamp set was designed by Daniel Spiteri. The stamps will be issued in a sheet of 10 stamps, with each stamp measuring 31mm x 44mm, with a comb perforation of 13.9 x 14.0 and bearing the Maltese Cross watermark. The sheets measure 185mm x 118mm and were produced by Printex Ltd in the offset process. The issue consists of 500,000 of the €0.37 stamp, 100,000 of the €0.57 stamp, 300,000 of the €1.40 stamp and 60,000 of the €2.00 stamp. These stamps will be available from all Post Offices in Malta and Gozo from Tuesday 13th September 2022. ... Read more...Slovakia – Nature Protection: Important Fossils from Slovakia – Seal Devinophoca claytoniSeptember 13, 2022Nature Protection: Important Fossils from Slovakia – Seal Devinophoca claytoni Devínska Kobyla hill (514 m) forms the south-eastern ridge of the Little Carpathians. A large number of paleontological sites makes this place unique. These include Bonanza, a significant paleontological site, that is located on the northern edge of Devínska Kobyla, between the boroughs of Dúbravka and Devínska Nová Ves. The site is a rift in the Mesozoic limestone that is filled with marine sediments from the Early Tertiary – Miocene periods. Excavations have revealed rare fossils of marine and terrestrial vertebrates. During the Early Tertiary period (Miocene) Devínska Kobyla was an area of dry land with an ecosystem that ranged between that of a peninsular and an island. Based on the fossils discovered, it can be assumed that 13 million years ago the dominant ecosystem was a subtropical moist forest habitat with sources of fresh water and rare clearings. The coast included rocky cliffs and sandy beaches washed by a warm shallow sea that was inhabited by a wide range of marine fauna. One such animal was a seal: Devinophoca claytoni, whose unique fossilised remnants were discovered at Bonanza. The fossils of this newly described genus and species of seal shows that it had specific morphological features which makes it stand-out from other groups of seals. Thus, Devinophoca claytoni was included into the newly described subfamily Devinophocinae. The genus and family names were coined from the name of the nearby borough of Devínska Nová Ves and the Latin name for the seal (phoca). It is very important from an evolutionary point of view as it represents a primitive group of seals, found at Devínska Kobyla, that is considered to be the predecessors of all the seals that live today. This precious species was only endemic to Bonanza, where it lived in the shallow marine paleo-environment with the zones of coral reefs near the former coast of Devínska Kobyla, on the eastern edge of this Tertiary sea, the Central Paratethys. The morphology of the skull revealed that the species Devinophoca claytoni lived on molluscs and crustaceans. The postage stamp depicts the fossil of the holotype of the skull of Devinophoca claytoni which may be found in the collection of the Museum of Natural History of the Slovak National Museum in Bratislava. Technical details Issue number: 772 Date of issue: 9.9.2022 Face value: 0,75 € Dimensions: 30,5 x 44,4 mm Layout: Stamp Sheet Stamps on printing sheet: 3 pcs Stamps in set: 2 Author of Stamp design: Karol Felix Engraver: František Horniak Printer: Tiskárna Hradištko, s.r.o. Printing technology: Recess printing from flat plate combined with offset Circulation: 60 000 Author of FDC design: Karol Felix FDC Engraver: František Horniak Postmark design: Karol Felix FDC printing technology: Recess printing from flat plate ... Read more...Hungary – The Hungarian airline Magyar Légiforgalmi Részvénytársaság was founded 100 years agoSeptember 13, 2022The Hungarian airline Magyar Légiforgalmi Részvénytársaság was founded 100 years ago Magyar Posta is issuing a special stamp to mark the centenary of the foundation of the Hungarian airline Magyar Légiforgalmi Részvénytársaság. Forty thousand copies of the stamp designed by the graphic artist György Kara were produced by ANY Security Printing Company. The new issue goes on sale at Filaposta, philately specialist services, designated post offices and www.posta.hu from 2 September 2022. On 19 November 1922, the Hungarian airline Magyar Légiforgalmi Rt. (ML Rt., later MALERT) was founded. As the main rival of the German-backed Aeroexpress Rt., its Fokker F-III aircraft, capable of carrying five passengers, connected Budapest with Vienna and Belgrade. As a result of developments in 1937/38, the aircraft were adapted to carry 24 passengers. In 1939, MALERT connected Budaörs with Venice, Rome, Milan, Vienna, Salzburg, Munich, Zurich, Berlin, Krakow and Warsaw with daily flights, and with Belgrade, Arad and Bucharest every other day. In the later years, the company operated flights to Košice, Uzhhorod, Oradea, Cluj-Napoca, Târgu Mureș, Odorheiu Secuiesc, Sfântu Gheorghe, Târgu Secuiesc and Miercurea Ciuc, towns that were once part of historic Hungary. During the Second World War, aviation lost the most in terms of transport, as regards personnel, aircraft and ground facilities. The entire fleet of civil aeroplanes was destroyed. Three months after the establishment of the Hungarian-Soviet Civil Aviation Company (MASZOVLET), MALERT was dissolved on 30 July 1946. The main motif of the stamp is ML Rt.’s Fokker F.III passenger aircraft from Mátyásföld, Budapest. In the lower part of the stamp is a detail of a former advertisement for the Budapest-Vienna route. The special first day cover shows some ML Rt. Fokker F.III passenger aircraft and the company logo. The company logo is used again in the design of the special postmark. Technical details TypestampShort descriptionMagyar Posta is issuing a special stamp to mark the centenary of the foundation of the Hungarian airline Magyar Légiforgalmi Részvénytársaság. Forty thousand copies of the stamp designed by the graphic artist György Kara were produced by ANY Security PriPrinting OfficeANY Biztonsági Nyomda Nyrt.Issue year2022Issue time2 September 2022Perforation Sizer30 x 40 mmStamp Circulation40000Face Value795ThemeanniversaryDesignerGyörgy KaraStamped/Uncanceledmint... Read more...Hungary – Cartoon and fairy tale characters IV: Mazsola and TádéSeptember 13, 2022Cartoon and fairy tale characters IV: Mazsola and Tádé Magyar Posta is issuing a numbered special souvenir sheet on the theme of Cartoon and Fairy Tale Characters using the characters of the animated television series Mazsola and Tádé, produced in the MTV studio, the creation of the writer Ágnes Bálint, the puppet designer Vera Bródy and the set designer Sándor Lévai. Fifty thousand copies of the souvenir sheet designed by the graphic artist István Weisenburger were produced by the banknote printing company Pénzjegynyomda Zrt. The new issue will be released on 2 September 2022. The new issue is available from Filaposta, philately specialist services, designated post offices and www.posta.hu. Mazsola (Raisin) the little pig unexpectedly gets a younger brother, and sulkily and jealously watches as Manócska the elf shares his love between him and the newcomer, Tádé (Thaddeus) the guinea pig. Then, just like children do, he grows to love his little brother and understands that Manócska loves him no less than when he was the only one. The stories performed with lovable puppets and a gentle sense of humour set a fine example of how to resolve everyday conflicts for children and adults alike. There were two seasons of the Hungarian Television puppet series Mazsola and Tádé made between 1969 and 1973 as a sequel to the puppet television series Mazsola 1 to 3 (1964-66), which were first aired by Hungarian Television between 1969 and 1971. The series was written by Ágnes Bálint, and the puppets were designed by Vera Bródy and the sets by Sándor Lévai. The three stamps of the special souvenir sheet show the main characters: Mazsola in the left stamp, Manócska in the middle stamp and Tádé in the right stamp. The pumpkin house and some other characters appear in the frame of the sheet: Uncle Crow, Little Mouse, Menyus the bear, and Mazsola’s friend, Mole. On the special cover, to mark the 100th anniversary of her birth, Ágnes Bálint is shown playing with the figure of Mazsola. Stylised portraits of Mazsola and Tádé feature in the postmark. Ágnes Bálint (1922-2008) was a Hungarian writer, editor, dramaturge, and winner of the József Attila Prize. Her writings were published when she was only 14 and her first children’s book was published at the age of 19. She worked for Hungarian Television from 1958 until her retirement in 1986. From 1961, she wrote puppet shows and later worked as a scriptwriter for cartoons. In 1968 she launched the first programme promoting environmental awareness, Kuckó. Later, she published several books as well as translations, and her own works were also published in foreign languages. In 1997 she was awarded the Small Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary and in 2016 the Hungarian Heritage Prize. An interesting feature of the souvenir sheet is that, after scanning the QR code on it, information can be accessed about the stamps of the series published so far, the tales presented and their creators. Technical details Typesouvenir sheetShort descriptionMagyar Posta is issuing a numbered special souvenir sheet on the theme of Cartoon and Fairy Tale Characters using the characters of the animated television series Mazsola and Tádé, produced in the MTV studio, the creation of the writer Ágnes Bálint, thePrinting OfficePénzjegynyomda Zrt.Issue year2022Issue time2 September 2022Perforation Sizer30 x 40 mmCutting size160 x 96 mmStamp Circulation50000Face Value600ThemechildDesignerIstván WeisenburgerStamped/Uncanceledmint... Read more...Hungary – Hungarian rock classics III: LordSeptember 13, 2022Hungarian rock classics III: Lord Magyar Posta is continuing its series on Hungarian rock classics by presenting the band Lord, which is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its foundation in 2022. Fifty thousand copies of the black numbered perforated souvenir sheets and 4,000 copies of the red numbered imperforated souvenir sheets designed by the graphic artist Tibor Z. Petényi were produced by ANY Security Printing Company. The new issue goes on sale at Filaposta, philately specialist services, certain post offices and www.posta.hu from 2 September 2022. Two members of the Red Fire cover band from Szombathely, László Papp on keyboards and Ferenc Vida on bass, were joined by Ernő Sipőcz on guitar/vocals and István Sütő on drums, and thus the band Lord was formed in 1972. In 1980, the band took part in the national talent contest at Budapest’s Metro Club. In the same year, Attila Erős, who had already played in the band for a short time, joined the group. In 1981, they gained popularity with singer Mihály Pohl, who is still a permanent member of the band. Their first album, called Big City Lights, was released in Austria in 1985. The song Vándor, which later became the anthem of Lord and Hungarian rock music, featured on this release. The year 1986 and the song Zaklatott fények brought their first television appearance. In 1988, the band released its first album in Hungary, Szemedben csillagok, which has been followed by 8 more studio albums to date. After several changes of members, Lord, with the new line-up of Attila Erős, Attila Gidófalvy, Lajos Gyurik, Mihály Pohl and Ferenc Vida, took to the stage at a re-launch concert in April 2000. At the Golden Arrow Rock Gala in March 2004, they won the 2003 Lifetime Achievement of the Year Award, based on audience votes. In 2005, Ferenc Vida was replaced by bass guitarist Károly Apró. The following year, the band received the European Golden Artist International Quality Award. To mark the 45th anniversary of their formation, they gave a super concert on 11 February at the Papp László Budapest Sport Arena. The band, currently consisting of Mihály Pohl, Attila Erős, Zoltán Világi, Károly Apró and Zsolt Horváth and celebrating their 50th anniversary this year, is still active and constantly performing today. Embroidery on jeans and badges, which became fashion items for rockers in the 1960s and 1970s, provide the basis for the souvenir sheet. The band’s logo appears on the design of the stamp and the lyrics of their most iconic song, Vándor, appear in the frame, embellished by related thematic elements. On the first day cover, an electric guitar and plectrum together with the initial letter of the band’s name form a graphic composition. The special postmark features Lord’s logo. Technical details Typesouvenir sheetShort descriptionMagyar Posta is continuing its series on Hungarian rock classics by presenting the band Lord, which is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its foundation in 2022.Printing OfficeANY Biztonsági Nyomda Nyrt.Issue year2022Issue time2 September 2022Perforation Sizercircular, 37 mm diameterCutting size76 x 50 mmStamp Circulation50000Face Value1000ThememusicDesignerTibor Z. PetényiStamped/Uncanceledmint... Read more...Falkland Islands – Rural HeritageSeptember 7, 2022The rural history of the Falklands is wide ranging: bases used by early hunters of seals and penguins for extracting oil; lone graves of sailors from passing ships who died and were buried on Falkland shores, or of settlers who died as a result of accident or illness; wrecks of ships whose timbers still survive on reefs and rocky beaches; sites of habitation or industry; stone buildings and structures; signs of communication such as semaphores, letterboxes and lighthouses. Cattle and pigs were put ashore by visiting ships in order to provide fresh meat for future visits. Once the islands were settled cattle hands and good horsemen (gauchos) were employed to undertake the various tasks involving wild, and later tamed, cattle. This included the building of stone and turf corrals and walls (which must have been back-breaking work undertaken with minimal tools) many of which are still visible today. Sheep farming and the export of wool became a more lucrative trade and has continued ever since, but brought about a call for shepherds (mostly from the United Kingdom). Boundary riders were employed and lived in basic huts until wool began showing financial returns when fences were erected, and small houses were built on outlying areas of farms so that shepherds could live near their flocks. Settlements, the farm headquarters, were built in harbours with jetties to enable wool to be shipped out and supplies brought in. These settlements grew larger as more workers were required, and as more sheep were being carried on farms, so those farms prospered and were able to improve housing and amenities. Life was not easy for farming populations as there were no roads, communications were basic, sea links were sometimes hazardous for sea craft of all sizes. These carried supplies, mail, doctors, itinerant school teachers and other passengers from offshore island farms to mainland settlements and back again. Some tragedies resulted. On land, horses, carts and other horse drawn equipment travelled on pre-defined tracks between settlements and shepherds’ houses. This too could be hazardous, crossing rivers, beaches and over mountains in sometimes inclement weather brought downfall to some. As farming progressed so did communications with magneto telephones being installed, bridges built, and tracked and wheeled vehicles introduced, making life much easier. Radio Telephones (R/T) made a huge difference to communications, especially to those on islands who felt less isolated, as did the establishment of the air service using floatplanes which could land at settlements to transport passengers and deliver mail. Beginning in the 1980s many of the larger farms were subdivided and sold in sections as single family units; thus life changed quite radically for many. Now a network of all-weather tracks connects farms and a ferry links East and West Falkland. Time and progress have marched on very quickly it seems and, as such, relics from rural life can sometimes be demolished, fall down, get ploughed under, built over, covered by vegetation or just forgotten altogether. 1p Rudd’s Pass, San Carlos River In October 1864 John Rudd, the Falkland Islands Company’s camp manager at Darwin, was riding through the river pass accompanied by a gaucho or cattle hand by the name of Gill (records show him as being ‘a half bred Indian’). As they were fording the river, Gill stabbed John Rudd who later died of his wounds. Gill fled and hid in shrubbery, but was discovered by men from the farm, taken to Darwin, thence to Stanley where he was hanged for the murder of John Rudd. Folklore tells of a card game in Stanley where Gill drew the ‘short straw’ as the person who would commit the murder, but there is no evidence to support this. John’s widow was left with six young children and was expecting a seventh. 2p The St Mary Whale Point, Island Harbour, Fitzroy Farm The newly built ship ‘St Mary’ was damaged in 1891 after nearing Cape Horn, when an iron ship collided with her, resulting in her making for the Falklands and Stanley, for repairs. She struck the reef opposite Kelp Lagoon, where she lay a shattered wreck. The crew managed to make Fitzroy but the captain stayed aboard the ship. He was found the next day, lying dead in his berth. At the inquest the jury returned that his death was caused by ‘heart disease accelerated by worry and excitement’. A storm later split the wreck into two halves, one of which came ashore. Some of the valuable cargo, which included carpet, coffee, whiskey, paraffin and soap, was sold by auction. A portion of the ‘tween decks was taken back to Maine, USA and reconstructed in Maine State Museum, Augusta. 5p Hillside House, Riverside Farm An early stone cottage in a ruined state near to the more modern (1940’s) wooden house. The location was chosen by the shepherd Jason Phillips and the cottage built by the Falkland Islands Company in 1868. It was later discovered that the cottage was built on the wrong side of the plot boundary and most likely on Fitzroy farmland. 10p Ferguson’s Lookout, New Island The stone shelter on top of a hill overlooking New Island settlement was built by Bob Ferguson and his sister Effie during WWII as one of 16 coast watching stations set up in Camp. On a clear day it gives excellent views for miles in all directions. Monetary rewards were given for the sighting of foreign and/or enemy ships during WWII. As a lookout, it has the advantage of being enclosed and with a stone roof, enabling the person watching for approaching ships to remain relatively dry and warm. 54p Mission Station, Keppel Island structures The Patagonian Missionary Society, established a settlement on Keppel Island in 1855, the aim being to bring Fuegian Indians to be “civilised” and educated and shown practical farming skills so that, on their return to Patagonia, they could pass on those skills. Their hard work made the Island self-supporting in vegetables, beef, mutton and wool, the surplus produce being sold to Stanley and the wool exported. The need to bring parties of Indians to Keppel was reduced following the establishment of mission settlements in their homeland and so from 1898 the island was run as a farm only, until it was sold in 1911 to the Deans who continued with sheep farming. 77p Caravans, general farm constructions Caravans were rather heavy, farm made huts on sleigh runners or, less commonly, on wheels. They could be towed around farms for fencing work or left in situ near, for example, peat bogs or lamb marking pens where farm workers were required to live on site for short periods. The caravans were normally timber framed, clad with flat iron and roofed with corrugated iron, and contained bunks and a small peat stove for cooking, heating and boiling water. A peat bin and meatsafe were often located on the outside end of the caravan. Quite a number can still be seen on farms today although the majority have been modernised. 80p Little Chartres Bridge, Little Chartres Farm The Annual Colonial report of 1928 tells of a wooden bridge being built with a span of 120 feet across the Chartres River, near Little Chartres house, which runs into Chartres Creek. A ford, or pass, a little further downstream was not suitable at high tide for crossing with a flock of sheep, horse riders or later vehicles. The bridge was replaced with a new Bailey bridge after the road was upgraded between Port Howard and Fox Bay. £1 The Bull’s House, Lafonia A very small shelter, just large enough for one person, situated on the side of a valley. Folklore suggests this would have been used whilst waiting for cattle to cross the ditch in the valley below. £2 Whaling Station, New Island Christian Salvesen & Co of Leith, Scotland, operated the first, and last, shore-based whaling station in the Falklands from the south of New Island from 1908 until 1916, with three whaling vessels. There are many relics from the station still at the site, and graves of some Norwegians who were attached to the whaling station. Long rails run into the bay, upon which the very few whales were winched to the flensing or ‘cutting up’ area, then to the large vats to render the blubber into oil. The station closed due to the lack of whales and was transferred to the more lucrative whaling in South Georgia. £2.05 Stone Corral, Kelp Harbour,Goose Green Farm This corral is the most perfectly built one in the Islands, by Falkland Islands Company stone mason James Smith who was paid £29.7.0. The stones are well cut and square, a perfect stone circle with a smaller circle attached. It is also possible ‘Nippy’ Steel another mason was involved. Nearby Egg Harbour was the home in the early days of an employee who looked after the farm breeding mares, as well as undertaking cattle work, both utilising the corral. £3.60 Sheep Dip, Mount Rosalie, Port Howard Farm Sheep dips are long troughs, some above ground, others set into the ground, where sheep were immersed in a liquid solution to kill skin parasites such as ked, scab and ticks. The animals were encouraged to plunge into the dip liquid and swim to the other end of the trough from where they would scramble up a ramp into pens. Sheep dipping ceased in the 1970s as the various parasites had been eradicated. £5 Standing Man, Stanhope Hill, Weddell Island Stone cairns (standing men) were built mostly on high ground as wayfinders for travellers riding from one shepherd’s house or farm settlement to another. They were also useful as a stop for shepherds waiting for a flock of sheep to be driven past, to join the drive. To pass the time, the shepherd would often put more stones on the cairn. In the 1950s standing men were built on high ground or mountains by surveyors mapping the Falklands. These were built carefully and symmetrically centred over the trig station mark. Some, such as this one on Stanhope Hill, included an X shaped canvas marker which was used for the aerial photographic survey. With thanks to Joan Spruce and Nathalie Smith, Authors of Falklands Rural Heritage. Available from Hugh Osborne hughaosborne501@gmail.com Local Rate Booklet £3.30 Technical details: Designer Bee Design Photography Joan & Terry Spruce and Natalie & Colin Smith Printer bpost Security Printers Process Lithography Stamp Size 27.66 x 40.2mm Booklet Stamps 31.66 x 40mm (10 Local Rate stamps) Booklet Size 216 x 89mm (108 x 89mm folded) Perforation 11½ per 2cms Sheet Layout 20 (2 x 10) Release date 10 October, 2022 Production Coordination Creative Direction (Worldwide) Ltd... Read more...Falkland Islands – 25th Anniversary of the Lighthouse Seafarer’s MissionSeptember 7, 202225th Anniversary of the Lighthouse Seafarer’s Mission The Lighthouse Seaman’s Centre as it was originally known was formed resultant of a Christian vision by Mike and Kirsten Hughes – Now living in New Zealand. They both set sail from Grimsby in their twin mast vessel ‘King David’ arriving in Stanley Harbour they quickly recognized that for many Fishermen there was nowhere for them to go ashore. They very soon started to invite the men onto King David for tea/coffee and Kirsten’s specialty ‘Danish Pastries’. (Kirsten hails from Denmark). As things progressed two second hand portacabins were donated and land was provided, on the current site, for the portacabins to be placed and soon became the home of the Mission. Refreshments were a key issue and Kirsten set up a café for the public, thus raising much needed funds to ensure the mission was able to maintain itself. From the three churches in Stanley a Board of Trustees was formed which also included 2 lay members. Over the years the Mission has seen many different couples managing it and it has, in many ways had something of a roller-coaster ride in terms of Managers and Finance. In 2015 Betty Turner changed the Managing role into a Port Chaplain’s role – handing over the reins to Maurice and Debbie Lake. Who remain currently in post. In 2016 in recognition of the increasing needs for seafarers to have ‘their own place’ ashore, it was decided to close the Café to the public. Then in September 2017 the Lighthouse Seafarers Mission as it had become opened its doors on a 24/7 basis for Seafarers. A system which remains to this day. The two original portacabins have undergone complete refurbishment and currently provides full board accommodation for seafarers recovering from sickness or injury. Mission staff are trained and provide Welfare, Spiritual and Practical care. For many years we have received corporate sponsorship from the Falklands Fishing and Seafaring Industry together with annual subvention from Falkland Islands Government. Over the last 25 years the Mission has had connections with a number of UK Seafaring Charities and is held in high regard. Many of these charities have provided valuable funding to support and enhance the work of the Mission. The Lighthouse Seafarers Mission could not be written about without mentioning ‘MARLON’ the Mission dog. Marlon (full UK Kennel Club name: Sir Marlon Stanley Fitzroy) the Miniature Schnauzer is a wonderful asset to the mission, always there to welcome seafarers and be a comfort to them when they are struggling with sickness or injury. 33p, 80p, £1.10, £1.45 Technical details: Designer Bee Design Photography 33p Penguin News 80p & £1.10 Jo Summers £1.45 Ian France Printer Cartor Security Printers Process Lithography Stamp Size 42 x 28mm Perforation 13 ¼ x 13 ½ per 2cms Sheet Layout 10 Release date 20 September, 2022 Production Coordination Creative Direction (Worldwide) Ltd... Read more...Malta – 25th Anniversary Death of St. Theresa of CalcuttaSeptember 6, 2022MaltaPost plc marks the life of Mother Teresa by commemorating the 25th anniversary of her passing, with a specially designed stamp and a miniature sheet. Born Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu in Skopje, in 1910, Mother Teresa as she came to be known, was an Albanian-Indian Roman Catholic nun who spent most of her life in India. At 18 she left home to join the Sisters of Loreto at Loreto Abbey in Rathfarnham, Ireland, to learn English. She was intent on becoming a missionary and English was the language of instruction of the Sisters of Loreto in India. She arrived in India in 1929 and began her novitiate in Darjeeling, where she learned Bengali and taught at St. Teresa’s School, close to her convent. She took her first religious vows on 24 May 1931 and chose to be named after Thérèse de Lisieux, the patron saint of missionaries. Teresa took her solemn vows in 1937 while she was a teacher at the school in Entally, taking the style of ‘Mother’ in line with the Loreto custom. She served there for nearly twenty years and was appointed headmistress. Although Mother Teresa enjoyed teaching, she was increasingly disturbed by the poverty in Calcutta. In 1946, while travelling from Calcutta to the Loreto convent in Darjeeling for her annual retreat, she felt that she heard the call of her inner conscience, to serve the poor of India. She asked for and received permission to leave the school and began missionary work with the poor – replacing her traditional habit with the now recognisable simple, white, cotton sari with two blue borders. Four years later, joined by a group of young women, she founded the Missionaries of Charity in Calcutta – a religious community that would care for ” . . . all those people who feel unwanted, unloved, uncared for throughout society, people that have become a burden and are shunned by everyone”. Her community caught the attention of local officials who helped her open her first hospice by converting an abandoned Hindu temple. By 2012, her community had grown to over 4,500 nuns active in 123 countries. Today the congregation manages homes and outreach clinics for people who are dying of HIV/AIDS, leprosy, and tuberculosis. It runs soup kitchens, dispensaries, children, and family counselling programmes, as well as orphanages and schools. In 1979 she was the recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. Mother Teresa died in September 1997 due to heart failure and in 2016 was canonized by Pope Francis in St Peter’s Square, Vatican City. She remains one of the most widely admired personalities of the 20th century. This stamp and miniature sheet were designed by Shanice Farrugia. Date Of Issue: 05 Sep 2022Designer: Shanice FarrugiaPerforation: 14.2 x 14.1Process: OffsetSheet: Miniature sheet bearing one stampDenominations: €3.00Watermark: Maltese crossesSize: 120mm x 80mm... Read more...Portugal – The Lord of the RingsSeptember 6, 2022CTT Correios de Portugal have developed in partnership with Peter Jackson’s epic big screen adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy − filmed back-to-back and released over three consecutive years − a series of stamps featuring some of the most important characters from these films. It is an issue with four stamps with a face value of €0,57, €0,95, €1,00 and €1,05, and a philatelic souvenir sheet with a face value of 4 euros. The print run is 75,000 copies for each stamp and 25,000 souvenir sheets. This issue will release this year 2022.... Read more...Portugal – The First Portuguese Constitution of 1822: 200 YearsAugust 30, 2022The First Portuguese Constitution of 1822: 200 years The early 19th century in Portugal was characterised by the spread of liberal ideology, which was seen as a solution for regenerating the country. Political and economic crises created the conditions for the Liberal Revolution of 1820 and, consequently, the convening of the Constituent Cortes, which sat to approve Portugal’s first constitution. The Constituent Cortes of 1821-1822, inspired by the principles of the French Revolution, the American Constitution and especially the Spanish Constitution of Cádiz of 1812, made this the most remarkable of monarchical constitutions, enshrining the principles associated with the liberal ideals of the time: national sovereignty, parliamentary representation, separation of powers, legal equality and respect for personal rights. The first members of Parliament approved the Constitution, but that was not the sole function of the Cortes, which also exercised ordinary political and legislative powers, thereby embodying the establishment of the liberal order. It was against this background that the ground-breaking Press Law was passed, as well as the abolition of the Inquisition and amnesty for those imprisoned for political opinions. A minimum of one hundred MPs, with “one MP for every thirty thousand souls”, were elected through indirect suffrage in multiple election phases that involved parishes, districts and provinces. Thus was formed the first Portuguese Parliament – the General and Extraordinary Cortes of the Portuguese Nation –, which met for the first time in a preparatory session on 24 January 1821 in the Book Room at the Necessidades Convent, where the texts were vetted and the status and powers of each of the MPs legalised. The first session of the Cortes, held on 26 January, continued the work of legitimising the elected MPs and, in the hundreds of sessions that followed, work focused on analysing, discussing and approving Portugal’s first constitution, which culminated in the Bases of the Constitution being signed on 9 March 1821, these provisionally entering into force until the definitive constitutional text was finalised. The two copies of the Constitution were signed by the MPs at the sitting of the Cortes on 23 September 1822, and these same MPs took the oath to the constitutional text at the sitting of 30 September 1822. A few days later, on 1 October 1822, King João VI approved the Constitution and swore allegiance to it. The liberal ideals fostered by the revolution and set out in the Constitution of 1822 transformed the structure of the state and the way society was organised. Absolutist monarchic principles gave way to the principle of the sovereign nation and subjects became citizens, thus enjoying the principles of citizenship and freedom for the first time. It is therefore imperative, 200 years on, to remember the extraordinary work of these first MPs with a sense of emotion and responsibility, as today’s parliament is imbued with these values, upholding democratic principles! Technical Data Issue: 2022 / 09 / 23 Stamps: 0,57 – 75 000 2,75 – 75 000 Design: B2 Design Credits Stamps: 0,57 Artigo 1.º da Constituição portuguesa de 1822, Título I «Dos direitos e deveres individuais dos Portugueses». Photo: Miguel Saavedra/Arquivo Fotográfico da Assembleia da República, PT-AHF/ AF/R1733. 2,75 Artigo 2.º da Constituição portuguesa de 1822, Título I «Dos direitos e deveres individuais dos Portugueses». Foto/photo: Miguel Saavedra/Arquivo Fotográfico da Assembleia da República, PT-AHF/ AF/R1733. Fundo / background Primeira página da Constituição portuguesa de 1822. Photo: Miguel Saavedra/Arquivo Fotográfico da Assembleia da República, PT-AHF/AF/R1733. Alegoria à Constituição de 1822, óleo sobre tela, Domingos Sequeira, 1821. Coleção/collection: Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga. Photo: Luísa Oliveira/DGPC/ADF. Paper – FSC 110 g/m2 Size Stamps: 80 x 30,6 mm Perforation: 12 1/4 x 12 and Cross of Christ Printing – o.set Printer – bpost Philately & Stamps Printing Sheets – with 20 copies... Read more...Portugal – 20 Years of the EuroAugust 28, 202220 years of use of the euro Launched on 1 January 1999, the euro entered into circulation two years later, replacing the national notes and coins of 12 EU member states. The introduction of the euro was a significant milestone in the integration of the European economy. The euro simplified people’s day-to-day lives. It facilitated the free circulation of people, goods and services. It strengthened trade and economic integration. The euro is one of the key elements in economic convergence among member states. The euro is the most tangible and identifiable aspect of citizen participation in the construction of the European Union. The euro is, in itself, an element of unity. It is the currency of 19 member states, increasing to 20 from 1 January 2023, when we will be joined by Croatia. It is the currency of more than 340 million people and a symbol of European solidarity. The euro is an element of stability. By ensuring price stability and recognising the importance of financial stability, it creates conditions for balanced and inclusive economic growth. Portugal benefited from entering what was then the EEC, and the natural progression of this European integration was to adopt the euro from the outset. Over these last 20 years, the Portuguese economy has overcome financial crisis, the sovereign debt crisis and the pandemic crisis. In a Europe with an institutional model still under construction and, as such, imperfect, it was no mean feat to survive each of these crises. However, as the recent pandemic has proven, today, we have a more agile Europe with the ability to respond to such a colossal challenge. In the period after the sovereign debt crisis, the efforts made to reduce the risk to individuals, companies and the state were unparalleled. The budgetary and financial results in the country attest to this. Portugal’s economy is now more open, more integrated, more stable and more resilient. The coordination of economic policies during the pandemic crisis increased our awareness of just how much we benefit from being in the euro, and of what still needs to be done. The euro is our currency. Technical Data Issue: 2022 / 09 / 15 Stamps: € 0,57 – 75 000 € 0,95 – 75 000 Souvenir sheet with 1 stamp: G4,00 – 25 000 Design: Unidesign / Hélder Soares Credits Stamps: Anverso e reverso da moeda de 1 euro, emitida em 2002; face nacional desenhada por Vítor Santos. Anverso e reverso da moeda de 5 euros comemorativa dos 20 anos de circulação do Euro (2022); projeto original de José Aurélio. Fundo/background: Cunhos do anverso e reverso das moedas representadas. Photos: Casa da Moeda / Nuno Silva. Souvenir sheet: Cunho do reverso da moeda comemorativa «20 Anos de Euro» (2022), segundo projeto original de José Aurélio. Photo: Casa da Moeda / Nuno Silva. Brochure cover: Cunhos do anverso e reverso das moedas representadas. Photo: Casa da Moeda / Nuno Silva. Paper: FSC 110g/m2 Size: Stamps: 30,6 x 40 mm Souvenir sheet: 125 x 95 mm Perforation: 12 x 12 ¼ and Cross of Christ Printing: offset Printer: Cartor Sheets: tenant with 5 copies of each value... Read more...Åland – Christmas seals 2022August 28, 2022 2022 Christmas seals sold in support of Åland youth workers On 20 October, Åland Post issues this year’s sheet of Christmas seals for decoration of your Christmas cards and parcels. Illustrator Sami Saramäki has illustrated the self-adhesive stickers with well-known Christmas and winter symbols. As in previous years, proceeds from the sale are distributed to socially useful activities in Åland. This year’s beneficiary is “Fältarna”, a team of street workers working with and for teenagers. Since 1993, Åland Post has supported non-profit associations and relief activities in Åland through the sale of Christmas seals. The beneficiary of the 2022 Christmas seal grant is “Fältarna”, a team of community-based street workers working with and for teenagers aged 13–17. The youth workers strive to create safe connections and be a continuous support on the youth’s terms, and serve as a link between parents, school, social services, and police. Visiting schools, youth centres, and parent meetings and organizing youth groups, they offer teenagers an opportunity to discuss subjects such as domestic violence, drugs, alcohol, bullying, love worries, and loneliness. The grant will be used for study materials and activities for the teens. Sami Saramäki lives in Helsinki and has worked as an illustrator in the advertising industry for some 20 years. Sami often illustrates winter motifs and says: “For some reason, I’m often asked to illustrate winterscapes, but I don’t mind. I like winter, so, this assignment suited me perfectly.” Facts about the issue Name Christmas seals 2022 Date of issue 20 October 2022 Artist Sami Saramäki Design Johanna Finne Edition 3000 sheets of 20 self-adhesive seals Price €5.00 Size 30,6 × 25,8 mm Sheet size 210 × 145 mm Paper Sticotac Semigloss, White 80 gsm Process 4-colour offset Printer Cartor Security Printers The stamps are available for purchase in Åland Post Stamps webshop www.alandstamps.com.... Read more...Åland – Christmas 2022August 28, 2022Modern version of classic gnomes on 2022 Åland Christmas stamps Christmas starts early with the release of this year’s Christmas stamps on 20 October. Finnish illustrator Sami Saramäki debuts for Åland Post with a retro-inspired and poetic Christmas series. “I made several sketches, but those with small gnomes quickly became favourites, so, they became my focus point for the stamp motifs”, Sami reveals. Christmas is the holiday when we send most greetings by post. Scandinavians’ image of Christmas celebrations has been influenced by the card motifs. Many Christmas symbols have been around since the first cards were imported from England and Germany in the 1800s, introducing foreign traditions such as gnomes, Christmas tree, and presents to the Nordic peoples. Swedish artist Jenny Nyström’s illustrations of gnomes and Åland descendant Haddon Sundblom’s drawings of Santa Claus in the 1930s have also contributed to our image of Santa and his little helpers. For this year’s Christmas stamps, illustrator Sami Saramäki created a modern version of the classic gnomes. On one stamp, the gnomes are on their way to Åland with the Christmas mail, guided by the lighthouse on the island Sälskär, located northwest of main Åland. On the other stamp, they have taken a break from their delivery round at the 13th century St. Michael church in Finström. Sami describes his creative process: “I started by researching which visual elements would be suitable for traditional stamps. Those with small gnomes quickly became favourites. Pondering on different settings for the gnomes, I liked the Finström church and Sälskär lighthouse. I made 3D models of the church and lighthouse on my computer to better understand their forms.” Åland – Christmas 2022 Facts about the issue Name Christmas 2022 Date of issue 20 October 2022 Artist Sami Saramäki Design Johanna Finne Editions 130 000 & 45 000 Denominations Julpost (€1.20) & Världen (€2.60) Price FDC €4.80 Price maximum card €3.50 Stamp size 35,6× 25,5 mm Sheet size 2 × 20 stamps Paper 110 g/m2 Perforation 13 per 2 cm Process 4-colour offset Printer Cartor Security Printers The stamps are available for purchase in Åland Post Stamps webshop www.alandstamps.com.... Read more...Portugal – End of the First Circumnavigation Voyage 1519-1522: 500 YearsAugust 24, 2022The stamp issue “End of the First Circumnavigation Voyage 1519-1522: 500 Years” rounds off the series with which CTT Correios de Portugal marked the 5th centenary of the great voyage, not just as a way of highlighting the feat, but also in order to participate, at institutional level, with the official programme of commemorations. Issued in four instalments, linked to the same number of significant moments in the expedition, CTT Correios de Portugal presented a stamp collection of exceptional quality, in terms of both its shape and the content included, with which the Task Group for the Celebrations of the 5th centenary of the First Circumnavigation Voyage commanded by Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan | 2019-2022 has been associated since the outset. This final issue marks the end of the expedition and, as well as summarising the landmark moments that served as inspiration for the previous issues – with content alternating between text and images to describe these occasions –, it is presented in a circular format, which, although unusual for this type of support, alludes brilliantly and imaginatively to one of the main scientific achievements of the expedition – proving that the planet is spherical. Contemporary understanding of all the logistics involved, the level of confidence in the existing scientific and technological knowledge and the consequences of the feat itself justify the conviction that the expedition planned and led by Ferdinand Magellan – which, after being completed by Juan Sebastián Elcano, became the first circumnavigation of the Earth – was, in fact, the greatest, most fascinating nautical exploit in the history of humankind. It is a perfect symbol of all the exploratory voyages that broadened our vision and understanding of the world during the 15th and 16th centuries. In discovering the strait that bears his name, the point of entry to the great sea he called the Pacific, Ferdinand Magellan gave more sea to the sea and more world to the world. He presented humankind with an oceanic globe, allowing different peoples and cultures to come together, with different ways of looking at life, and giving us a hitherto unknown “Ocean Planet”. Five centuries later, Ferdinand Magellan’s legacy is a true work of heritage shared by all humankind and a symbolic and intellectual capital, the universality of which, still echoing today, is demonstrated by the fact that his name appears in diverse locations around the globe, in two galaxies close to the Milky Way, a species of penguin, and a space probe sent to orbit Venus, to name but a few. Revisiting this historic milestone provides, more than anything, an opportunity to deepen, spread and enhance the universal scientific-cultural dimension of the first circumnavigation voyage, as a work of common heritage of humanity. On this journey, we would like to thank and praise the invaluable contribution, partnership and dedication of CTT Correios de Portugal, with emphasis on the set of stamps created, which, as well as enriching the artistic heritage relating to the first circumnavigation voyage, also constitutes an excellent contribution to philately and is of unmistakeable patrimonial value in the context of the commemorations. Fernão de Magalhães Juan Sebastián Elcano Technical Data Issue 2022 / 09 / 08 Stamps 0,57 – 75 000 1,00 – 75 000 Souvenir sheet with 1 stamp. 4,00 – 25 000 Design Folk Design Papel FSC 110 g/m2 SizeStamps: 40 x 30,6 mmSouvenir sheet: Ø 130 mm Perforation. 12 1/4 x 12 and Cross of Christ Printing o¯set Printer Cartor Sheets with 50 copies... Read more...Åland – HareAugust 24, 2022Winter-strolling Åland hares on this year’s Chinese zodiac stamp issue 20 October sees a continuation of the odyssey of the Chinese horoscope animals in an Åland setting. On this ninth miniature sheet in the series, interpreting the Year of the Hare, artist Martin Mörck has illustrated hares in their winter-attire, roaming among modern holiday houses on northern Åland. Artist Martin Mörck was commissioned to illustrate the zodiac animal in an Åland winter setting. He explains: “White hare against white snow was the challenge. I thought of Bruno Liljefors and got to work. One of the modern cliff houses was to appear in the background, so, I used the reflections of the sea in the windows. I drew the water a little bluer than it might be at this time of year and a faint winter sun. It worked well as a contrast, and I could also use the blue tone for shadows in the snow. I gathered the hares in a small-talking group down by the reeds. The reeds became the warm element, along with the calligraphy. This time, there were no hidden details to discover, but I am very pleased with the result!” The mountain hare (Lepus timidus) is the only hare appearing in Åland. In the winter, they often roam among the modern holiday houses in northern Geta. The Havsvidden Resort with a guest harbour, hotel, and restaurant has been aorund for 30 years. In the early 2000s, the resort was expanded with modern cliff villas. Blending into the landscape among the red granite cliffs, the 40 cliff houses are equipped with 1–3 bedrooms, sauna, large terraces, and panoramic windows with sweeping views of the sea. Facts about the issue Name of issue Hare Date of issue 20 October 2022 Artist Martin Mörck Design Johanna Finne Calligraphy Ruizhen Liu Edition 25 000 Denomination €3.60 Price FDC €4.60 Price maximum card €3.50 Stamp size 60 × 50 mm Sheet size 170 × 95 mm Paper 110 g/m2 Perforation 13 per 2 cm Process 4-colour offset Printer Cartor Security Printers The stamps are available for purchase in Åland Post Stamps webshop www.alandstamps.com.... Read more...Portugal – 200 Years of Brazilian IndependenceAugust 23, 2022On 7 September 1822, on the banks of the river Ipiranga, near São Paulo, the famous cry rang out: “Independence or Death”. This was the symbolic announcement of the decisive step in the construction of Brazil as an independent nation. Under the aegis of the still reigning House of Bragança, Pedro, until then Prince Regent, assumed the political leadership that had been implicitly bestowed on him by the Brazilian nation, which, in January that year, had heard and echoed his no-less famous cry of “I will stay.” By declaring his intention to stay, thus opposing the appeal of the Constituent Courts gathered in Lisbon, Pedro adopted Brazil as his home, ready for his natural ascent to leadership of a new empire separated from its motherland. His proclamation as emperor took place soon after, on 12 October 1822. As a tutelary figure, he was fundamental in maintaining the political unity of a vast territory, as well as in shaping the social and political institutions of the Brazilian state under construction. Pedro I of Brazil returned to Portugal in 1831 as Pedro IV to support the liberal cause, which was close to his heart, at a time when the turmoil inherent in the return to an absolute monarchy was far greater than the slight disturbance felt in Brazilian political life as it searched for its horizons. Many were involved in the construction of this irreversible trajectory set in motion in that giddying year of 1822. Among the many protagonists who, in the Brazilian provinces, had expressed their disgust at the maintenance of colonial administration and powers, the firm and calm leadership of José Bonifácio de Andrade e Silva is worth highlighting. He was responsible for writing programmatic documents that were decisive in affirming the potentials of the emerging country, as well as being influential in persuading Pedro to join the Brazilian cause. In Portugal, on the eve of 7 September, the Courts were giving the finishing touches to the constitution, which still devoted a specific section to the organisation of the executive power of Brazil. At the same time, the Courts discussed provisions relating to trade relationships between Portugal and Brazil as parts of the same empire, with strong opinions expressed on the advantages of (or the offence caused by) resuming privileges protecting the exclusivity of the former colonial market. However, this possibility was no more than a mirage. Indeed, while it is true that Brazilian political independence stemmed from converging desires for emancipation and freedom from the former dominant power, there is no doubt that the legitimisation of a much-wanted process of political separation was in large part dictated by the growing economic autonomy that the Brazilian territory achieved from 1808, when the court of the future João VI settled in Rio de Janeiro as a result of the Napoleonic wars. The opening up of Brazilian ports to the powerful British merchant navy represented the end of an era of colonial exclusivity that made Brazil able to achieve its economic freedom, even if in order to do so it had to position itself under the influence of other international strategic interests. But the die had been cast. The union between Portugal and Brazil was weakened at its strongest link. Discontent in the kingdom stirred sentiments that came to embody the regenerative liberal movement, consubstantiated in the revolution of 1820. Two years were all it took for Brazil’s inevitable independence to be confirmed once and for all. Release date: 7 September 2022... Read more...Monaco – 500th Anniversary of Honoré 1erAugust 21, 2022When Lucien Grimaldi died in 1523, his son Honoré was only 9 months old. Hisuncle, Augustin Grimaldi, bishop of Grasse, is appointed regent. However, hedied in 1532. Honoré I, aged 9, reigned under the tutelage of Etienne Grimaldi, known as Gubernant. It continues the work of fortifications of the Rock carried out by Augustin, as evidenced by the door located at the top of the Rampe major marked with the initials of Lord HG and the Christian monogram IHS. Ten years after the completion of Porte Honoré I and with Nice threatened by the joint siege of King François I and the Turks, a new campaign of works is undertaken: the prow of the bastion of Serravalle is completed in 1545 and the Tower of All-the-Saints, in 1552. Drawing and engraving: Louis BOURSIERPrinting: Intaglio 6 COLORSStamp format: 40 x 31.77 mm horizontalCirculation: 40,000 stampsSheet of 10 postage stamps with illuminationsRelease date: 17 October 2022... Read more...Monaco – Football in QatarAugust 21, 2022The 2022 FIFA World Cup will take place in Qatar from November 21 to December 18. The unprecedented period in which the tournament will take place is linked to the climate of Qatar and the excessively hot weather prevailing there on the dates when the competition is usually held. In order to combat the extreme temperatures, Qatar has developed an air conditioning system in the stadiums. Six new stadiums have been built, including one, Stadium 974, which is fully removable and reusable, made from recycled shipping containers. Drawing: Christophe FORTPrinting: OffsetModel Stamp format: 30 x 40.85 mm verticalCirculation: 40,000 stampsSheet of 10 postage stamps with illuminationsRelease date: 17 October 2022... Read more...United Nations – The Great Spa Towns of EuropeAugust 20, 20222022 Word Heritage – The Great Spa Towns of Europe Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live with today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) seeks to encourage the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. This is embodied in an international treaty called the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, adopted by UNESCO in 1972. The Great Spa Towns of Europe is a World Heritage Site comprising 11 famous historic spa towns and cities in seven countries. Together, they make one “property” inscribed on the World Heritage List on 24 July 2021 as a transnational series. The Great Spas, in Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom represent a unique cultural phenomenon which reached its height in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, as well as a particular urban type and form. As a World Heritage Site, it has been given global recognition as a phenomenon which helped to shape Europe. 60¢ – Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic Karlovy Vary is known as the largest open-air salon of Europe, and has hosted royal families, European heads of state, aristocracy and prominent artists. It is distinguished by a geyser-like spring phenomenon and unique composition of thermal water, innovative methods in balneology (the study of therapeutic bathing and medicinal springs), and a prolific and outstanding architectural spa ensemble. The spa quarter follows the numerous hot springs that emerge in the Teplá (Warm) River valley and displays rich historicist and art nouveau styles of architecture. The surrounding spa landscape is characterized by terraced valley sides, extravagant villas, promenades and pathways, and solitary lookout buildings. Nowhere today is the “drinking cure” more evident than in the numerous beautiful colonnades, where thousands of daily visitors may be seen drinking from traditionally shaped porcelain cups. $1.40 – Montecatini Terme Italy Montecatini Terme, with its early distinguished role in the recognition of the medical properties of mineral water, is an important representation in a country rich in thermal springs. Attracting important intellectuals and artists, such as Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini and Ruggero Leoncavallo, the town is an ambitious revival project that transformed a late-eighteenthcentury garden spa into a landscape spa. Monumental spa architecture, centred on four main springs, can be found among an oasis of gardens, formal parkland and promenades. Greenery continues in a swathe of pine trees and terraced olive groves that, together with the historic funicular railway, ascend steep slopes crowned by Montecatini Alto – also the focal point of the central boulevard. With its eclectic spa architecture reinterpreted in Tuscan style, Montecatini Terme continues to serve as a centre for balneological treatment. CHF 1,10 – SPA Belgium Spa, Pearl of the Belgian Ardennes, played an important role, as early as the seventeenth century, in the recognition of the medical properties of mineral water. Its carbonated waters were ideally suited to drinking and have been widely distributed across Europe ever since, leading to the introduction of the name “spa” in the English vocabulary. Since the early eighteenth century, Spa’s many springs, located on a wooded hillside south of the town were used for both crenotherapy (a branch of balneology in which mineral waters are used as a therapeutic internal cure by ingestion) and physical activity, with a network of walks linking the various springs and connecting them to the town. Spa became internationally renowned as the Café of Europe, and a pioneer of gaming. From the second half of the nineteenth century, it was transformed into a modern spa resort with French classicist architecture. Today, thermal tradition and know-how is sustained by the addition of a new thermal centre overlooking the town. CHF 1,50 – Vichy, France Vichy, Queen of Spas, and France, greatly contributed to the creation of nineteenth-century European spa culture. It is the most prestigious and well-known French spa town, the model spa. Situated on a flat plain beside the River Allier, it combines Parisian urban principles with a spa promenade inside the city. Napoleon III encouraged the building of a new spa town laid out with parks and boulevards, a cosmopolitan Little Paris of grand bath complexes, pump rooms connected by covered promenades, casino and theatre, hotels and villas. The success of Vichy resumed after difficult times in the Second World War, and bottled water, reine des villes d’eaux, continued to be exported in large quantities worldwide. This further provides the basis for trademark cosmetics and skincare products of the Vichy Laboratories, the leading skincare brand in European continental pharmacies. € 1,00 – Baden-Baden, Germany Baden-Baden, known as the summer capital of Europe, was patronized by the ruling and cultural elite of nineteenth-century continental Europe. Situated on the western edge of the Black Forest, it became one of Europe’s largest and most fashionable spas with an unbroken tradition of using mineral water for healing from antiquity to the present. Reflected by the separate spa quarter, newly developed across the River Oos from the old town, it was here, in the Kurhaus and Casino, that Baden-Baden acquired a worldwide reputation as the supreme example of the German gaming spa. It was also a place of inspiration for major artists and works of universal significance. Today, balneological treatments and bathing continue with great popularity in both historic and new thermal establishments, while an outstanding tradition of music and theatre is vibrantly sustained. € 1,80 – Baden bei Wien, Austria Baden bei Wien is just 30 kilometres from Vienna, the historic seat of one of the world’s greatest imperial dynasties – the Habsburgs. Baden was one of their favourite summer resorts, known as a spa of emperors and a magnet for high-level politics. The town combines the classicist architecture of the beginning of the nineteenth century with the architecture and infrastructures of the turn of the twentieth century, when Baden became a world class spa resort. The spa district is centred on the spa garden that contains the Kurhaus, Trinkhalle, Sommerarena and music pavilion. The therapeutic and recreational spa landscape extends into a scenic terrain of hills and a valley that contain a distinguished belt of villas and parks. Musical heritage of outstanding universal significance is linked to one of the favourite workplaces of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven and Johann Strauss. Date of Issue: 9 September 2022 Designer: Rorie Katz Printer: Cartor Security Printing (France) Process: Offset Lithography Perforation: 14.5 x 14.25 Stamp size: 50mm x 35mm Stamps per sheet: 20 Quantities: Stamps 60¢ 4,500 sheets (90,000 stamps) $1.40 4,500 sheets (90,000 stamps) CHF 1.10 3,500 sheets (70,000 stamps) CHF 1.50 3,500 sheets (70,000 stamps) € 1,00 3,500 sheets (70,000 stamps) € 1,80 3,500 sheets (70,000 stamps) Prestige booklets New York 6,000 booklets Geneva 6,000 booklets Vienna 7,000 booklets Source: UNESCO... Read more...The Netherlands – Paleis Het LooAugust 18, 2022After a renovation of more than 4 years, Paleis Het Loo welcomes visitors again in its completely renovated rooms. PostNL celebrates the festive reopening of the museum with a majestic stamp sheet. This gives you an insight into the personal rooms of queens who lived and worked in the palace over the centuries. General director Michel van Maarseveen receives first copy Today, the general director of Paleis Het Loo, Michel van Maarseveen, receives the first copy of the special issue from Stephan van den Eijnden, commercial director of PostNL Mail. The stamp sheetlet was designed by Anne Schaufeli and Huub de Lang of studio026 from Velp. Their design takes you into the history of the palace on the basis of the rooms of queens who have played an important role in Apeldoorn during 3 centuries of court and country life. Queens in the lead role The stamp sheetlet has 10 stamps on which 5 royal rooms can be admired: the bedroom of Mary Stuart, the toilet room of Sophie van Württemberg, the sitting rooms of Emma van Waldeck-Pyrmont and Wilhelmina van Oranje-Nassau and the bedroom of Juliana van Oranje-Nassau . Schaufeli explains their choice: “We have chosen a room of each as it can be seen in the palace. With the furnishings from their time. Juliana, for example, lived there as a child, but not later. That is why only one bedroom of hers can be seen.” Personal details 2 stamps are dedicated to each queen: in addition to the overview photo of each room, a special detail is also in the spotlight. The details shown are a flower holder (Mary), a mirror (Sophie), a mantel clock (Emma), a table centerpiece (Wilhelmina) and a suitcase (Juliana). The overview photo and detail photo are alternately above and below each other, with each object telling something about the personality of the residents. For example, Anne Schaufeli says: “Mary was fond of Delft pottery, especially large tulip vases. The flower holder on the stamp is prominent in her bedroom.” Striking design language Designer duo Schaufeli and De Lang from studio026 were inspired for the design by the richness of the palace furnishings, with its many colours, ornaments and patterns. They used a pattern detail from each room as inspiration to shape the stamps. The patterns are graphically incorporated into the stamps as cut-outs from the photos, allowing you to see the details through the beautiful formal language of the palace. 3 centuries of history Het Loo Palace was originally built in 1686 as a summer residence for Stadtholder William III and his wife Princess Mary Stuart. When the couple became King and Queen of England, Scotland and Ireland in 1689, they built it into a sumptuous palace worthy of a royal couple. Until 1975, Paleis Het Loo remained in use as a summer residence and work palace for successive generations of the House of Orange-Nassau. It was then turned into a museum. Between 2018 and April 2022, the palace was closed to the public and underwent a major renovation that has fully restored the historic quarters. In the meantime, the renovation continues under the forecourt. The expansion of the museum will be completed in 2023. Opening hours Het Loo Palace Paleis Het Loo is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the summer holidays, the palace is also open on Mondays. Until August 18, the palace is the stage for the Princes and Princess Days, a fairytale dress-up party for the youngest visitors. Availability The stamp sheetlet Paleis Het Loo has 10 personal stamps in 10 different designs, with the value indication Nederland 1, intended for mail up to and including 20 grams with a destination within the Netherlands. The stamps are only available from 16 August 2022 via the webshop and from Collect Club customer service on telephone number 088 – 868 99 00. The period of validity is indefinite. available on ebay... Read more...The Netherlands – Leuvenum forestsAugust 18, 2022Today PostNL is issuing 10 new stamps in the Experience nature series with the subject of the flora and fauna of the Leuvenum forests. This 2,300 hectare nature reserve of Natuurmonumenten is located in the province of Gelderland, between Harderwijk, Nunspeet and Elspeet. The issue on the Leuvenum forests is the 4th and last of 2022 in PostNL’s nature series. Earlier this year, stamps were issued over the Fort Ellewoutsdijk nature reserves in Zeeland, the Nieuwkoopse Plassen in South Holland and the Sint-Pietersberg in Limburg. Forest, heath and sand The Leuvenumse Bos is the collective name for the Leuvenumse Bos, the Hulshorsterzand and the Leuvenhorst estate. The contiguous area is located in the northwest of the Veluwe and has been owned by Natuurmonumenten for more than 100 years. In addition to the extensive forests, there are large moors and sand drifts. There is a lot of game in the area and it is a breeding area for many different birds. swinging barrel Wijnand Francke, nature management coordinator at Natuurmonumenten, is an enthusiastic advocate of this nature reserve. He praises the vastness and the variety, with forest as well as heathland and sand drifts. “The long Leuvenumsche beek is really beautiful. Especially now that we have succeeded in giving the stream back its old winding course, with the occasional flooding that results.” Overlapping Circles The stamps about the Leuvenum forests were designed by graphic designer Frank Janse from Gouda, who is also responsible for the other issues in this series. On the stamp sheetlet, the 10 main characters were given a portrait in their natural environment, each on their own stamp. On the stamps, the designer shows how the plants and animals in the Leuvenum forests like to hide under, between and behind the trees. “You can also see that in the photography on the stamps. Direct sunlight is rare in the forest, the light is always filtered. Often the photograph was taken from a great distance or from very close by, which blurs the background.” Availability The stamp sheetlet Experience nature – Leuvenumse forests has 10 different stamps with the value indication Nederland 1, intended for mail up to and including 20 grams with a destination within the Netherlands. The stamps will be available from August 15, 2022 at the Bruna stores and via www.postnl.nl/bijzondere-postzegels. The stamps can also be ordered by telephone from Collect Club’s customer service on 088 – 868 99 00. The validity period is indefinite. available on ebay... Read more...United Kingdom – TransformersAugust 18, 2022REASON AND INSPIRATION The Transformers – alien robots who can change into vehicles, machinery and weapons – first appeared in toy shops and on TV screens in 1984. Nearly 40 years on, thanks to the addition of comic books, computer games and movies, the likes of Optimus Prime and Megatron have become pop-culture titans. The story of the heroic Autobots and the evil Decepticons has been told in many different ways, but the core premise is usually the same: a deadly civil war engulfs the distant metal planet of Cybertron and eventually spreads to Earth. Key to the warring mechanoids’ success in the UK and Ireland was Marvel UK’s The Transformers comic, which told an epic seven-year story across 332 issues.As well as launching the careers of British writers and artists, ‘TFUK’ inspired fans to follow in their footsteps, with James Roberts, Nick Roche and Jack Lawrence going on to help expand the mythos, establish the definitive origin of the Transformers and reinvent the Robots in Disguise for the 21st century with characters and concepts that endure to this day. STAMPS A set of eight stamps depicting the Autobots and Decpticons in battle scenes over four se-tenant pairsThe original illustrations have been created exclusively for Royal Mail by established comic artists Andrew Wildman (pencils), Stephen Baskerville (inks) and John-Paul Bove (colours)The stamps are printed with a hidden ink which reveals each of the character’s faction logos and names in the Cybertronian alphabet when shone under UV light There’s more than meets the eye with this special set of stamps; Each stamp will trigger a unique Augmented Reality animation including a clip from the original animated TV series. Download the Royal Mail App and choose Scan a Stamp to watch. Stamps – technical details FeatureType/DetailNumber of stampsEightValue of Stamps4 x 1st, 4 x £1.85DesignThe ChaseIllustrationsAndrew Wildman (pencils), Stephen Baskerville (inks) and John-Paul Bove (colours)AcknowledgementsTRANSFORMERS and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. © 2022 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved. Licensed by Hasbro.Stamp FormatLandscapeNumber per sheet30/60Stamp Size50mm x 30mmPrinterCartor Security PrintersPrint ProcessLithographyPerforations14 x 14PhosphorBars as appropriateGumPVA MINIATURE SHEET An additional set of 5 stamps are included on the Miniature Sheet, featuring the five Dinobots; Grimlock, Snarl, Slug, Sludge and SwoopThe original illustrations have been created exclusively for Royal Mail by established comic artists Andrew Wildman (pencils), Stephen Baskerville (inks) and John-Paul Bove (colours) who worked on The Transformers UK comic books Royal Mail Transformers Miniature Sheet Full-Set Miniature Sheet – technical details FeatureType/DetailNumber of stampsFiveValue of Stamps3 x 1st Class, 1 x 2nd Class, 1 x £1.85DesignThe ChaseIllustrationsAndrew Wildman (pencils), Stephen Baskerville (inks) and John-Paul Bove (colours)AcknowledgementsTRANSFORMERS and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. © 2022 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved. Licensed by Hasbro.Format, Size (Perforations)Slug and Snarl: 35mm x 35mm, square (14.5 x 14.5); Swoop and Sludge: 27mm x 37mm, portrait (14 x 14); Grimlock: 35mm x 37mm, portrait (14.5 x 14)Miniature Sheet Size190mm x 67mmPrinterCartor Security PrintersPrint ProcessLithographyPhosphorBars as appropriateGumSelf-adhesive The stamps are available to pre-order now at www.royalmail.com/transformers and by phone on 03457 641 641. The stamps go on general sale on 1 September, with the Presentation Pack, containing all 13 stamps, priced at £17.50.... Read more...Malta – Maltese Festa 2022August 15, 2022Annually religious feasts are celebrated across the Islands, mainly during the summer season. Traditionally each village, richly decorated for the occasion, celebrates a feast in honour of its own patron saint. The celebrations reach their peak when the statue of the patron saint is carried shoulder-high around the village streets. This issue of stamps is the sixth in the series. Bormla – Statue Of The Immaculate Conception This statue is believed to have been carved in carob-tree wood by the nun Marija Dedomenico, around the year 1680. Our Lady’s silver dress was made in Milan by Ghezzi e Figli designed by Abraham Gatt in 1905 , who in 1920 also designed the silver pedestal. Burmarrad – Statue Of The Immaculate Heart of Mary The church of Burmarrad was still under construction when the parishioners expressed a wish to commission the sculpture of a statue of Our Lady. A statue, carved in wood, was ordered from a firm in Spain and paid for by the Deguara family. Gudja – Statue Of Our Lady Of The Holy Rosary In 1922 the statue was crafted in papier-mâché by Anglu Dalli (aka Tas-Suffari) from Gudja. The platform and pedestal are the work of Manwel Buhagiar while the bench was made by Dwardu Teeling as sculpted by Toni Buhagiar. Ghajnsielem – Statue Of Our Lady Of Loreto In 1865 the cholera disease spread out in Gozo. The people of Ghajnsielem vowed that if the village were spared from this disease, they would commission a statue of Our Lady of Loreto. Given that in Gozo, it was only Ghajnsielem that was free of this disease, within a short time funds were collected for the statue to be ordered from the French firm Galard et Fils of Marseille which arrived in Gozo within a year. Ta’ Kercem – Statue Of Our Lady Of Perpetual Succour In 1897 the statue was crafted in papier-mâché by Gallard et Fils of France during the tenure of parish priest Fr Anton Debono and was paid for by Salvu Grech. Kirkop – Statue Of St. Leonard Abbot In 1949, the statue of St. Leonard Abbot was carved in wood and ordered in Ortisei, near Bolzano, Italy. The pedestal was designed by Guzeppi Galea from Victoria. Lija – Statue Of The Transfiguration Of Our Lord The statue is the work of the sculptor from Senglea, Charles Darmanin. It is crafted in papier maché and was completed in 1864. The pedestal was made on a design by the sculptor from Cospicua, Abraham Gatt. Marsa – Statue Of The Holy Trinity Designed by Guzeppi Galea of Victoria, Gozo, this statue was made in Ortisei, Bolzano, Italy, by F. Stufflesser. The sculpture on the statue began in January 1979 and completed in September 1979. Zurrieq – Statue Of Our Lady Of Mount Carmel The statue was carved in wood by the sculptor from Cospicua, Salvu Psaila in 1842. In 1854 two silver halos were installed in the statue while in 1872 the statue was restored by Master Micallef. Tarxien – Statue Of The Annunciation Of Our Lady This statue was carved in wood by the sculptor Xandru Farrugia (aka Mastru Xand) from Zejtun. This statue was completed in 1829, though in 1885 some modifications were made by Paul Bugeja of Valletta under the direction of Giuseppe Cali. In 2003 it was re-gilded by John Orlando under the supervision of the sculptor Renzo Gauci. Technical Details Issue Title: Maltese Festa – Series VIDate of Issue: 12 August 2022Value: €0.37Presentation: Set of 10 stampsSheet Size:182mm x 115mmStamp Size:31mm x 44mmPerforation: 13.9 x 14.0 (comb)Design: MaltaPost p.l.c.Photography: Mark Micallef PerconterPrinter: Printex Ltd.Process: OffsetWatermark: Maltese Crosses available on ebay... Read more...New Zealand – 2022 The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers 20th AnniversaryAugust 15, 2022After 12 long months of eagerly anticipating part two of the trilogy, in late December 2002 fans were rewarded with the release of The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. After the unbridled success of The Fellowship of the Ring, which was nominated for 13 Academy Awards, the second instalment had a tough act to follow. Nevertheless, the enthusiastic audiences for the sequel ensured it was not only the highest grossing film of that year but, at the time of its release, the third-highest grossing film of all time. The principal photography for all three The Lord of the Rings films took place in New Zealand from 11 October 1999 to 22 December 2000. New Zealand’s mountains, rivers, forests, fields and plains all played a part, and vast studio sets stood in for the more fantastical environments required to build the world of Middle-earth. Weta Digital, the creator of visual effects for the trilogy, doubled its staff for the vast post-production requirements presented by The Two Towers, with challenges that included a large-scale battle scene and the digital rendering of a speaking character. Thousands of everyday New Zealanders played a part in contributing to this film – from a stadium full of cricket spectators recording an Uruk-hai war cry, to local equestrians riding their horses as extras in the plains of Rohan. Most Kiwis will recognise at least one place as their New Zealand, whether it’s a favourite walking spot near their home or a family holiday destination. The Two Towers is part of a larger legacy left by the trilogy, which gave countless New Zealanders unique experiences, memories to cherish and stories to tell for generations to come. Date of issue: 7 September 2022... Read more...Slovakia – The 100th Anniversary of the National Firefighters’ Union of SlovakiaAugust 1, 2022The National Firefighter’s Union of Slovakia was founded on 6th August 1922 in Trenčín, with its headquarters in Turčiansky sv. Martin. During the founding congress, Vojtech Novák was elected as the first commander-in-chief of the Union and Miloslav Schmidt as the first deputy commander-in-chief. At the general assembly of the National Firefighters’ Union in 1926, Schmidt was elected as commander-in-chief. The principal task of the National Firefighters’ Union of Slovakia was the operational management of firefighting and the implementation of related technical developments. Its mission was reflected in its motto: “In praise of God and to help our neighbours”. Even today, this credo is still part of the flag of any Slovak fire brigade. An important project that has survived to this day, that cemented the reputation and position of Miloslav Schmidt among Slovak firefighters, was the construction of the Headquarters and Fire Training Centre (Hasičský dom) in Martin. The opening ceremony took place on the 12th October 1930. The ceremony was attended by firefighters from every corner of the country along with guests from abroad. In cooperation with the state authorities, the organisation, the Voluntary Fire Protection of the SR (VFP SR), which is the successor to the National Firefighters’ Union of Slovakia, plays an important role in fire protection. The mission of the VFP SR includes the education and training of the general population, and specifically, children and young people, in the ways that we can protect ourselves from fire and unwanted events, the execution of interventions, the preservation and enhancement of the historical and cultural heritage of firefighting, the organisation of sporting activities and competitions, as well as welfare, educational and enlightening and cultural activities. The basic operational unit of the VFP SR, today, and in the past, are the volunteer fire brigades. At present, in Slovakia, there are 2,189 volunteer fire brigades who have 79,762 members. These volunteer fire brigades are grouped into geographical districts within the VFP SR. The VFP SR has eight regional committees. Each region is represented in the VFP SR Presidium and each district organisation is represented in the VFP SR Council. The supreme authority of the VPF SR is the National General Assembly, which meets every five years. Date of issue: 5.8.2022 Face value: 2,00 € Dimensions: 44,4 x 27.2 mm Layout: Print Sheet Stamps on printing sheet: 10 pcs Stamps in set: 1 Author of Stamp design: Peter Augustovič Engraver: – Printer: Tiskárna Hradištko, s.r.o. Printing technology: Offset Circulation: 100 000 Author of FDC design: Peter Augustovič FDC Engraver: Jozef Česla Postmark design: Peter Augustovič FDC printing technology: Offset Specification... Read more...Slovakia – Sport: European Youth Olympic FestivalAugust 1, 2022 The XVI Summer European Youth Olympic Festival is going to be held in Slovakia. The games host was selected at the General Assembly of the European Olympic Committees (EOC) in Minsk (Belarus) in 2016. Although the city of Košice was originally selected to host the largest European multi-sport event for 14 to 18 year olds, the eastern Slovak city was forced to withdraw in March 2019 due to financial problems. Thus, Banská Bystrica was given the opportunity. Its application to host the EYOF was approved by the EOC on 18th May 2019. But then it became necessary to reschedule the event itself. It was postponed for a year to 2022 so that it dd not clash with the 2020 Olympics Games in Tokyo (Japan), which was delayed until 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This prestigious youth event returns to Slovakia after more than two decades. Its winter edition, at the time, the European Youth Winter Olympic Days, was hosted by the city of Poprad and the surrounding area back in 1999. So, this is the first time the summer version has been held in Slovakia. The Slovak Republic will be the 15th country to host the European Youth Olympics. “The athletics stadium in Štiavničky is going to be at the heart of the EYOF2022 Banská Bystrica. It is scheduled to take place from 24th to 30th July 2022 and more than 3,000 sportspeople will participate along with members of their management teams and officials from 48 European countries. The stadium in Štiavničky will be the venue for half of the sporting disciplines,” said Peter Hamaj, the Executive Director of the Organising Committee of the EYOF 2022 Banská Bystrica. In addition to Banská Bystrica, events will also take place at venues in Zvolen, Detva, Slovenská Ľupča and Badín. Although the city beneath Urpín hill was to host 11 sporting disciplines, the triathlon was dropped from the list. Thus, the participants in the EYOF 2022 will compete in athletics, badminton, basketball, road cycling, judo, handball, swimming, artistic gymnastics, tennis and volleyball. The opening ceremony will be held on 24th July 2022 in the area around the Memorial of the Slovak National Uprising. “Our goal is to organise an international event that will put Slovakia and Banská Bystrica on the sporting map of Europe,” said Ján Nosko, the President of the Organising Committee and Major of Banská Bystrica. Stamp dimensions33,9 x 26,5 mmForm of printing sheetTLStamps per sheet50Stamps in set1PrinterTiskárna Hradištko, s.r.o.Printing technologyOffsetCirculation1 000 000Specifications... Read more...New Zealand – Artwork from IHC Art AwardsAugust 1, 2022NZ Post’s new stamps showcase artwork from IHC Art Awards Four winning artworks from the IHC Art Awards L’affare People’s Choice Award (2019 – 2021) category will feature in NZ Post’s newest stamp release. IHC is New Zealand’s leading provider of services for people with intellectual disabilities and its Art Awards are an annual highlight for the organisation. The four artworks selected for the stamp collection are by Matthew Tonkin (2021), Katie McMillan (2020), Malachi Oldridge (2019) and Charlize Wilson (2018). NZ Post Collectables Programme and Content Manager Lynette Townsend says NZ Post is proud to support IHC by showcasing the talents of Kiwis with an intellectual disability. “These stamps allow the artists to tell their stories through their creations, and we feel honoured to be able to feature their outstanding artworks on our stamps and support these talented people,” Townsend said. The work of IHC Art Awards artists, especially the prize winners, is exceptional says IHC Programmes General Manager Janine Stewart. “The stamp issue recognises this and it’s great more New Zealanders will get to see their work.” This year the awards attracted entries from 412 artists from all over New Zealand. The top 100 artworks, selected by the judging panel made up of actor Libby Hunsdale, sculptor Simon Lewis Wards, and Student Volunteer Army CEO Sam Johnson, will go on display in a pop-up gallery at 69 Willis St, Wellington from 28 July. To see and purchase the full range of stamps visit collectables.nzpost.co.nz About the stamps: $1.70 Matthew Tonkin, ‘Aeroplane’ – Matthew’s screen print, the L’affare People’s Choice Award winner in 2021, was created at Two4nine art studio in Auckland. It is the result of his time spent mastering techniques and experimenting with colours and his own unique designs. $3.00 Katie McMillan, ‘Colourful Unicorn’ – “I love all the bright colours and making this. I hope when people see it, they are happy,” says Katie about her 2020 winning artwork, which is made from coloured acrylic pompoms over a paper-mâché support, mounted on a shield. $3.80 Malachi Oldridge, ‘My Nani as a Māori Girl’ – Malachi won in 2019 with a graphite pencil drawing on paper, paying tribute to his grandmother. The artwork is influenced by the late E. Mervyn Taylor’s artwork, ‘Māori Girl (Hina)’. $5.10 Charlize Wilson, ‘Looking Out from the Inside’ – Charlize was only 13 when she won the L’affare People’s Choice Award in 2018 for her acrylic piece. She says art helps her “be herself” and that she likes doing art, “because it’s so much fun”. available on ebay... Read more...Canada – Vintage CarouselsJuly 25, 2022Fun and fanciful new stamps celebrate Canada’s vintage carousels Five unique, historic carousels featured in whimsical stamp set CALGARY – Today, Canada Post released an enchanting set of stamps to celebrate the wonder and playfulness of vintage carousels in Canada. The vibrant stamps spotlight five historic carousels located across the country. The featured carousels are each known for their elaborately carved and beautifully painted animals. They also showcase the craftsmanship and mechanical ingenuity that were impressive for their era. Dating back to the 12th century, carousels were originally used as a military training game. By the mid-19th century, they had evolved into the beloved fairground ride that remains a nostalgic staple of amusement parks to this day. The stamp set features these five carousels: Lakeside Park Carousel (Lakeside Park, St. Catharines, Ontario) Built by Kremer’s Carousel Works circa 1903, this impressively large carousel boasts 68 animals and four chariots in four rows – and today still costs only a nickel to ride. Bowness Carousel (Heritage Park Historical Village, Calgary, Alberta) Built by Herschell-Spillman Co. in 1904, this is a very rare three-row track machine, where the horses’ rocking motion comes from eccentric drive wheels under the platform. C.W. Parker Carousel No. 119 (Burnaby Village Museum, Burnaby, British Columbia) Built in 1912 and now fully restored, this carousel features 36 jumping horses, four stationary horses, a chariot and music provided by a 1925 Wurlitzer band organ. Roseneath Carousel (Roseneath Fairgrounds, Roseneath, Ontario) Built by C.W. Parker in 1906, this was originally a portable carnival carousel. It is the only Canadian carousel to receive the National Carousel Association (U.S.) Historic Carousel Award – in 2010. Le Galopant (La Ronde, Montréal, Quebec) Built circa 1885 in Belgium, this was originally a travelling carousel powered by steam. It made its first Canadian appearance at Expo 67. About the stamps The stamps are designed by Paprika and feature illustrations by René Milot. Printed by Colour Innovations, each stamp depicts one animal from each of the featured carousels, with the location indicated at the bottom. The stamp issue is cancelled in Calgary, home of the Bowness Carousel at Heritage Park Historical Village. The cancellation is inspired by midway ride tickets. The stamp issue includes a booklet of 10 Permanent™ domestic rate stamps (the booklet is designed in the style of traditional circus, midway advertising posters), a souvenir sheet of five stamps, an Official First Day Cover and a set of five postcards. Stamps and collectibles are available at canadapost.ca and postal outlets across Canada. available at ebay... Read more...Falkland Islands – Stanley – Jubilee CityJuly 25, 2022On Friday 20 May 2022, it was confirmed that Stanley – capital of the Falkland Islands – had been granted official city status by Her Majesty The Queen, as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations. This followed a rigorous and detailed assessment process, presided over by an expert panel, which saw 39 applications put forward for this prestigious award, made all the more special given that 2022 celebrates the first British monarch to reach 70 years on the throne, as well as the 40th anniversary of the Falkland Islands War. MLA Pete Biggs, Chair of the Legislative Assembly, said: “We are utterly thrilled to have been chosen for this very rare award, which is granted by Queen Elizabeth II herself. The Falkland Islands is one of the most remote British Overseas Territories, but our distance only serves to strengthen the feelings of gratitude, love and respect, that we have for Her Majesty The Queen, as a vitally important and iconic figurehead for the UK and the Commonwealth. “This celebration of her extraordinary reign comes at a time when we in the Falkland Islands are equally reflecting on an extraordinary time in our own history, as we remember the events of 74 days in 1982 when we were invaded. For our small community it was an unprecedented time, but I am delighted that, 40 years on from those dark days, we are being recognised in this way – I think it goes to show just how far we have come in that time. In the past four decades we have built a thriving, prosperous nation, which continually looks to the future while respecting our past. “We are also especially delighted, as it is the first time that British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies have been allowed to apply for the title, which is why we jumped at the chance to take part. We have a very strong and long-standing relationship with the Royal family, whose visits have always been very well-received. Each time we have welcomed royalty to our shores, they have made a lasting impression on our home and in our hearts”. 33p, 80p, £1.13, £1.30 Technical details: Designer Bee Design Photography Christ Church Cathedral – Creative Direction (Worldwide) Ltd Secretariat Building – Creative Direction (Worldwide) Ltd Government House – David Cobb/Alamy Stanley Houses – robertharding/Alamy FDC Aerial View of Stanley – Sergio Pitamitz/Alamy Printer Cartor Security Printing Process Lithography Stamp Size 42 x 28mm Perforation 13 ¼ x 13 ½ per 2cms Sheet Layout 10 Release date 5 August, 2022 Production Coordination Creative Direction (Worldwide) Ltd... Read more...Portugal – World Youth Day Lisbon 2023July 16, 2022World Youth Day is a meeting of young people from all over the world with the Pope in a festive, religious and cultural atmosphere. With young people as its protagonists, World Youth Day (WYD) also seeks to promote peace, unity and fraternity between peoples and nations from all over the world. It is simultaneously a pilgrimage, a festival of youth, an expression of the universal Church and a powerful moment of evangelization for the world of youth. As a Catholic event, WYD Lisbon 2023 is open to all young people. It was instituted in 1985 by Pope John Paul II and, since its beginning, it has mobilised millions of young people of almost every nationality in the world. World Youth Day Lisbon 2023 is a celebration of the world that will take place, for the first time, in Lisbon, from 1 to 6 of August 2023. Some of the young people will arrive during the week before and they will be spread throughout the Portuguese dioceses. For a week, young people from all over the world will be welcomed in public infrastructures and parish facilities or in family homes. In addition to moments of prayer and sharing, the registered young people take part in various cultural, musical and sports initiatives in different locations in Lisbon. The highlights of WYD Lisbon 2023 are the celebrations with the presence of the Pope, namely the Way of the Cross, the vigil and, on the last day, the sending-off Mass. The motto chosen by Pope Francis for the XXXV World Youth Day Lisbon 2023 is Marian. “Mary arose and went with haste” (Lk 1:39) serves as the inspiration for the WYD hymn “There is haste in the air” and for the logo that appears on this special CTT collection, which celebrates this event, which is of particular importance for the city of Lisbon and for Portugal. WYD Lisbon 2023 is a unique opportunity for dialogue and cooperation between the Church and Civil Society and among all nations, for the construction of a more just and fraternal society, where everyone has a place. We are all called to live World Youth Day Lisbon 2023, as pilgrims, as a people and as community!... Read more...United Kingdom – BIRMINGHAM 2022 COMMONWEALTH GAMESJuly 16, 2022Royal Mail today revealed images of a new set of eight dynamic illustrated stamps being issued to mark the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, held in Birmingham and the West Midlands. Designed by artist Charis Tsevis, the vivid images feature illustrations of both male and female athletes competing in a selection of sports and para sports: Aquatics – Diving; Boxing; Para Table Tennis; Para Powerlifting; Gymnastics – Artistic; Cycling – Mountain Bike; Athletics; and Wheelchair Basketball 3×3.Royal Mail collaborated closely with Birmingham 2022 on all elements of the stamps and associated product range.Birmingham 2022 will mark two significant milestones in Commonwealth Games history: the first time a major multi-sport event will award more medals to women than men and the staging of the largest fully integrated para sport programme to date.Held in Birmingham and the West Midlands for the first time, Birmingham 2022 features 19 sports and eight para sports, with 72 nations and territories coming together to compete in 280 medal events. The 22nd edition of the Commonwealth Games, a mass celebration of sport throughout the Commonwealth dating back to 1930, takes place between 28 July and 8 August 2022. Royal Mail has a rich history of issuing stamps to mark the Commonwealth Games being held in the UK. The company has commemorated the British Empire Games 1925, Cardiff 1958, Edinburgh 1970, Edinburgh 1986, Manchester 2002 and most recently, Glasgow 2014, with Special Stamps as lasting souvenirs of the event for collectors and fans. David Gold, Director External Affairs & Policy, Royal Mail, said: “Royal Mail is delighted to be issuing these Special Stamps for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. The Commonwealth Games is one of the biggest multi-sport competitions in the world and it’s fantastic to have the event take place in the UK. These colourful Special Stamps will be our lasting reminder of the occasion.”Ian Reid, CEO at Birmingham 2022, said: “These very special stamps will be a perfect reminder of the excitement and thrill people will have by being part of Birmingham 2022. The commemorative sets are a wonderful way to celebrate the Games and for the whole country to get involved in Birmingham 2022 and our festival of sport and culture!” David Leather, CEO of CGF Partnerships, said: “We are proud that the CGF and Birmingham 2022 have been able to work with Royal Mail to produce these Special Stamps to mark the occasion for the 22nd edition of the Commonwealth Games. It is fantastic to see the rich history of the Royal Mail and the Commonwealth Games continue for Birmingham 2022, as well as offering fans the opportunity to recall wonderful moments and carry memories of each Commonwealth Games.” About the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, which will be held from 28 July until 8 August 2022, will be a once in a lifetime opportunity to put the city, the region and its people on the global stage. The Games is already proving to be a catalyst for transformation across the West Midlands, attracting new investment and funding, creating jobs and apprenticeships for local people and new opportunities for local businesses, as well as accelerating projects that will ensure the region is ready to host a fantastic sports and cultural celebration. Birmingham 2022 will be the Games for everyone, bringing people together from across Birmingham and the region, to provide a warm welcome to millions of visitors during the summer of 2022. Find out more at www.birmingham2022.com available on ebay... Read more...United Nations – World Humanitarian DayJuly 15, 2022On 19 August 2003, a bomb attack on the United Nations office in Baghdad, Iraq, killed 22 humanitarian aid workers. Five years later, the General Assembly adopted a resolution designating 19 August as World Humanitarian Day to express solidarity with people affected by conflicts or natural disasters and pay tribute to the humanitarian workers who help them. Each year, World Humanitarian Day brings together partners from across the humanitarian system to raise public awareness of humanitarian work; to advocate for the survival, well-being and dignity of people affected by crises; and to call for the safety and security of aid workers. This year, on 19 August, UNPA will issue three stamp sheets for World Humanitarian Day, featuring beautiful artwork by award-winning illustrator Olga Shtonda from Kharkiv, Ukraine, to raise awareness and funding for humanitarian action. A surcharge will be added to the stamps, which will go directly to the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to help people in need. Managed by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), donating to CERF is one of the fastest ways to get urgent aid to the world’s most vulnerable people whenever and wherever crises hit. From Ukraine to Yemen and beyond, CERF funding reaches millions of people trapped in disasters and conflict, allowing humanitarian partners to save lives by providing urgently needed food, water, health care and much more. Find out more about World Humanitarian Day at https://about.worldhumanitarianday.org Donate to CERF: https://crisisrelief.un.org/cerf. Humanitarian day fullsheets2 Humanitarian day fullsheets3 ABOUT THE ARTIST Olga Shtonda is an illustrator and artist from Ukraine. She studied Graphic Arts at Kharkiv Design and Arts Academy (2009ª2015), where she fell in love with printmaking techniques and textures, which greatly influenced her style. Olga has received awards at many international illustration competitions. In 2019 she won the Ars in Fabula Grant Award and it gave her the opportunity to study in Italy and get the master’s degree in editorial illustration. She is constantly learning and loves to apply her knowledge of illustration in a wider range of fields, for example, animation. Her illustrations adorned children’s books, book covers, board games, music posters, etc. Olga enjoys working with textures and vibrant colours, but most of all she appreciates humor in her illustrations. In between illustrating, she loves traveling, riding her bicycle and observing people. It always helps Olga to collect materials, stories and ideas as inspiration for her next artworks. Her works are highly inspired by humans and nature. They are fun and cheerful because she likes to make people smile.... Read more...Malta – EUROMED 2022July 11, 2022MaltaPost has again this year joined members of the Euromed Postal Joint Stamp Project in the issue of a set of stamps bearing a common theme. This is an annual commitment along the lines of the EUROPA stamp issue. The theme for 2022 is Maritime Archaeology & Historic Cities of the Mediterranean and in this regard MaltaPost has produced two stamps both related to Gozo. The stamp on marine archaeology reproduces an image of a shipwreck off the coast of Xlendi Bay, by the University of Malta / Dave Gration Project that took upon the discovery and excavation of the site in 2007 and subsequently explored in 2014. This ancient shipwreck was found to include a 15m long Phoenician trading vessel dating to the 7th century, together with a handsome cache of ceramic amphorae lying partially exposed on the seabed. Given the date of the wreck, the site was considered to be extremely well preserved. In 2014, marine archaeologists used an exploratory submarine with instruments and sensors that provided 3D photogrammetric images. The second stamp shows a marked departure from the usual depictions of Gozo’s Citadel. This portrays the bell tower of the handsome baroque cathedral and surrounding buildings, lit up against a dusky sky, and in the foreground the dry-stone walling so characteristic of the Mediterranean. Typical of a fortified city, the Citadel stands out as Gozo’s primary landmark. It is rich in buildings of architectural, military, and historic value including the Law Courts, churches, the Bishop’s Palace, a handful of museums, grain silos and the Old Prisons. Now a major tourist attraction, a walk around the well-preserved outer walls of the citadel leads to commanding views of the surrounding countryside and urban areas. Date Of Issue: 11 Jul 2022Designer: Maritime Archaeology – University of Malta / Dave GrationPerforation: 14.0 x 13.9(comb)Process: OffsetSheet: Set of 2 stampsDenominations: 20c and €5.00Watermark: Maltese CrossedSize: Sheet Size 118mm x 185mm Stamp – Size 44mm x 31mm... Read more...New Zealand – Māori Language PetitionJuly 11, 2022Statement NZ Post on 3 August 2022 We’re writing to notify you that the stamp issue titled ‘Māori Language Petition’ will not be issued on 3 August 2022 as previously announced. This decision has been made following additional feedback from key stakeholders that was received after products were printed. While extensive consultation took place in the development of the designs, some expectations were not met and as a result the stamps cannot be issued in their current form or on the planned date.We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience or disappointment caused by this decision. The 50th anniversary of the presentation of the Māori Language Petition is an important commemoration for New Zealand, and we hope to acknowledge it at a future date. Details For most of the 20th century, New Zealand‘s governments discouraged and banned people from speaking openly in the Māori language (te reo Māori). Then 50 years ago, te reo champions calling for it to be taught in schools presented the Māori Language Petition to Parliament. The petition carried the signatures of more than 30,000 New Zealanders. In 1972, 14 September became Māori Language Day, an occasion that eventually expanded to what we know today as Māori Language Week. The peaceful protest also led to the successful te reo Māori claim (WAI 11) to the Waitangi Tribunal and the enactment of the Māori Language Act 1987. The Act recognised te reo as an official language of our country and created the Māori Language Commission (Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori). As well as marking 50 years since the presentation of the Māori language petition to Parliament, there are several other significant milestones for te reo Māori in 2022. It will be 35 years since te reo became an official language and Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori (Māori Language Commission) began, 50 years since the launch of Māori performing arts festival Matatini and 40 years since the launch of kōhanga reo, an early childhood Māori language education and care service. In 2022 we will also see Matariki Day, the first public holiday to acknowledge te ao Māori, which the Māori Language Commission began lobbying for more than 20 years ago. Matariki celebrates the first rising of the Pleiades star cluster and marks the beginning of the new year in the Māori lunar calendar. The 50th anniversary of the presentation of the Māori Language Petition at Parliament is led by Te Whare o te Reo Mauriora with Te Mātāwai guiding iwi and Māori initiatives and Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori (Māori Language Commission) leading government initiatives. Date of issue: 3 August 2022... Read more...Hungary – 150th anniversary of the birth of Gedeon RichterJuly 4, 2022Gedeon Richter (1872-1944) was a Hungarian pharmacist and the founder of the modern Hungarian pharmaceutical industry. After the death of his parents, he was brought up in Gyöngyös, where he became an apprentice pharmacist in 1890. In 1895, he obtained a degree in pharmacy from the University of Budapest. Two years later, he travelled abroad and studied pharmaceutical production methods in several European pharmacies. In 1901, he bought the Eagle Pharmacy on the corner of Üllői Street and Márton Street in Budapest, establishing his own company and laying the foundations for pharmaceutical production in Hungary. In 1907, he built the first pharmaceutical factory in Hungary at 63 Cserkesz Street in Kőbánya, Budapest, which he ran as the chief executive. The factory’s success is demonstrated by the fact that it had already been granted 24 patents for medicines by the outbreak of the First World War. By the beginning of the Second World War, the factory had a network of representatives on five continents and 10 subsidiaries. In 1942, Richter was stripped of his position as chief executive and banned from the factory under the Jewish laws. From then on, through his trusted associates, Richter illegally managed the company from his home. In the autumn of 1944, the operation of the factory ground almost to a complete halt. At that time Richter had the chance to leave for Switzerland, but he refused to abandon his country and his company. On 30 December 1944, Gedeon Richter became a victim of the Arrow Cross regime, and was executed along with many other of his Jewish compatriots on the banks of the Danube. The stamp features a portrait and the signature of Gedeon Richter, as well as the former factory building in Cserkesz Street. The Richter Gedeon Chemical Research and Office Building, which won the Budapest Architectural Award (designed by Gábor Zoboki, Éva Oláh and Zoltán Tóth of Zoboki Design and Architecture), appears on the commemorative first day cover. Photos by Gábor Bodó. A detail of the trademark of an organotherapy product which used to be produced by the Richter Gedeon factory is featured in the design of the commemorative postmark. Issued on: 1 July 2022Face value/selling price:HUF 630 (On the date of issue, this can be used as a supplementary denomination.)Printing technique:4 coloursNumber of copies: 50,000(50 stamps and 5 barcodes per sheet)Perforated size: 40 x 30 mmExternal imperforated size of souvenir sheet: 160 x 88 mmPaper type: White, wood-free, surface-treated, gummed stamp paper with optical whitenerPrinted by ANY Nyrt. (stamp);Codex Zrt. (FDC)Source: Richter Gedeon Nyrt.Designed by Zsuzsanna Czirják-Nagy... Read more...Hungary – 200th anniversary of the birth of Count Menyhért LónyayJuly 4, 2022Dr Menyhért Lónyay, Count de Nagylónya et Vásárosnamény, (Nagylónya, 6 January 1822 – Budapest, 3 November 1884) was a Hungarian aristocratic politician from the Lónyay family. He was first elected as a member of the Hungarian Diet in 1843 and, in 1849, he became State Secretary for Finance in the government of Bertalan Szemere. He then returned as a member of the Diet from 1861 onwards. He played a major role in the preparation of the 1868 Compromise between Austria and Hungary, and was appointed Hungarian Minister of Finance in the government of Gyula Andrássy. During his ministry, the Customs and Excise Department was formed and he established the practice of the budget. His programme included reducing the tax burden and encouraging investment beneficial to the state. On 21 May 1870, he was appointed Minister of Finance of Austria-Hungary and moved his base to Vienna. On 3 August 1871, he was made a count by Emperor Franz Joseph. At the end of 1871, he became Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Hungary, but was forced to resign on 2 December 1872 due to continued attacks by the opposition. He became a member of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in 1858 and its president from 1871 until his death. In 1880, he was awarded an honorary doctorate in political science from the University of Budapest. As president of the Felsőszabolcs River Tisza Management Company, he played a role in the flood control of the river Tisza, and later the Lónyay main canal was named after him. His name is associated with the construction of the Nyíregyháza-Ungvár railway line and he also served as the chief administrator of the Dunamellék Reformed Church District. An oil painting of Count Menyhért Lónyay by Gyula Benczúr, his coat of arms, and the building of the Lónyay Mansion in Tuzsér are shown on the stamp. A lithograph of Menyhért Lónyay by Miklós Barabás and the logo of the bicentenary year appear on the commemorative first day cover. The design of the special postmark features the signature of Count Menyhért Lónyay. The stamp and the first day cover were designed with the involvement of the Public Foundation for the Municipality of Tuzsér, which is the standard bearer of the Lónyay 200 Commemorative Year. www.lonyay200.hu Issued on: 1 July 2022Face value/selling price:HUF 780 (On the date of issue, this can be used as a supplementary denomination.)Printing technique: offsetNumber of copies: 20,000 (50 stamps and 5 barcodes per sheet)Perforated size: 30 x 40 mmPaper type: White, wood-free, surface-treated, gummed stamp paper with optical whitenerPrinted by ANY Nyrt. (stamp);Codex Zrt. (FDC)Source: Hungarian National Museum, Hungarian National ArchivesPhotos by Csaba CsutkaiDesigned by Barnabás Baticz... Read more...Hungary – 800th anniversary of the proclamation of the Golden BullJuly 4, 2022The Golden Bull is a charter with a golden seal issued by King Andrew II of Hungary at the diet of Székesfehérvár in 1222. This was the first document establishing the constitutional rights of the country’s nobility. A clause granting the nobility the right to resist the king without committing treason if he acted contrary to the law guaranteed that the monarch abided by the provisions of the Bull. All seven originals have been lost, but the text survives in many sources. The Golden Bull, together with its subsequent impact, is one of the pillars of the development of the Hungarian constitution and the emergence of parliamentarism. This charter of liberties, later often cited as the basis of the rights of the estates, was an important milestone in the history of Hungarian law as it limited royal power and guaranteed the rights and privileges of the nobility. Its determining influence lasted for centuries. With the passage of time, the laws of later ages derived from it extended to the whole of Hungarian society. The charter takes its name from the royal seal of authentication, i.e. the bull, which hangs on it. The pendent golden seal has a design on both sides, the front showing the figure of the king seated on the throne, holding a fleur-de-lys tipped sceptre in his right hand and an orb surmounted by a cross in his left. The monarch, flanked on either side by the sun and moon, symbols of the universe, wears an open fleur-de-lys crown. On the reverse of the seal is a shield with seven bars. In the raised, even fields are figures of lions.The central part of the souvenir sheet shows Béla Kontuly’s fresco secco, Andrew II – The Proclamation of the Golden Bull (Hungart © 2022), which adorns the wall of the main hall of the City Hall in Székesfehérvár. The composition is completed by the front and reverse of the golden seal of Andrew II and a detail of the charter. The fresco secco appears on the souvenir sheet’s commemorative first day cover and the postmark is a stylised drawing of the front the seal. Issued on: 24 June 2022Face value/selling price:HUF 1,200 (On the date of issue, this can be used as a supplementary denomination.)Printing technique: offsetNumber of copies: 50,000 black numbered perforated souvenir sheetsPerforated size: 40 x 30 mmExternal imperforated size of souvenir sheet: 160 x 88 mmPaper type: White, wood-free, surface-treated, gummed stamp paper with optical whitenerPrinted by Pénzjegynyomda Zrt. (souvenir sheet); Codex Zrt. (FDC)Source: National Archives of Hungary (seals and charter)Photos by Erika SimonDesigned by Barnabás Baticz available on ebay... Read more...Hungary – 150th anniversary of the foundation of GYSEV Zrt.July 4, 2022Magyar Posta is marking the 150th anniversary of the foundation of GYSEV Zrt. by issuing a commemorative stamp. The new issue designed by graphic artist Imre Benedek was produced by ANY Security Printing Company, and will be available at first day post offices and Filaposta in Hungary and may also be ordered from Magyar Posta’s online store from 10 June 2022. GYSEV Zrt. (Győr–Sopron–Ebenfurti Vasút Zártkörűen Működő Részvénytársaság) is a dynamically developing, integrated railway company operating in West Transdanubia and Eastern Austria managing a railway infrastructure of 509 kilometres in Hungary and Austria. The registered office of the company is in Sopron, while its Austrian headquarters is located in Wulkaprodersdorf. The foundation of the company was ratified by Act XXVII of 1872. The inaugural meeting of the public company was held in Budapest on 1 February 1875. The first section of the railway line opened between Győr and Sopron on 2 January 1876. The section between Sopron and Ebenfurth was opened for service on 28 October 1879. Today, GYSEV operates railway lines in two countries, performs passenger transport by rail in Hungary and Austria, and carries out rail freight transport across Europe. The stamp depicts the former locomotive of GYSEV with track number 113 already operating at the end of the 19th century, as well as a modern tractive vehicle, the Siemens Vectron. The background printing features a map fragment, while the larger towns and cities of the Győr–Ebenfurth railway line are displayed above the composition. The envelope dedicated to the occasion depicts one of the newest locomotives of GYSEV, Siemens Vectron with track number 471 002, as well as the logo of the jubilee, the latter also being an element of the stylized design of the special postmark. Issued on: 10 June 2022Face value/selling price:HUF 715 (On the date of issue, HUF 715 is equivalent to postage for a priority letter up to 50 g with non-dutiable content, or postcard or picture postcard to countries within the European Union customs border and European countries outside the European Union customs border.)Printing technique: offsetNumber of copies: 30 000 pcs (50 stamps and 5 barcodes per sheet)Perforated size: 40 x 30 mmPaper type: White, wood-free, surface-treated, gummed stamp paper with optical whitenerPrinted by ANY Nyrt. (stamp); Codex Zrt. (envelope)Source: GYSEV Zrt.Designer: Imre Benedek Available on ebay... Read more...Malta – Malta Meteorological Office Centenary 1922 – 2022July 3, 2022The issue of this set of three stamps is intended to raise awareness about the work carried by the Malta Meteorological Office, which this year celebrates 100 years from its inception. The Meteorological Office is Malta’s primary source for weather-related information. Over the past century, our Meteorological Office, which is in fact the only official meteorological office on the Islands, has been providing critical information which has been crucial for the wellbeing of our community and the safe day-to-day operations of various industries. July 1922 saw the opening of the first Meteorological Office in Malta, under the management of the UK Air Ministry. It was initially based in Guardamangia and fell under management of the Royal Air Force (RAF). With the onset of the Second World War the meteorological team moved underground for reasons of safety and security during air raids. It was only in 1942 that an observation station was opened at the Luqa airfield, expanding to a weather forecasting office a year later. In April 1979, the service was passed on to the Civil Aviation Department, 19 years later falling under the remit of Malta International Airport. The team of forecasters, observers, and administrators at the Meteorological Office in Luqa is also responsible for issuing weather forecasts and safety notices to the public, as well as adapting weather data for different entities whose operation depends on accurate meteorological information. By the introduction of modern technologies, the Meteorological Office provides a more detailed and accurate picture of the weather in Malta, allowing constant updates and careful tracking of different weather systems. Most recently, an Automated Weather Observation System was installed together with more sensitive field sensors and an upgraded radar imaging system to provide meteorologists with detailed and accurate weather analysis in real time. While technologies and equipment may improve over the years, meteorologists will continue to play a critical role in interpreting data and converting this same data into insight and occasionally life-saving advice. Date Of Issue: 01 Jul 2022Designer: Malta International AirportPerforation: 13.75 x 13.75 (comb)Process: offsetSheet: Set of 3 stampsDenominations: €0.07, €0.37 and €1.25Watermark: Maltese CrossesSize: Sheet Size 205mm x 100mm – Stamp Size 35mm x 35mm Available on ebay... Read more...Romania – International Danube Day June 30, 2022Every year on 29 June, under the auspices of the International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River (ICPDR), the International Danube Day is celebrated. This day was established to mark the signing of the Convention on Cooperation for the Protection and Sustainable Use of the Danube River at a meeting held on June 29, 1994 in Sofia (Bulgaria). On the occasion of this event, Romfilatelia will introduce into circulation the International Danube Day postage stamps issue, on Wednesday, 29 June, this year. The issue, consisting of four postage stamps, four minisheets and two First Day Covers, in which the following species of the Danube fauna are illustrated alongside beautiful landscapes with water lilies in the context of biodiversity: the sand martin, the Eurasian spoonbill, the otter and the hazel dormouse. The sand martin (Riparia riparia), illustrated on the stamp with a face value of Lei 4, is the smallest species of swallow found in the Danube river basin. The Eurasian spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia), depicted on the stamp with a face value of Lei 6.50, is a large, rare, beautiful bird with a “finery” that naturally attracts human admiration. The otter (Lutra lutra), which is illustrated on the stamp with a face value of Lei 10, lives in a wide variety of aquatic habitats from low-lying areas to the mountains. The hazel dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius) is illustrated on the stamp with a face value of Lei 10.50. Approximately the size of a house mouse, the hazel dormouse is an excellent climber and jumper. The philatelic issue will be available starting Wensday, 29th of June, in Romfilatelia’s shops network in Bucharest, Bacau, Brasov, Cluj-Napoca, Iasi and Timisoara, online on https://romfilatelia.ro/store/ for Romanian orders and for international orders at: https://www.wopa-plus.com/ or get in contact with Romfilatelia S.A. at https://www.romfilatelia.ro/en/contact_en/. Romfilatelia thanks the Ministry of Environment, Waters and Forests and the “Grigore Antipa” National Museum of Natural History for the documentary support provided for the development of this postage stamps issue. Image: Copyright © 2022 Romfilatelia – O lume intr-un timbru... Read more...Åland – Tick-borne disease research in ÅlandJune 30, 2022Stamp focuses on tick-borne disease research in Åland To spread knowledge about ticks, Åland Post spotlights the research in Åland into tick-borne diseases with an issue on 6 September. Tick-borne diseases are increasing worldwide, and Åland has one of the highest incidences of infections. Åland researchers have made important contributions to this field of research and developed much of the diagnostics used today. Åland illustrator Peter Bergström took on the task to illustrate the stamp motif. On a background of elongated spirochetes of the bacterium borrelia, the stamp shows an adult female tick and a schematic picture of antibodies, which laboratory technicians try to detect when analysing blood samples. The spirochetes are also reminiscent of the swaying grass in which ticks often sit, waiting for people and animals to pass. Borrelia burgdorferi is the name of the bacterium that ticks can carry and transmit through bites. The common tick Ixodes ricinus thrives in moist and shady places with dense undergrowth. The best way to protect yourself from ticks is to wear light clothing when in damp terrain and to keep the grass short. Still, less than 10% of ticks carry bacteria, and the infection is not always transmitted. The risk of infection is almost non-existent if you remove the tick within 24-48 hours after being bitten. Åland is a high-risk area for tick-borne diseases, which occur in large parts of the world and have become a public health problem in both the USA and Europe. Lyme disease is the world’s most common tick-related disease. Research in Åland has been dominated by finding a reliable method for detecting active Lyme disease. Illustrator Peter Bergström thought long and hard prior to accepting the challenge of illustrating the blood-sucking arachnid: “I hesitated to take on the task for a long time. It’s a difficult and not very image-friendly motif. In the end, Åland Post convinced me, pointing out the importance and urgency of the subject.” Facts about the issue Name of issue Tick-borne disease research Date of issue 6 September 2022 Artist Peter Bergström Design Johanna Finne Edition 45 000 Denomination €2.70 Price FDC €3.70Stamp size 30×40 mm Sheet size 2×12 stamps Paper 110 g/m2 Perforation 13 per 2 cm Process 4-colour offset + UV-coating Printer Cartor Security Printing The stamps are available for purchase in Åland Post Stamps webshop www.alandstamps.com.... Read more...Åland – Sea-buckthorn juice from Åland June 28, 2022Sea-buckthorn juice from Åland – a postage stamp vitamin boost This year’s theme for the Sepac stamp series issued by the small European postal administrations is locally produced beverages. As stamp motif, Åland Post decided to highlight sea-buckthorn, Åland’s own super berry. A varied range of sea-buckthorn beverages is produced in Åland. Tiina Tahvanainen has photographed the motif of the stamp to be issued on 6 September. Åland is one of a few areas in Finland where sea-buckthorn grows in the wild. The wild shrubs grow in dense stands and thrive best on stone and gravel beaches. The thorny branches make the berries difficult to pick. The small orange, juicy and sour berries of the sea-buckthorn ripen in the autumn and contain high amounts of beneficial vitamins, antioxidants, and fats. Squeezed from the berries, the raw juice is used as such, but also as the base of jams, marmalades, syrups, and ice cream. The fruit pomace is also used in various products. Photographer Tiina Tahvanainen enjoyed the photo commission: “I’m always equally proud to be commissioned to make a stamp, and I love to work with set design. Getting everything right is the challenge. The position of every little berry matters because of the small format. First, I sketched on paper and tested different accessories and variations. I decided to use my grand-mother’s old juice bottles that are over 100 years old. It was a little sweaty to make them hold tight. As I started the assignment in the middle of winter, I first had to work with frozen berries, and I finished by photographing the berries in nature.” Facts about the issue Name of issue Sepac – locally produced beverages Date of issue 6 September 2022 Photographer Tiina Tahvanainen Design Johanna Finne Edition 45 000 Denomination €1.90 Price FDC €2.90 Stamp size 50×25,2 mm Sheet size 2×12 stamps Paper 110 g/m2 Perforeration 13 per 2 cm Process 4-colour offset Printer Cartor Security Printing The stamps are available for purchase in Åland Post Stamps webshop www.alandstamps.com.... Read more...Norway – LOVE IS LOVEJune 27, 2022From punishable crime to human value Society’s expectations of gender expression and sexuality have changed radically over the past fifty years. In 2022, it will be 50 years since homosexual conduct was decriminalised in Norway. On 21 April 1972, Section 213 of the Norwegian Penal Code, which prohibited sexual acts between men, was repealed. This was a breakthrough for the homosexual movement and marked a more open fight for equal rights for homosexuals. The unstinting work of Karen-Christine (Kim) Friele and the Norwegian Society of 1948 (DNF-48) led to complete legalisation. Over the past 50 years, we have therefore gone from legislation decreeing that homosexuality was a criminal offence to regarding equality rights for homosexuals and heterosexuals as a fundamental Norwegian value, which characterises both our society and culture. Gender boundaries Society used to regard sexuality as taboo, but attitudes have changed considerably and there is now growing respect for marriage equality for same-sex couples and their right to a church wedding. Gender boundaries have also become more fluid and each person has a “right to gender identity”, allowing individuals far greater freedom to express their gender identity the way they want. The gay rights movement was occasionally specific and almost exclusively focused on issues facing lesbians and male homosexuals. Today, the policy area has been expanded to include a far wider gender and sexuality field. NEW STAMP 17 JUNE 2022 NK 2078 LOVE IS LOVE Value and subject: Domestic 50g: The rainbow flag and a heart with the text “LOVE IS LOVE” Design: Camilla Kvien Jensen Issued in: Sheets of 50 stamps Print: Offset from Joh. Enschedé Security Print Print run: 100,000... Read more...Norway – Worthy of celebrationJune 27, 2022In 1872, probably very few people knew of the event that took place in the history of philately that year. Now we know. Norway’s posthorn stamps would eventually become the world’s oldest, unbroken series of stamps. The talented German-Norwegian architect Wilhelm von Hanno was commissioned to produce a design for the stamps. He was a well-known architect who designed the Trinity and Grønland churches, a school, fire station and police station in Oslo. He was also a sculptor and taught drawing to young students, one of whom was Theodor Kittelsen. Von Hanno worked with Heinrich Ernst Schirmer on a design for the new Parliament building. Although it won the competition in 1857, their proposal was later rejected. In the first few years after 1872, the posthorn stamps had denominations in Skilling. Then in 1877, Norway started to issue them with denominations in Øre. There have been numerous different printers, printing techniques and designers over the years. The posthorn stamps were given a veritable facelift in 2001 by the stamp artists Sverre Morken and Enzo Finger. They combined the original motif of the stamp with modern, fivecolour offset production. The new stamps were issued in all the colours of the rainbow with a metallic gold crown and horn and silver under the wings, creating a series that is simultaneously on-trend and classic – a worthy 150-year-old world record holder! NEW STAMP 17 JUNE 2022 NK 2077 POSTHORN Value and subject: Kr 90.00: Posthorn Design: Enzo Finger, Sverre Morken Issued in: Sheets of 50 stamps Print: Offset from Joh. Enschedé Security Print Print run: Definitive issue available on ebay... Read more...Slovakia – The 200th Anniversary of the Birth of Important Figures of the Štúr Generation June 27, 2022The history of mankind, as well as the histories of individual nations, includes short periods during which many important figures are born. Their ground-breaking ideas will go on to affect the social, scientific, cultural, artistic or political life of their nation and radically change the development of their society. These people do not usually only focus on a single dimension, the scope of their activities is wider, it includes culture and society. The period from 1815 to 1825, which gave birth to the generation, generally referred to as the Ľudovít Štúr generation, is one such period of Slovak history. This generation, led by this charismatic man, born in 1815, crucially influenced the development of the Slovak nation during the revolution of 1848 – 1849 and the so-called makeshift period of 1860 – 1867, when the key issues related to the existence of Slovaks as a nation were decided. In 2022, we will commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of five figures from the Štúr generation. They had a profound effect on Slovak social life, leaving behind them a permanent and indelible trace. In order of their dates of birth, they are: Janko Kráľ (born 24th April), probably the greatest poet of the Štúr generation, a rebel and revolutionist. Ján Palárik (born several days later, on 27th April), he was a Catholic priest, the very opposite of Janko Kráľ, who, through his service and literature, strived to find a path to friendly coexistence between the individual nations of the Kingdom of Hungary of the time. Ján Francisci-Rimavský (born 1st June) played an unforgettable part in the battles that took place during the revolution of 1848 to 1849 and as a convener and organiser of the Slovak National Memorandum assembly in 1861. Ján Kalinčiak (born approximately two months later, on 10th August) was a gifted writer, whose humorous story Reštaurácia (Restoration) still entertains Slovak readers today, even though it was written more than 150 years ago. Finally, but not the least of them, Štefan Marko Daxner (22nd December), he was a lawyer and the chief author of the Memorandum of the Slovak Nation of 1861, which listed the crucial political requirements needed to support Slovak self-government. These continued to be included in Slovak political programmes until as late as 1993. This postage stamp was inspired by the essential motif which all these figures held close to their hearts, Devín Castle. They considered it to be a national sanctuary, the birthplace of Slovak national statehood. On the miniature sheet we can find the figures to whom this stamp is dedicated. The FDC depicts an eagle flying above the peak of Kriváň, the symbol of Slovakia, which is loosening the cuffs of the Slovak nation. A lime leaf and blossom are part of the FDC cancellation and they are symbolic of contemporary Slavic patriotism. ... Read more...United Kingdom – Celebrating 50 Years of PrideJune 24, 2022Celebrating 50 Years of Pride Royal Mail today revealed images of a new set of eight, vibrantly illustrated stamps, being issued to mark the 50th anniversary of the UK’s first Pride rally that took place on 1 July 1972. Issued exactly 50 years to the day, the stamps celebrate the march that took place from Trafalgar Square to Hyde Park, which was the first to bear the name ‘Gay Pride Rally’. The march was inspired by events in the USA, where the first Pride events had taken place to commemorate the anniversary of the Stonewall riots in New York. The stamps, specially commissioned by Royal Mail, were art directed by NB Studio and illustrated by award-winning artist Sofie Birkin. Her illustrations have featured in campaigns for brands such as Nike and Apple.Royal Mail worked with journalist and published author Amelia Abraham on the stamp issue andalso consulted with Royal Mail’s internal LGBT & Friends Network. Beginning in 1972, the stamps tell a story of Pride over time. They depict the first ‘Gay Pride rally’ and early Pride events where participants shouted slogans such as, “Gay is fun! Gay is proud! Gay is beautiful!”, to the more recent update on the traditional rainbow flag, its design encompassing the flags of trans and intersex people, while also referencing the inclusion of LGBTQ+ people of colour.David Gold, Director External Affairs & Policy, Royal Mail said: “The vibrant, colourful Pride events that take place in towns and cities across the UK today trace their origins to a small number of people who marched through central London half a century ago to raise awareness of discrimination and inequality. There have been huge changes in laws and social attitudes, but Pride events continue to play a key role in raising awareness of discrimination, as well as celebrating diversity and individualism.” Pride animation: The designers of the stamps, NB Studio, have, in collaboration with animation studio, Animade, created a film using the illustrations featured in the stamp issue. The film builds on the diverse and beautiful characters featured on the stamps and draws them together using rich storytelling throughout – which uses complex hand-drawn, frame by frame animation. NB Studio selected Animade to bring Sofie Birkin’s illustrations to life – assisted by NB Studio’s writer Dan Radley, sound engineers Box of Toys and voice actor Layton Williams. Alan Dye, Creative Director at and owner of NB Studio, said “It was a real honour to be asked to design this iconic series for The Royal Mail, as they represent such an important part of British LGBTQ+ history. It was an absolute joy to work with Sofie Birkin who’s work we’ve admired for some time. Watching these beautiful illustrations come to life you could easily imagine yourself as part of the ‘March Through Time…’. Jennifer Judd, co-founder and Managing Director at Animade, said: “This was a joyous project for Animade to be part of and gave us an opportunity as part of our creative industry to do something beautiful to celebrate Pride and the diverse LGBTQ+ community. Animation adds an extra narrative dimension, which helped to bring this important project for Royal Mail to life. Pride in the UK from 1972 to the present: On 1 July 1972, a crowd of people gathered in London’s Trafalgar Square before marching to Hyde Park. This was not the first march for LGBTQ+ rights in the UK; similar protests had taken place in Highbury Fields, Islington, in 1970, and another in Trafalgar Square in 1971. But it was the first with the name ‘Gay Pride Rally’. The inspiration came from the USA, where the first Pride events had taken place to commemorate the anniversary of the Stonewall riots, the 1969 clash between the LGBTQ+ community and police in New York City. The spirit of Pride was one of defiant visibility. At London’s first event there was even a ‘kiss-in’ – a mass display of same-sex affection, while people at early Pride events chanted slogans such as, “Gay is fun! Gay is proud! Gay is beautiful!” One of their demands was greater legal equality for gay people. Homosexuality was partially decriminalised in England and Wales in 1967, yet police arrests of gay and bisexual men remained common in the years following. Over the course of the first decade of Pride events, calls for basic safety and freedom were a priority; during Gay Pride Week in 1978, pamphlets were distributed to raise awareness of violent assaults on the LGBTQ+ community, such as the National Front’s then recent attack on the popular South London LGBTQ+ venue the Royal Vauxhall Tavern. During the 1980s, an increased climate of homophobia in the wake of the AIDS epidemic meant that attacks on LGBTQ+ people in the UK continued. The health crisis also sparked new Pride events, such as Manchester Pride, which began as an AIDS fundraiser. Throughout the 1990s, Pride spread across the UK. Pride Scotia launched in Scotland, with annual marches alternating between Edinburgh and Glasgow, and the first Cardiff Pride followed in 1999. In the 2000s, attendance at Pride in London grew alongside increasing support for LGBTQ+ rights, and more events were launched under the Pride banner. In 2002, same-sex couples won the right to adopt; two years later, same-sex civil partnerships were legalised. In 2013, an even more historic shift took place when the law was changed to allow same-sex marriage. The following year, Pride began to attract large corporate sponsorships, signalling its increased mainstream acceptance. By 2015, Pride in London, as it was now known, attracted a million people, and it continued to grow in the years following, until Pride celebrations had to be cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Today, Pride in London remains the main event in the UK, though many others are flourishing across the country. The stamps are available to pre-order from today (23 June) www.royalmail.com/pride, by phone on 03457 641 641 and at 7,000 Post Offices across the UK. They go on general sale on 1 July. A Presentation Pack, containing all eight stamps, is priced at £12.96 Freddie Mercury’s childhood stamp album to be displayed at London’s Postal Museum: The Postal Museum in London is to display one of Freddie Mercury’s childhood possessions – his stamp album – for the first time.The album will be on display in the museum from 13 July until 30 October this year and is part of the celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of the UK Pride movement. The 54-page album consists predominately of stamps from the British Commonwealth and reveals not only Freddie’s early life in Zanzibar, but also his artistic talent. For more information on the exhibition, visit www.postalmuseum.org/visit-us/ available on ebay... Read more...
