by catpaw | 17 May, 2026 | country Stamps, Espresso fueled mumblings, Stamps
Buckle up mammals, we’re off to see the 2026 Jersey stamps! How in hell do I find so much to write about them each year. It’s a tiny island. I start with an innocent “just a few links, maybe a few cool facts”. Before I hit the end of March I have over 900 words written. Can you imagine the written chaos I could create if I ever manage to visit the island? I wonder how many post offices I could visit ….
So why does this small island’s stamps bring such pleasure? It’s one of those “you like what you like” but can’t really explain it. Maybe it’s the focus on local artists. I gravitate towards countries that support local talent and stress their countries history and culture. Jersey Post is among the top post offices in this category. The support they offer to local artists and photographers is almost unparalleled. Combine that with a laser focus on themes that are relevant to the Island, rather than chasing what is currently hot any given week. Each time I look at new releases I dive into newspapers, literature, history and daily life while I prepare the entry. Its a virtual trip to Jersey.
This year, I’ve managed to include more links to previous releases. It creates a fascinating survey of artistic and design styles through the decades. It provides a nice touchstone to the past.
So grab a pot of tea, settle into your favourite chair and enjoy this tour of Jersey
Cheers
Catpaw
January
SEPAC: Iconic landmarks from the Air
8 stamps, souvenir sheet, 2 FDCs, cancel, 8 postcards, 8 sheets of 10
offset
Jersey Post has previously featured the island’s landscape by air in their Jersey from the Air series in 2021 and 2023. This time out, they found new iconic vistas and historical spots to explore.
Photographs were done by drone:
Photographers: Bam Perspective and Quad Photography
Bam is one of the grand daddies of drone photography. Drone pilot, Marc Le Cornu, began his drone career with the Emergency Services Aerial Reconnaissance Team in 2015, after a long career with Jersey Fire & Rescue Service.
Since then, he has applied his skills to take incredible aerial photographs. Bam has won numerous awards for their work (Siena International Photography Awards, Aerial Photography Awards, New York Photography Awards, European Photography Awards, Photobox Instagram Photography Awards).
Jersey native James Bedding is Quad Photography. His journey to one of the best drone pilots in the business began after an accident that left him a quadriplegic at the age of 15. Drone technology opened up a world of adventure, allowing him to control cameras with a stylus and and mobile apps.
This accident changed everything for me but it didn’t dent my creative spirit. It wasn’t an easy journey, but several years later, I got my first drone, an EHANG Ghost drone. This could be controlled from a mobile app so I could make it work for me using my phone mounted on my wheelchair. I then got the DJI drone. Since operating this drone required manual control I came up with the idea of using a stylus pen to control the drone. My friend, Tim Evans, helped me to fine-tune the controls further with the help of his 3D printer.
Quad Photography – about me
Release date: January 6, 2026
Lunar New Year – Year of the Fire Horse
1 stamp, souvenir sheet, sheet of 10, postcard, 2 presentation packs
offset
This is Jersey Post’s 10th Lunar Stamp.in the current cycle that began in 2016. China Post’s standout artist and designer Wang Huming is the creative talent for the entire series. He tapped into traditional Chinese paper cutting techniques from the Qing Dynasty for this stamp.
Present throughout China and in various ethnic groups, paper-cut is a popular art integral to everyday lives. A predominantly female pursuit, it is transmitted from mother to daughter over a long period of time, beginning in childhood, and is particularly common in rural areas. It earns the most skilful artists respect and admiration. Many techniques are used: the paper can be cut or engraved with a chisel, coloured or left blank. Increasingly, modern technologies are used. Motifs, which vary greatly and are often devised by the artist, depend on the region of origin (for example, in southern China fine and delicate motifs predominate) and the purpose of the product, which might be used for interior decor (windows, beds and ceilings), festivities (weddings, birthdays and ceremonies), or prayers (invoking the rain, warding off the devil, and so on). As a key part of Chinese social life in all ethnic groups, paper-cut expresses the moral principles, philosophies and aesthetic ideals of its exponents. It continues to provide an outlet for emotion and is experiencing an unprecedented revival.
UNESCO: Chinese paper-cut
Designer: Wang Huming
Huming is Chief Art Consultant with China Post.
“I’m a curious and inquisitive person, who always finds the world so interesting. I love to work on the themes of traditional culture, modern technology and animals that are full of spirituality”.
Jersey Post posted an excellent interview with Wang for his previous 2024 Lunar stamp.
Release date: January 23, 2026
Parish Symbols – Post and Goes
1st in new series
6 post & go stamps, 1 FDC, cancel, presentation pack
offset
Jersey’s parish crests date back to 1921, when a visit from King George V and Queen Mary sparked various large celebratory plans across the island. Part of these celebrations included creating parish symbols, originally illustrated by Alfred G. Wright who drew inspiration from the concepts of Major N.V.L Rybot, of La Société Jersiaise.
Jersey Post
- Arms of St. Brelade and Fish
- Arms of St. John and Cross
- Arms of St. Lawrence and Iron Grate
- Arms of St. Mary and Fleur de Lis
- Arms of St. Ouen and Cross
- Arms of St. Peter and Keys
Designer: Jackie Scott
Release date: January 29, 2026
February
Jersey’s Pollinators
6 stamps, souvenir sheet, 2 FDCs, cancel, 2 presentation packs, 6 sheets of 10
offset
Jersey is home to an astounding 149 bee species. These stunning photos were obtained using a microscope lens attached to a high res digital camera. This allowed photographer Glen Perotte to capture incredible detail. For this series honey bees were the primary topic.
Photographer: Glen Perotte
Jersey Post posted an interview with Perotte on their website.
Working on this project was a wonderful experience of discovery, and I found the entire process incredibly interesting. Shaun Gell of Jersey Honey passion was truly inspiring; during my visits to his hive site, he taught me so much about the life of bees.
If I was to signal out one interesting fact I learned: it would have to be how bees see. They can perceive light in the ultraviolet spectrum, which is invisible to humans. This ability allows them to easily spot and navigate toward the nectar and pollen in flowers.
Perotte Interview
Jersey Post has a soft spot for bees. They’ve created some lovely, gentle portraits of Jersey’s bees. A few of the stamps:
100 Years of the Jersey Beekeepers Association – European Honey Bee (Apis mellifera). Designer: Interabang
Buff-tailed Bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) from Insects (2nd series) issued 2008. Designer: William Oliver
Release date: February 23, 2026
March
Celebrate History Passenger Vessels
8 stamps, souvenir sheet, 2 FDCs, cancel, prestige and presentation packs, 8 sheets of 10
offset
This set explores passenger vessels sailed to and from Jersey.
Ships:
Normandy, 1863 – this paddle steamer was built in 1863 by the Steam Packet Company. It sailed a regular route between Southampton, Guernsey and Jersey. It also carried mail. The Normandy sunk on the evening of March 16th, 1870. Read more about it here: https://www.jerseyheritage.org/research-and-collections/object-in-focus/ps-normandy-porthole/
Isle of Jersey 1930 – steam turbine ship built by William Denny & Bros, Dumbarton and launched in 1930. Southern Railway Company ran the ship as a Channel Island ferry service. Was converted to a hospital ship around the Scapa Flow during WW2. Later used as a troop transport during D-Day. After the war the Jersey was bought as a pilgrimage ship in the Middle East and finally scrapped in 1963.
Roll of Honour
Appeared on a EUROPA stamp for Jersey’s Europa (C.E.P.T.) 2020 – Ancient Postal Routes. Designer: Martin Mörck
T.S.S Ibex 1891 – steam ship built for by Laird Bros for Great Western Railway Company for the Weymouth to Channel Islands ferry route. Launched in 1891. Beached in April 16, 1897, and struck a reef just off Guernsey and sank on January 5, 1900. Salvaged and returned to service on both instances and the ships’ masters were found at fault both times. When WW1 broke out the ship continued ferry service, but was armed with a 16 pounder mounted on the stern. In the last year of the war the crew sunk a U-Boat. Scrapped in 1925. T.S.S. Ibex
Featured on a 2011 stamp for the Shipwrecks series. Designer: Anthony Theobald
T.S.S. Brittany 1933 – build for Southern Railway by by William Denny & Brothers at Dumbarton. Operated along the Jersey and Guernsey and french ports Saint-Malo, Granville and Cherbour ferry route. Converted to a troop ship during WW2.
At the beginning of the war, Brittany participated in evacuations, and then was operated by the British army on the African and Indian coasts. At the end of the war, she resumed his service in Saint-Malo, assisted by a new vessel, S.S. Falaise. She left the service and the British Railways in 1962. Brittany
After the war, the Brittany returned to ferry service in the Baltic, under the name Ålandsfärjan. Later bought by Viking Lines she was withdrawn from service after running aground near Stockhom in 1972.
Dukw 1972 – nicknamed the Aquaduck. An amphibious ferry that could run right up onto a beach. Worked the St Helier to Elizabeth Castle route.
Earl of Granville 1973 – Started out as a Viking Lines ship. Renamed Earl of Granville and chartered by Sealink British Ferries (1984-1990) for 10 years.
SS Condor I 1964 – hydrofoil ship that operated a ferry route for 60 years. Built in Sicily.
S.S. Falaise 1947 – steamship built by William Denny & Brothers yards at Dumbarton for Soutern Railways. Sailed the Saint-Malo and Southampton ferry route. Used by the Navy along side the Brittany. Returned to ferry work after the war until August 1974 when she was dismantled.
Designer / artist: The fabulous Martin Mörck
Release date: March 23, 2026
Art in the Arches
8 stamps, souvenir sheet, 2 FDCs, cancel 3 packs, 8 sheets of 10
offset
JERSEY Stamps’ latest issue showcases the results of ArtHouse Jersey’s 2024 and 2025 ‘Art in the Arches’ project, which saw colourful murals painted on 14 arches at the Elizabeth Marina with the themes ‘water, water everywhere’ and ‘out of the blue’.
Of the murals produced, eight were selected to be immortalised in the latest stamp issue from Jersey Post.
Jersey Post
Artists:
- Zara Le Cornu – No Planet B
- Hautlieu School – Fruits of the Sea (Fisherman)
- Ocean Culture Life & CAMHS community group – Tide Together
- Lucy Oats – Save Me and I’ll Save You
- Jersey College for Girls – One Woman for Every Woman
- Rouge Bouillon Primary School – A Message to My Future Self
- Aimee Cast – What’s Beyond
- Layla Arthur – Sun Shines
Release date: April 2, 2026
May
EUROPA: 70 Years of EUROPA
2 stamps, souvenir sheet, 2 FDCs, cancel, 2 packs
offset
The first stamp design is being used by all participating countries. It was created by Finnish artist Klaus Welp. Jersey Post used the dot technique to create their own companion stamp.
Designers: Klaus Welp and Jersey Post
Release date: May 8, 2026
Jersey’s International Connections
6 stamps, souvenir sheet, 2 FDCs, cancel, 2 packs, 6 sheets of 10
offset
- The Cod Industry
- Jersey Jumpers
- Jersey Cows
- Prisoners of War
- Hollywood Stars
- New Jersey
More details coming
Artist: Daniel Allison
Release date: May 21, 2026
by catpaw | 13 May, 2026 | Catpaw's Picks, country Stamps, Stamps
Ah Japan, the post mark cancel capital of the world. If you are a cancel hound, this is the country for you. Many countries create them, few attain the sheer delicate beauty and whimsy of Japan’s. Here are a few samples from over the years:
The little snowball bird is one of my favourites. It’s tiny, simple, and perfectly captures the little ball of cuteness. I have a large collection of Japanese post marks for reference purposes, and often go back over them to examine details. I chuckled when I went back to look at the 2025 page and realised I started the article out with cancels as well. I may be an addict. Send post marks to help.
Let’s see what surprises Japan offers this year. And maybe I’ll start working on a different intro for 2027 now.
Cheers
Catpaw
January
Greetings: Simple Designs
1 stamp, sheets of 50
offset
Designer: Junko Kaibuchi | ン 貝淵 純子
Release date: January 7, 2026
February
Spring Greetings
10 stamps on two sheets, 2 cancels
offset
Sheet one:
(1) Otter and fish
(2) Mountain
(3) Cat in love
(4) Sleeping soundly
(5) Tea leaves
Sheet two:
(1) The Mimosa House
(2) The Spring Breeze Shawl
(3) Waking Up
(4) Flowers and Rain
(5) The Night of the Hazy Moon
Designer: Rika Hoshiyama | 星山 理佳
Release date: February 4, 2026
Retro Day
10 stamps on a sheet, 2 cancels
offset
Stamps – and I have to admit this one kind of hit hard. Retro … sigh.
(1) Telephone and disposable camera
(2) CRT television and decorations
(3) Boombox and letter
(4) Roller skates
(5) Cassette tape
(6) Fashion
(7) Cuckoo clock
(8) Pudding à la mode
(9) Stationery
(10) Sweet bread
Designer: Ayumi Yoshikawa | 吉川 亜有美
Release date: February 18, 2026
March
My Travel Stamp Series Vol.11
20 stamps on two sheets, 2 cancels
offset
Stamps on sheet one:
(1) Aqua World Ibaraki Oarai Aquarium
(2) Hitachi Seaside Park
(3) Fukuroda Falls
(4) Anglerfish Hot Pot
(5) Tomoe Uzuma River and Tsunade Road
(6) Mashiko Pottery
(7) Akagi South Slope Thousand Cherry Trees
(8) Ashikaga Flower Park
(9) Usui Third Bridge (Megane Bridge)
(10) Tomioka Silk Mill
Stamps on sheet two:
(1) Kusatsu Onsen
(2) Lake Haruna
(3) Yakimanjū (grilled sweet buns)
(4) Kegon Falls
(5) Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Sleeping Cat
(6) Nasu Hachiman Azaleas
(7) Kairakuen Garden
(8) Natto (fermented soybeans)
(9) Kasumigaura Sightseeing Sailing Boat
(10) Tsukuba Space Center
Designer: Yuji Kusuda | 楠田 祐士
Release date: March 4, 2026
Invitation to the Stamp Hobby Series Vol. 3
3 stamps on sheet, 2 cancels
offset
Stamps:
(1) Utagawa Hiroshige “Eight Views of the Suburbs of Edo: Koganei Bridge at Sunset”
(2) Katsushika Hokusai “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji: Mount Fuji at Gotenyama, Shinagawa, on the Tokaido Road”
(3) Utagawa Hiroshige “Arashiyama, a famous Kyoto landmark, is full of blossoms.”
Margins:
Katsushika Hokusai, “Mount Fuji with Cherry Blossoms”
Designer: Satoshi Maruyama | 丸山 智
Release date: March 11, 2026
April
Flower Colour Series Vol.6
2 sheets of 10, 2 cancels
offset
Both sheets illustrate the same flowers:
(1) Carnation
(2) Rose
(3) Magnolia
(4) Nemophila
(5) Blueberry
Designer: Rika Hoshiyama | 星山 理佳
Release date: April 1, 2026
World Veterinary Association Congress 2026 (Tokyo)
10 stamps on sheet, 2 cancels
offset
Stamps:
(1) Sheep, Cow
(2) Horse
(3) Red-crowned Crane
(4) Pig, Human
(5) Cow, Human
(6) Cat
(7) Dog
(8) Chicken
(9) Japanese Honeybee
(10) Koi Carp
(Margin) Tokyo Tower, One Health Carbon Gate
The 41st convention theme was One Health for a Better Tomorrow:Veterinary Medicine Holds the Key.
Designer: 吉川 亜有美 Ayumi Yoshikawa
Release date: April 13, 2026
Stamp Hobby Week
4 stamps in sheets of 10, 2 cancels
offset
Stamps:
Scenes are extended through pairs of stamps
(1) “Genji and Yugao” by Suzuki Harunobu – Mitate Yugao (Parody of the Yugao Chapter of the Tale of Genji) this set is from diptych created in 1766
(2) “Beauty in the Kitchen” by Kitagawa Utamaro – part of an woodblock ink on paper triptych. Created in @1795 during the Edo period.
Suzuki Harunobu This composition is a mitate (parody) of the Yugao chapter from the Genji Monogatari (The Tale of Genji), the classic Heian Period epic novel following the complicated life and romances of the ‘Shining Prince’ Genji that inspired endless variations and interpretations in art and literature through the centuries. The title of chapter 4, Yugao (Evening Faces also known as the ‘moonflower’), is so well-known that only an image of the flower, perhaps resting on a folding fan, becomes a direct reference to this sad chapter in the story. Of all of Genji’s many lovers, the most tragic is the reclusive beauty residing in a neglected mansion covered by vines with flowering yugao blossoms. She refuses to tell Genji anything about herself, including her name, so he calls her Yugao, after she has a female servant present Genji’s servant with a blossom on a scented folding fan inscribed with a poem written in beautiful calligraphy. Fascinated, Genji invites the mysterious lady to a remote villa where they consummate their passions. But only hours later, one of Genji’s former lovers, the jealous Lady Rokujo, haunts poor Yugao and quickly takes her life.
https://www.scholten-japanese-art.com/printsV/3011
Kitagawa Utamaro (?–1806) was undoubtedly Japan’s greatest artist of bijinga (pictures of beautiful women) in the ukiyo-e genre, but like many working in ukiyo-e, it took some time for him to establish himself. When he began his career in Edo (now Tokyo), he produced large numbers of pictures of actors in the small hosoban size, around 33 centimeters long by 15 wide. The woodblock printing of the day did not allow artists to follow their own creative paths. Instead, publishers came up with themes that were likely to be a hit, and artists, carvers, and printers worked together to turn these ideas into multicolored prints known as nishiki-e, which were sold in great quantities with tight profit margins.
https://www.nippon.com/en/japan-topics/b11602/
Designer: 玉木 明 Akira Tamaki
Release date: April 20, 2026
60th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Singapore
2 stamps on sheets of 10, 2 cancels
offset
Stamps:
(1) Orchid flower – Singapore’s national flower
(2) Cherry blossom flower – Japan’s national flower
Singapore and Japan have upgraded their bilateral ties, with deeper cooperation planned in a wide range of areas, from artificial intelligence to the green transition.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced on March 18 that the two countries have elevated their ties to a strategic partnership, in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
The strategic partnership will deepen the foundations of the substantive and multifaceted relationship between both countries, and expand cooperation in five forward-looking areas, said a joint statement issued after both leaders and their delegations met at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tokyo.
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/spore-japan-upgrade-ties-to-strategic-partnership
Designer: 玉木 明 Akira Tamaki
Release date: April 27, 2026
May
Happy Greetings
20 stamps on two sheets, 2 cancels
offset
This spring’s Happy Greeting theme is Home Parties. Balloon animals and more decorate these stamps.
Sheet one:
(1) Moon foil balloon
(2) Flower foil balloon
(3) Two star foil balloons
(4) Heart foil balloon
(5) Star foil balloon
Sheet two:
(1) Balloon Dog (Green)
(2) Balloon Ribbon
(3) Balloon Dog (Yellow)
(4) Balloon Rabbit
(5) Balloon Bear
Designer: 守屋 絵麻 Ema Moriya
Release date: May 7, 2026
National Land Greening (Ehime Prefecture)
10 stamps on sheet, 1 cancel
offset
Stamps:
(1) Quercus acutissima – sawtooth oak
(2) Citrus tachibana – tachibana orange
(3) Japanese black pine
(4) Camphor tree
(5) Japanese cedar
(6) Castanopsis sieboldii – evergreen native to Japan
(7) Japanese cypress
(8) Rhododendron parvifolium
(9) Japanese maple
(10) Japanese camellia
You can read more about Japan’s efforts to promote planting of trees throughout the country. https://www.green.or.jp/english/ and there’s an entire site devoted to the sites and scenery of Ehime Prefecture.
Designer: 楠田 祐士 Yuji Kusuda
Release date: May 13, 2026
International Horticultural Exposition 2027 (with donation)
2 stamps on sheets of 10, 2 cancels
offset
The Expo’s mascot this year is Tunku Tunku and the theme is Scenery of the Future for Happiness. Tunku Tunku is a small earth with a big hearts bopping along on legs.
Stamps:
1) Official logo
(2) Official mascot character Tunku Tunku
Expo 2027 Yokohama will play a role in proposing solutions to international issues including global environmental challenges and developing future societies. It will present new perspectives, values, and industrial fields, and help reaffirm the importance of natural spaces. Expo 2027 Yokohama will emphasise the principle of circularity inherent to flowers, greenery and agriculture, as well as the value of nurturing plants of all types, how they benefit people at various levels, and the cultural and mental benefits to humankind. It will also ask participants to voice their opinions on the effects of nature on contemporary society, making the Expo a participatory demonstration.
In light of global climate change and the loss of biodiversity, the Expo aims to create a society in which people have a deeper sense of happiness through various initiatives related to its theme.
Plant Expo 2027
Designer: 山田 泰子 Yasuko Yamada
Release date: May 19, 2026
by catpaw | 30 Apr, 2026 | country Stamps, Stamps
The stamp program for Türkiye this year is fascinating. It starts off with a bang with a spectacular piece of tech history. Al-Jazari isn’t as well known in Western countries as he should be, and you’ll learn more in a few minutes. That is followed up with
- Tughras, calligraphic signatures
- 3 joint issues (an unusual but welcome number)
- some cartoon heroes (I always love these)
- bird sanctuaries
- traditional mosaics
- Ottoman Caftans
- and SABER TOOTHED TIGERS! No seriously. The ultimate in cats. I get a bit melancholy when I think of how they are extinct. They would have been awesome to see… from a distance.
Couple that with top of the line artists and designers, and … well, I have no idea why Türkiye’s stamps aren’t talked about more. 2026 feels like PTT told their designers “have fun and wow us”. Looking back on 2025, I realise the program was one of the few I managed to post before the “great health crash”. The year halts at the end of May, so I guess I better go finish it … one day. Right now I’m enjoying 2026.
Artists Aysu Bekar Kocamiş’ Saffron from Safranbolu stamp and Derya Sağlam’s EUROPA: Archaeological Discoveries cancel are among the best of last year.
However the Anatolian Wolves post mark by Prof. Dr. Kazim Çapaci makes me a smile because they look like they are up to no good.
That’s how you create a memorable cancel! Well enough chit chat. On to Türkiye 2026 stamps.
Cheers
Catpaw
February
Al-Jazari – Father of Cybernetics
1 stamp on souvenir sheet, FDC, cancel
digial
Note on the cancel the mechanical elephant water clock. You can read about it here A Medieval Clock Like No Other: Inside Al-Jazari’s Mechanical Marvel – Medievalists.net. The clock is also shown on the souvenir sheet.
Ismail al-Jazari was a brilliant medieval engineer. His work predates what the world commonly thinks of as the start of cybernetics. Writer Mahmud Asilsoy perfectly condensed al-Jazari’s contributions in one sentence: “The history of engineering is punctuated by the contributions of remarkable individuals whose ingenuity transcended the limits of their time.” His article Al-Jazari and His Technological Legacy: Foundations of Robotics and Automation – Muslim HeritageMuslim Heritage is a must read for anyone looking for an introduction to al-Jazari and the Islamic Golden Age (8th–14th centuries).
Among al-Jazari’s inventions were:
- Water clocks with complex gear trains and displays
- Candle clocks with timed release mechanisms
- Water dispensers and cleansing devices
- Water-raising machines powered by gears and animal force
- Automated vessels and pitchers
- Humanoid musical automata and miscellaneous mechanisms
Al-Jazarī’s mechanical inventions were not merely isolated demonstrations of technical skill; rather, they exemplified a systematic and empirical approach to mechanical design, characterized by iterative experimentation, functional adaptability, and a deep understanding of physical laws. His work displays an integrated vision of engineering in which form, function, and user interaction were cohesively balanced—centuries before such principles became codified in modern engineering practice.
The diversity of Al-Jazarī’s devices—ranging from water clocks and hydraulic pumps to automated musicians and programmable vessels—underscores his wide-ranging ingenuity and foresight. These machines addressed both practical societal needs (such as irrigation, water distribution, and time regulation) and aesthetic or ceremonial functions (including entertainment, hospitality, and ritual purification). In many cases, his machines incorporated early concepts of automation, feedback regulation, and even mechanical programmability, positioning him as a visionary precursor to modern fields such as robotics, cybernetics, and control systems engineering.
His devices laid the foundation for modern robotics not only in terms of mechanical logic and programmability, but also through their use of modular design, repeatable motion sequences, and force regulation mechanisms—features that closely parallel contemporary camshaft-driven robotics, translational cam followers, and planetary gear systems.
[ibid]
Designer: Burhan Varol
Release date: February 6, 2026
200th Anniversary of the Founding of the Presidential Symphony Orchestra
1 stamp on souvenir sheet, FDC, cancel
digital
Following the abolition of the Janissary corps in 1826 by Sultan Mahmud II, a modern, Western-style army was created, along with the establishment of a military band. At the Sultan’s invitation, the Italian musician Giuseppe Donizetti arrived in Istanbul in 1828 and took over the direction of the Muzika-i Hümâyûn. Enjoying a well-deserved reputation among the world’s most prestigious orchestras, this institution, considered Turkey’s flagship orchestra, founded the Muzika-i Hümâyûn Mektebi in Maçka in 1831, the first music school in the Ottoman Empire. Under Sultan Abdülmecid, the Muzika-i Hümâyûn’s scope of activities expanded even further
In 1916, on the instructions of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the Muzikā-i Hümâyün was transferred to Ankara, where it continued its activities until 1924 under the direction of Zâti Arca. The Muzikā-i Hümâyün Philharmonic gave concerts outside the borders of the Ottoman Empire for the first time during its European tour organized for the benefit of the Red Cross between December 25, 1917, and January 31, 1918.
Following the abolition of the Sultanate on November 1, 1922, the Muzika-i Hümâyün was placed under the authority of the last caliph, Abdülmecid Efendi, and continued its existence under the name Makâm-ı Hilafet Muzikası
With the abolition of the Caliphate on March 3, 1924, the Makam-Hiläfet Music attached to the Palace and the Mabeyn Chamber Music Ensemble lost their functions. By a decision made on April 6 and formalized by a document published by the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, the ensemble took the name Riyaset-i Cumhur Musiki Heyeti
From PTT Info sheet T.C. Posta ve Telgraf Teşkilatı | Ürün Galerisi
Designer: Atakan Öz
The Orchestra previously appeared on a stamp in 1977 for their 150th anniversary.
Release date: February 27, 2026
March
Ottoman Sultans’ Tughras
officials
20 stamps
digital
Examine the stamps carefully to pick out the (sometimes subtle) differences.
Tughras were calligraphic signatures used by Sultans in the Ottoman Empire. Yasin Giray Demir wrote a magnificent page on Tughras so enjoy the deep dive: The Sultan’s Signature: An Introduction to Ottoman Tughras.
The tughra is a written sign and emblem used to represent Turkish rulers, from the Oghuz Khans to the Ottoman Sultans. The term, which appears in Middle Turkic as “tugrag” with the meaning “seal and signature of the ruler,” passed into Persian as “nişân” and into Arabic as “tevki” and “alåmet.”
The tuğra, a true signature of the sultan, was widely used in many fields from the founding of the Ottoman Empire until the abolition of the sultanate, without ever losing its importance. It developed as a distinct branch of the art of calligraphy and became part of history as a constituent element of our cultural heritage.
The earliest Ottoman tuğra belongs to Orhan Gazi; no tuğra of Osman Gazi has been found. For this reason, of the 36 Ottoman sultans, 35 have a known tuğra.
In the Ottoman Empire, tuğras, drawn according to the tevki style of the aklåm-ı sitte (the six calligraphic styles) and initially composed of simple lines, included the sultan’s name along with that of his father, in accordance with Arabic pronunciation Over time, the titles “şah” and “han” were added, along with the prayer formula “el-muzaffer dâima” (always victorious). A tuğra combining these elements, whose letters were written without dots, consisted of: the base section (sere), containing the names of the sultan and his father as well as the prayer “always victorious”; two intertwined beyza that curve elegantly to the left from this base; the arm (dagger) extending to the right and downwards; three tuğ (strokes resembling the letter elif) rising vertically from the base; and three zülfe (descending curved strokes) falling back in a curve from the top of the tuğ, In the Ottoman Empire, the high official in charge of drawing the sultan’s tuğra bore the titles of nişancı tuğral, tevkii or muvakki, while learning this art was called meşk-i tuğra.
T.C. Post and Telegraph Organization | Product Gallery
Tughras have appeared on stamps many times. Early stamps issued under the Ottomans carried them, as did a series of Saudi stamps. The 6th Tughra in the image above appeared on the 1863 stamps Tughra of Sultan Abdul-Aziz. Designed by Sikkezenbachi Abdulfettah Efendi
Designer: Atakan Öz
Release date: March 3, 2026
Cankiri
Definitives
3 stamps, FDC, cancel
digital
Stamps, descriptions from this news release :
Salt Cave – Çankırı Salt Mine, also known as the Underground Salt City, located within the boundaries of Balıbağı village, 19 km from the central district at the east of Çankın, is one of the oldest and largest salt mines. in the world, known to have produced salt for approximately 5,000 years. The sculptures made of salt are exact replicas of the Orkhon Inscriptions.
(Note: the cancel uses large salt crystals as part of it’s motif)
Yaren Culture – The word “Yaren” literally means friend or companion. The yaren tradition, rooted in the Ahi institution and shaping the socio-cultural structure of the province, is still preserved today through conversation gatherings held among men during the winter, remaining faithful to its original form. Hospitality, generosity, courage, heroism, bravery, cooperation and solidarity, unity and togetherness, love and respect, stability, refraining from actions that disrupt order, compassion and humility are the main sources from which Yaren tradition is nurtured. Çankırı Yaren culture has become a symbol of Turkish culture.
Fairy Chimneys – The fairy chimneys are located in the Gelin Kayası area, 3 km from Sakaeli village, in the direction of the flow of the Devrez River in the Orta district of Çankırı. The fairy chimneys were formed as a result of erosion of conglomerate and tuffaceous rock structures by winds and water. Rock tombs were carved into the interiors of the fairy chimneys.
Cankiri’s history reaches back to the Paleolithic period, and offers a rich cultural experience:
Çankırı is located in the Paphlagonia Region, which is among the regions called Bithynia (Bithynia) in the west and Pontus in the east in ancient times.
The ancient name of the city of Çankırı is Gangra and it has preserved this name until today. This name was first documented during the Greek and Roman periods. The oldest written source mentioning the name Gangra is the versatile scientist Eratosthenes, who lived in the 3rd century BC. The name Gangra is a local name from Anatolia, dating from the classical period to the Luwian period. However, the ancient Luwian name “Gangra” was transformed into Çankırı by using the words “bell” and “broken” in accordance with the folk etymology (trying to give a meaning to names that the people could not understand in their own language). However, in Ottoman times, the ancient name of the city was preserved and it was used as Kangırı or Kângarı.
When the archaeological studies carried out in Çankırı are examined; Paleolithic Period (BC. 600000-12000), Chalcolithic Period (BC. 6000-3200/3000), Old Bronze Age (BC. 3200/3000-2000), Iron Age (1200-550 BC), Hellenistic Period (330-30), Roman Imperial Period (BC. 6/5- 285 AD), Late Roman-Byzantine Period (285-1453 AD). In the light of archaeological data, we can say that the city has a rich cultural heritage
Çankırı – Turkey Culture Portal <– cool site
.Designer: Yacup Birbilen
Cankiri has appeared on 2 other stamps. The first 1958 Cities of Turkey (1958-1960) series and the second from the Definitive Postage Stamps, 2005, Turkish Provinces series.
Release date: March 12, 2026
Nevruz
1 stamp, FDC, cancel
digital
This important holiday is celebrated throughout Central Asian. It marks the first day of the Persian New Year and means “New Day”. Traditionally celebrated on March 20 or 21, it ushers in the start of spring. Each country brings their own cultural and historical interpretations to the event.
Celebrations of the New Year during the spring equinox may have begun in ancient Mesopotamia. Babylonian records mention similar festivities around 2000 BCE. The tradition later spread across the Persian Empire. It became part of the religion of Zoroastrianism. The celebration symbolized renewal, balance and the triumph of light over darkness. According to Persian mythology, King Jamshid established Nowruz as the start of the ancient Iranian calendar. Some believe that, during the Achaemenid period, King Darius I of Persia (reigned 522 to 486 BCE) built parts of Persepolis for Nowruz ceremonies. The festival was important as both a cultural and spiritual celebration. Nowruz | The Canadian Encyclopedia
You will see a variety of spellings including Novruz, Navruz, Nooruz, Nevruz, or Nauryz. In 2024 UNESCO officially inscribed Norouz as part of the world’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Nawrouz, Novruz, Nowrouz, Nowrouz, Nawrouz, Nauryz, Nooruz, Nowruz, Navruz, Nevruz, Nowruz, Navruz – UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
In a rapidly changing world, Nowruz serves as a reminder of our shared human heritage. It champions the values of tolerance, cultural diversity, and peace—principles that resonate deeply in our modern, interconnected society. By celebrating Nowruz, communities reaffirm their commitment to preserving ancient traditions while also embracing contemporary influences that enrich their cultural tapestry.
A beacon of renewal, unity, and cultural diversity
Nowruz is more than just a calendar event—it is a vibrant, living tradition that celebrates the renewal of nature and the human spirit. From the detailed rituals of cleaning and the meticulous setting of the Haft Sin table to the communal feasts, bonfire jumps, and street festivals, Nowruz invites millions around the world to leave behind the old and welcome the new with hope and joy.
As families gather to celebrate, as communities share in the rich cultural heritage of their regions, and as global institutions recognize and promote this ancient festival, Nowruz stands as a beacon of renewal, unity, and cultural diversity. It is a day to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to a future filled with promise—a true celebration of the timeless human spirit.
International Nowruz Day | United Nations
Designer: Yavuz Güleç
Türkiye featured Nowruz in 1995.
Release date: March 17, 2026
Mehteran
1 stamp, FDC, cancel
digital
Mehteran is the oldest military band in the world, with it’s origins dating to 1289 under the Ottomans.
t was believed that the military band, named “Tuğ” and “Kübürge” in these inscriptions, had made music in front of the Hakans. Küvrük (kettledrum), tomruk (drums), çenk (cymbal), and nay-i Türki are instruments from that era. The “Tuğ” played music during war battles and for special occasions. Beyond that, Tug‘s name also became a symbol of dominance for the Turks. All the instruments were built differently and especially for war, for special days, and for sporting games.
When the Sultan joined a military campaign, the Mehter band would be doubled in size. Large kettle drums (kös) were exclusive to the Sultan’s band, not used in the Mehter bands of viziers or grand viziers. On campaigns, the Sultan’s Mehterhâne would perform beneath the imperial standard. It was customary for the Sultan’s band to play first, followed by the bands of viziers, and then the bands of provincial governors. During battles, as the army neared the enemy, the volume of the Mehter music would intensify, and drummers would shout: “Yekdir Allah, yek!” (God is One).
Motivating the Army with Music: Mehterân – Motley Turkey
Check out MEHTER AS ACT OF POWER AND PERFORMANCE for a dive into Mehteran’s Islamic and historic origins. An excellent deep dive.
The Western world was to hear for the first time the roaring sound of the Turkish mehter when Fatih Mehmed marched triumphantly through the gates of Istanbul. Sweeping on the land, the peal of mehter reached far away with the Ottoman armies marching westwards. The thundering roar of the drums in battle had the most terrifying effect upon the enemies. European chroniclers often recounted the impact of drum beating upon the Christian soldiers who saw in it some dark, supernatural force. MEHTER AS ACT OF POWER AND PERFORMANCE
Designer: Neşet Zeytün
Release date: March 28, 2026
April
700th Anniversary of the Conquest of Bursa
1 stamp, FDC, cancel
digital
The conquest of Bursa in 1326 by Orhan Bey marked a decisive moment in the early expansion of the Ottoman state, transforming a rising frontier principality into a growing regional power. Seven centuries later, the milestone is being commemorated with a wide range of cultural, academic and public events throughout 2026, reflecting both the historical significance of the conquest and the city’s enduring role in Ottoman history.
700 years since conquest of Bursa marks turning point in Ottoman rise – Türkiye Today
Bursa was inscribed onto the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2014 for its Outstanding Universal Value. It was the centre of the birth of the Ottoman Empire and home to many, many museums.
The site illustrates the creation of an urban and rural system establishing the Ottoman Empire in the early 14th century. The property embodies the key functions of the social and economic organization of the new capital which evolved around a civic centre. These include commercial districts of khans, kulliyes (religious institutions) integrating mosques, religious schools, public baths and a kitchen for the poor, as well as the tomb of Orhan Ghazi, founder of the Ottoman dynasty. One component outside the historic centre of Bursa is the village of Cumalıkızık, the only rural village of this system to show the provision of hinterland support for the capital.
…
Located on the slopes of Uludağ Mountain in the north-western part of Turkey, Bursa and Cumalıkızık represent the creation of an urban and rural system establishing the first capital city of the Ottoman Empire and the Sultan’s seat in the early 14th century. In the empire’s establishment process, Bursa became the first city, which was shaped by kulliyes, in the context of waqf (public endowments) system determining the expansion of the city and its architectural and stylistic traditions.
Bursa and Cumalıkızık: the Birth of the Ottoman Empire – UNESCO World Heritage Centre
Designer: Mahmut Doğan
Bursa has been featured on numerous stamps, including Bursa-Cities of Turkey (1958-1960), 1994 Alley in Bursa/Traditional Turkish Houses, and a 2005 Turkish Provinces definitive,
Release date: April 6, 2026
Cartoon Heroes – Anadolu Rock
2 stamps, FDC, cancel, 2 maxi cards
digital
This fun series began in 2023 with Rayfadan Tayfa, an educational cartoon that premiered in 2014.
Anatolian Rock began airing on TRT Çocuk TV in September 2025. It follows the adventures of a secret security group who travel around Türkiye disguised as a popular rock band.
… experiencing adventures interwoven with the unique cultural elements of each city, and each episode’s story incorporates elements of the city’s architecture, cuisine, traditional music, or dance. Featuring elements of mystery, action, and entertainment, “Anadolu Rock” aims to reinterpret Anatolian folk songs with a rock music foundation, thereby passing on the unforgettable works of Turkish music and cultural heritage to new generations.
From PTT info sheet T.C. Posta ve Telgraf Teşkilatı | Ürün Galerisi
You can watch them here Anadolu Rock – Beyaz Uykusuz Uzakta Bölüm İzle TRT Çocuk.
Designer: PTT
Release date: April 28, 2026
May
EUROPA 2026: 70th Anniversary of Europa Stamps
1 stamp, FDC, cancel
digital
Designers: Finnish-German artist Klaus Welp created the common design that will be used by all participating countries
Welp is a veteran stamp designer, with over 100 stamps, dating to his first in 2008. Among his most memorable stamps were the 2015 Moomins.
Cennet Açıl
Release date: May 9, 2026
Republic of Türkiye – Azerbaijan Joint Issue
Release date: May 15, 2026
June
World Environment Day
Nallihan Bird Sanctuary
Release date: June 5, 2026
Republic of Türkiye – Romania Joint Issue
Release date: June 19, 2026
July
The 100th Anniversary of Maritime Affairs and the Cabotage Law
Release date: July 1, 2026
2026 NATO Summit
Release date: July 7, 2026
EUROMED 2026 – Traditional Mosaics
Release date: July 13, 2026
Sea Daffodil
Release date: July 31, 2026
August
Ottoman Caftans
Release date: August 14, 2026
500th Anniversary of the Battle of Mohacs
Release date: August 29, 2026
September
100th Anniversary of Founding of Gazi University
Release date: September 8, 2026
Ankara – 2026 Tourism Capital of the Turkic World
Release date: September 19, 2026
Saber Toothed Tiger
Release date: September 21, 2024
October
Kizilelma National Aircraft
Release date: October 12, 2026
Republic of Türkiye – Turkmenistan Joint Issue
Release date: October 26, 2026
November
Yeşilçam’s Four-Leaf Clover
Release date: November 14, 2026
December
Çeşmibülbül Art
Release date: December 1, 2026
by catpaw | 22 Apr, 2026 | country Stamps, Stamps
Onwards to the 2026 Azerbaijan stamp program! Oh Azerbaijan. If I ever get a chance to travel again, you would be tops of my list. Major Silk Road hub, home to 5 World Heritage Sites, 3 entries in the Memory of the World International Register, and 24 mentions in the UNESCO Intangible Heritage register. So much history packed into this small country, and stamps that are exciting gateways to it all.
Speaking of exciting, take a look at the first stamp for the new year! Talk about a fiery start to the program. This is poster worthy.
Artist Nürəddin Mustafazadə did an excellent job interpreting this year’s theme. Would you like to hear more about Mustafazadə? So would I. Finding details on Azerbaijani artists and designers is getting easier, but its still a puzzle. Trekking through newspapers, blogs and such from Azerbaijan is a lot of fun. I’m currently trying to navigate the State Archives, in hopes of finding a bit of postal history, but so far, I’m a bit stymied. I did pull some interesting tidbits from Azerpost:
- The first postal service in Azerbaijan was established on June 1, 1818. Mail forwarding was established in 1826 in Baku, March 12, 1828 in Nakhchivan.
- First category post offices were opened in Shusha, Shamakhi, Baku and Nakhchivan, and second category post offices were opened in Ganja and Guba in 1830, for the development of relations between Russia and the Caucasus in the territory of Azerbaijan.
History and today – Azerpost
Interesting page, so head over if you’d like to learn more.
This 4 page paper, on the first postage stamps, is a good primer for anyone taking a dive into collecting Azerbaijan – Azerbaijan’s first postage stamps.It’s a downloadable pdf written by Sanubar GASIMOVA (PhD in History) and Rovshan AHMADOV. It’s in English and a must have in any reference library. My love of Azerbaijan stamps goes back quite a few years, I even wrote about these stamps in 2021 Azerbaijan’s 1st stamps – something old; something new – Bitter Grounds Magazine.
So, lots of material to get you started. And with greatful thanks to Azerpost for the beautiful scans.
Enjoy
Catpaw
January
Lunar New Year – Year of the Fire Horse
1 stamp, souvenir sheet, FDC, cancel
offset
Year of the Fire Horse began February 16.
Designer: Nürəddin Mustafazadə
Release date: January 29, 2026
March
2026 Milano Winter Olympics
9 stamps, sheetlet of 9, 3 FDCs, cancel
offset
92 nations participated in the February 2026 Winter Olympics. Azerbaijan sent athletes to compete in both Alpine skiing and figure skating, with skater Vladimir Litvintsev and alpine skier Anastasia Papathoma serving flagbearer duties at the opening ceremonies.
Designer: Orxan Qarayev
See more about Qarayv Qgallery – Orkhan Garayev I’m 99% sure this is the correct artist, so please correct me if I’m wrong.
Release date: March 16, 2026
Anatoli Banişevski 80 Years
1 stamp, souvenir sheet, FDC, cancel, postcard
offset
Considered Azerbaijan’s greatest footballer.
What stands out from his biography is his unconditional attachment to Baku. Born in the Azerbaijani capital on 23 February 1946 into a family with roots in western Ukraine, the young Anatoliy began his career in an explosive manner. Spotted playing on a pitch for children by Locomotive Baku, “Banya,” as he came to be known by his teammates, exploded onto the scene by racking up goals in his first three seasons. Neftyanik Baku didn’t wait long before recruiting him in 1963. The team was then under the orders of Boris Andreyevich Arkadyev, who sung his praises thus:
Anatoliy Banishevskiy: A Legend Shrouded in Sadness – Sport – Visions of Azerbaijan Magazine <- this is a fascinating biography. Very detailed and a great read. In English.
Banişevski previously appeared on a 2018 Russian stamp. Designed by S. Ulyanovskiy.
Designer: Rahib Məmmədov
Release date: March 19, 2026
April
70th Anniversary of EUROPA Stamp
1 stamp, sheetlet of 4, FDC, cancel
offset
This design will be used by all nations participating in the annual EUROPA release. Titled 70th Anniversary of the EUROPA Stamp: United in … it was the winning design submitted by Finnish artist Klaus Welp. The first stamp was issued September 15, 1956. To date, 12 common designs have been used.
Azerbaijan’s first EUROPA stamp was issued in 2001 with the Water – National Treasure theme. Designed by Khasay Mirzoyev. Mirzoyev is a Baku based water colourist and was the chief artist, Azermarka Company for postage stamp design from 1999-2018.
Designer: Orkhan Garayev
Artist: Klaus Welp – common design stamp
Release date: April 15, 2026
May
World Urban Forum
1 stamp on souvenir sheet, FDC, cancel
offset
This year’s Forum took place from 17–22 May 2026 in Baku, Azerbaijan. One of the most urgent issues discussed by the WUF was global housing crisis.
WUF was established in 2001 by the United Nations to examine one of the most pressing issues facing the world today: rapid urbanization and its impact on communities, cities, economies, climate change and policies. The first WUF was held in Nairobi, Kenya in 2002 and has been held around the world ever since. https://wuf.unhabitat.org/
Release date: May 17, 2026
by catpaw | 21 Apr, 2026 | country Stamps, Stamps
The 2026 Åland stamps are here … or at least starting to wander in. Isn’t this a beautiful page already? Åland, the little island in the north, is vibrant, full of life and so appealing. Another criminally under-rated stamp program in my opinion. When I was pulling all the images and details together, I just drifted with the program and had a wonderful time. I need to visit Aland. No seriously, a cool little trip hitting both the Faroe Islands and Aland would be fun. Maybe we can crowdfund a SEPAC post office trip. Oh well, we can dream.
You’ll see the name Johanna Finne pop up on all the stamps. She is the current Design Manager for Åland Post and has a big hand in the creation of the stamp layout, design and the first class info writeups I depend on. Since 2022, she has been the mainstay of Aland’s stamps.
Special thanks to Åland’s staff for the excellent writeups and support for the artists and photographers who make the stamps come alive. This page relies heavily on their research, so credit to them.
February
Trees
4 stamps, 4 FDCs, cancel, maxi card
offset
This set features 4 of Aland’s most common trees in watercolour.
Artist: Marie Laaksonen
This is Marie’ first stamp design.
“The assignment was both exciting and challenging. I went on many walks in the woods, wanting to create a story in which the motifs formed a whole. I decided that our four seasons could be a central part of the project with each tree symbolizing a season. I was also inspired by the Tree of Knowledge symbolism, how a seed is sown, grows, takes shape, and branches. I therefore chose to work in watercolour, which gave me the feeling and tone I was striving for to convey the changing of the seasons, the depth of the symbolism and the story as a whole.”
New franking labels highlight trees on Åland – Åland Stamps
Designer: Marie Laaksonen & Johanna Finne
Release date: February 4, 2026
Boathouse Culture
3rd in series
2 stamps, FDC, cancel
offset
“where boat storage meets togetherness and creativity”
This two stamp set completes Aland’s eye-opening series on boathouse culture. Boathouses are more than a home for boats, they are part of the island’s maritime culture and history.
Lemström Canal boathouse – built in 2001
… the boathouse measures approximately 100 m². A boat hangs in the boathouse year-round, always ready for fishing trips. In the summer, it is joined by an Anytec sheet metal boat. From early spring to late autumn, the boathouse is a gathering place for friends and family of the owner Magnus Lundberg. To make even better use of the space, a hoistable deck was built, which, when lowered, transforms the boathouse into a festive venue for pizza evenings and crayfish parties. Boathouse, Lemström, Jomala – mint – Åland Stamps
Kalmarnäs, Jomala – built in early 2000s
… designed and built by the owner Göran Sundblom over six years in the early 2000s. Measuring 62 m², the boathouse accommodates two wooden boats, a sauna area with a kitchenette and a roofed terrace.
Boathouse, Kalmarnäs, Jomala – mint – Åland Stamps
Photographer: Kjell Söderlund
Söderlund began his career in 1983, becoming a full time photographer 12 years later.
Designer: Johanna Finne
Release date: February 4, 2026
March
SEPAC: Iconic Landmarks – Pommern Museum Ship
1 stamp, FDC, cancel, maxi card
offset
The tall ship Pommern is the last 4 masted steel barque preserved in it’s original condition and was an operating vessel until 1939. It was turned into a museum in 1953 and docked at Mariehamn. The family of the last owner, Gustaf Erikson donated it to the city.
Welcome – Pommern
Photographer: Moein Eshghi
This is Moein’s first stamp.
“The day I took the picture was a calm and cold winter day in Åland. What caught my attention was the beautiful contrast between the white snow, the dark lines of the ship and the light blue sky. It was the feeling of stillness and tranquility in the scene that I wanted to try to capture with the camera,” says Moein.
Sepac 2026, iconic landmarks – mint – Åland Stamps
Designer: Johanna Finne
Pommern has appeared on a 2003 Åland stamp.
Centenary of the Ship “Pommern” designed by Linda Karlsson, artist Arthur Victor Gregory.
Release date: March 18, 2026
Summer Shimmer – Open Edition
1 stamp, FDC, cancel
offset with glitter varnish
This is part of Aland’s “Open edition” stamp design. An artist is given carte blanche to create a stamp with no restrictions, giving collectors a cool surprise when it finally arrives. This year Lin Simons gave us a peak at summer with her emerald damselfly (Lestes sponsa). She was inspired by peaceful times at her summer cottage.
“In the summer, the yellow-brown grass grows on the slope in front of our cottage, and dragonflies are swarming about in the air. I wanted to combine these two impressions: the shimmering dragonflies and the swaying grass in evening light,” Lin explains.
Summer shimmer – mint – Åland Stamps
Artist: Lin Simons
This is Lin’s first stamp.
“I was super happy. It felt both honorable and exciting. The design process started in my head right away and pretty quickly I had the motif ready for me,”
ÅLAND POST FRIMÄRKEN
Nr 4. 2025
Designer: Johanna Finne
Release date: March 18, 2026
Financial Services – Fintech
1 stamp, FDC, cancel
offset
This stamp features Åland fintech company Enfuce, a cloud based payment company founded in 2016.
Artist: Elin Eriksson
It was inspiring and challenging to translate something so abstract into an image that feels understandable, aesthetic and interesting – and that works in the small stamp format. I tried different compositions to find an expression that reflected Enfuce’s identity, but where I could also weave my own surrealist style into the design. The result was a motif based on a stylised map of Åland showing the Åland roots. The layers of red granite, the sea, payment cards and the cloud symbolize the way out into the world,” says Elin.
Stamp highlights fintech pioneer from Åland – Åland Stamps
Aland post has a video featuring Elin Visit stamp artist Elin Eriksson – Åland Stamps It isn’t in English, but the visuals alone make it a good watch.
Designers: Elin Eriksson & Johanna Finne
Release date: March 18, 2026
May
EUROPA: 70th Anniversary
1 stamp, FDC, cancel (see below)
offset
This design will be issued by all nations participating in the EUROPA competition. Titled 70th Anniversary of the EUROPA Stamp: United in … it was the winning design submitted by Finnish artist Klaus Welp.
The stamp combines abstract and symbolic elements. The diagonal line represents a stamp’s
perforation and the shared work of Europe’s postal services over seven decades. The colour composition reflects the flags of the European countries and symbolises the sense of unity among the member states.Europa 2026, 70 years of Europa stamps I – mint – Åland Stamps
Artist: Klaus Welp – common design stamp
Welp is a familiar face among Finnish stamp collectors, designing over 100 stamps since his first in 2008.
Designer: Johanna Finne
A second design will be released to accompany the common issue.
1 stamp, FDC with both stamps, cancel
offset
“The starting point was to portray diversity as a unifying force. I chose to illustrate different shapes and colours coming together to form a harmonious unit, much like the way life on Earth emerged through the fusion of different elements, creating the miracle of life.” Tzenko Stoyanov
Artist: Tzenko Stoyanov
Tzenko is a Swedish-Bulgarian illustrator currently based in Sweden.
Designer: Johanna Finne
Release date: May 8, 2026
Öväder – Island Weather
4 stamps in booklet form
offset
The theme for this set is island weather. thick mist, pouring rain, a sunset at sea, and meadow plants swaying in the wind.
Born in 1983, Aino-Maija Metsola graduated with a degree in graphic design at the University of Art and Design in Helsinki. Shortly afterwards, she began to do freelance work, caught the eye of Marimekko during a design contest and eventually became an in-house designer for the textile giant. The versatile designer uses a variety of mediums to achieve her unique looks that are both strong and delicate, but has a special spot in her heart for watercolors; in fact, she uses the same watercolor case she has since she was 14 years old.
https://finnishdesign.com/aino-maija-metsola/
Artist: Aino-Maija Metsola
This is Metsola’s first stamp.
Metsola works in a large number of mediums, including water colour, ink and textiles.
Designer: Aino-Maija Metsola & Johanna Finne
Release date: May 8, 2026
June
Postal Boat Race
postcard
1 stamped postcard, 2 cancels
This is the 52nd year for the annual race.
Since 1974, the Postal Boat Race has been an annual summer event arranged to commemorate the obligation of the farmers in Swedish Väddö and Åland Eckerö to carry mail and passengers across the Sea of Åland in all weathers. The mail conveyance continued for almost 400 years until the beginning of the 20th century.
New commemorative card for the Postal Boat Race
It begins at 10 am with boats leaving Grisslehamn in Sweden for Storby, Eckerö on Åland. Each competitor carries a bag of mail to honour the original purpose of the voyage. No motors are allowed, only rowing and sailing is permitted on this 44 km journey. It can take anywhere from 31/2 to 6 hours to complete, depending on the winds.
The postcard will be released to coincide with the completion of the Postal Boat Race.
Release date: June 13, 2026
The Åland Museum of Photography
1 stamp on souvenir sheet, 1 FDC, cancel, maxicard
offset
This is the museum’s 25th anniversary
Åland Post will be hosting an event at the Åland Photography Museum, Bastövägen 5, Pålsböle on June 9th. Both Head of Design Johanna Finne and Martin Mörck will be in attendance. This will be a bang up event, so if you are able, go and let me know all the details.
Events include:
- 11am –11.45 Welcome address and introduction by Johanna Finne , Head of Design at Åland Post Stamps.
- Lecture with stamp artist Martin Mörck: The Artistic Line from 15,000 BC – Seen Through My Eyes.
- 12 noon Adress by Stig Dreijer: Åland Photography Museum – a world class museum
- 12.15–2pm Signing! Meet Martin Mörck and have your first day products signed.
- 2pm VR technology demonstration with Pär Björkman and photographer Lars Lindqvist from Swedish Newspaper Dagens Nyheter.
Designer: Martin Mörck
Release date: June 9, 2026
Art Classics
Artists: Ellen Favorin (1853–1919), Elin Danielsson (1861–1919), Hanna Rönnberg (1862–1946) and Tove Jansson (1914–2001).
Release date: June 9, 2026
September
International Day of Peace
Part of the My Aland series
Release date: September 21, 2026
Microalgae
Microphotographer: Tore Lindholm
Release date: September 21, 2026
October
of Winter Dreams
Designer: Juta Policja
Release date: October 23, 2026
by catpaw | 29 Mar, 2026 | country Stamps, Stamps
I love the Faroe Islands and their stamps. To my tired little brain the islands take on a mythical status. Combine cultural pride, history, wild landscape with a robust artist population and you have a recipe for great stamps. For a small country, Faroe Islands packs a hell of a wallop when it comes to putting out a quality program.
Quick mention of a set that captured my attention, and caused a bit of delay in hitting publish for this article – 2026 features the second in the World-famous pilots in the Faroe Islands series, and this year was a bonanza for research geeks. Had a lot of fun tracking down both pilots and their stories.
What I’d love to see this year is another set of NFTs. Their 2023 Stamps of Maybe were a spectacular quartet that set an impossibly high standard for the format. Artist Heiðrik á Heygum’s artwork brought the series alive. Definitely one of the world’s best NFTs to date. Guess that’s a tough act to follow.
You’d think I would have less to say about a small country, but hey, enjoy the program and all the lovely bits and pieces that make it so exciting to explore.
Cheers
Catpaw
January
Faroese Postal Service 50 Years
franking labels
4 stamps, sheets of 16, FDC, cancel
The Faroese Postal Service began April 1, 1976. To celebrate, the post office commissioned AnniJanni to create 4 hand drawn pictures exploring 4 aspects of postal history:
- The era when people sent handwritten letters to each other.
- The era when mailboxes were full of letters.
- The era when people sent and received many parcels, delivered by electric postal vans.
- The digital present, where it is possible to use an app, and people can send and collect parcels from parcel lockers across the country.
Stamps.fo
Designer: AnniJanni
This appears to be Anni’s first stamp design.
The service was previously featured in 2020’s EUROPA’s exploration of ancient postal routes with their Faroe Island – two routes Klaksvík – Viðareiði & Vestmanna – Vágar set by designer Anker eli Petersen.
You can read a bit more here Stamps.fo
Release date: January 2, 2026
February
100 Years of Scouting in the Faroe Islands
1 stamp on souvenir sheet, FDC, cancel
offset
Scouting has been part of Faroe Islands life since 1926. It began in the town of Tórshavn with the formation of the Yellow Scouts – Sigmund Brestisson’s scout corps (SSB). This stamp was officially released during a reception February 2, at Havnará. Attendees were treated to a small talk by Posta’s Ingun N. Olsen who discussed the stamp.
Designer: Jón Magnus Joensen
Scouting was the topic of Faroe Islands’ 2007 EUROPA stamps – EUROPA / C.E.P.T.: 100 years of Scouting by Edward Fuglø.
Release date: February 2, 2026
World-famous pilots in the Faroe Islands
2nd in series
2 stamps, booklets, 3 FDCs, cancel
offset
Wolfgang von Gronau (DE)
The Life And Times Of German Aviation Pioneer Wolfgang Von Gronau has a top notch bio on von Gronau. His epic 1932 111 day world flight covered 44,000 km. During that trip he flew a Dornier Wal flying boat, which he named the “Grönland Wal” (Greenland Whale). He and his 3 man crew touched down or flew over:
- List auf Sylt (took off from here)
- Iceland
- Greenland
- Canada
- Aleutians
- Alaska
- Kurils
- Japan
- China
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Malacca
- Burma
- Ceylon
- India
- Iran
- Iraq
- Cyprus
- Greece
- Italy
- finally landing at Lake of Constance
The Philippines issued an overprint set in 1932 celebrating von Gronau’s touchdown on the island. The post office used the 1932 Philippine landscapes, that came out earlier the same year.
Parker Cramer (US)
“Parker Cramer turned up in Jacksonville about 1921.
He was short guy, which is why they called him Shorty, and he had a crooked grin.”
Parker D. Cramer
Parker Dresser Cramer and co-pilot Oliver Paquette landed on the Faroe Islands as part of a mapping flight exploring the viability of an arctic airmail route from the US to Denmark. There are conflicting details about his death date. AI has screwed up things, listing his earlier crash in Greenland as his death date, while some sites erroneously 1936, but his disappearance occurred 1931.
Cramer’s flight left Detroit, flew north to Canada and turned east. He passed Greenland, Iceland and finally the Shetland Islands, where he landed for refueling. After taking off from the Shetlands on August 9, 1931, one last message was received declaring they could now see the coast of Norway. Sometime after that message Cramer and Paquette crashed somewhere in the cold North Sea.
A few days after Cramer and Paquette’s crash, a Norwegian fishing trawler sighted a body floating on the water. Weather conditions in the North Sea were rough, making it impossible for the ship’s crew to retrieve the body.
From Oregon Bulletin August 14, 1931.
Airman’s body is believed to be sighted
Sometime in September 1931, wreckage was discovered a few hundred miles away from where they were thought to have gone down. In February 1932 a Dutch fishing trawler working along the North Sea coastlines, 25 miles southwest of Stavanger, Norway, retrieved Cramer’s briefcase from the sea. When they returned to port in March, they turned the briefcase over to authorities. In it were maps, Crammer’s pilot’s license, and various letters, including one to his mother.
From the Spokane Daily Chronicle March 21, 1932
Flyer’s Papers Found in Sea
Parker Dresser Cramer’s last flight to Europe
Designer: Janus Dam Guttesen
Release date: February 23, 2026
Abandoned Villages: Skarð
2 stamps, 3 FDCs, maxi and post cards, cancel
offset
Faroe post office has a lengthy and solid write up of this hard scrabble village. Stamps.fo By 1919 the village was abandoned by the remaining few who called it home.
The island of Kunoy is characterized by a continuous high mountain range stretching from south to north. The only exception is the deep mountain gorge, Skarðsgjógv, which gave the settlement its name. Beneath the 800-meter-high mountains on the north-eastern side of the island lies the village of Skarð.
The village is accessible by boat, but the landing site is difficult to reach. However, there are two trails, one of which is very challenging, making the village relatively isolated. From Haraldssund to Skarð is approximately seven kilometres, and this trail is relatively easy to walk. The other trail is more demanding and extremely treacherous. It crosses the mountain gorge all the way to the village of Kunoy on the opposite side. The inhabitants of Skarð used this route when going to church or attending to errands in Kunoy, and they also carried coffins across the gorge to the cemetery in Kunoy.
Surrounded by mountains on one side and the sea on the other, the village of Skarð was closely tied to these powerful natural elements. Here, the residents made a living from whatever the land and sea could provide. People have lived here for centuries, but it is unknown who first settled in Skarð. What is known is that the village’s history ended on January 26, 1919.
By 1919 only 23 people made Skarð home. Of the 23, 7 were fishermen who plied the icy waters in rowboats and sailboats.
When they went out fishing early in the morning, the weather was good and the sea calm, but suddenly the wind changed direction, and a violent storm with whirlwinds and heavy snow and hail struck the unsuspecting men, who were fishing in small open Faroese boats on the open sea. Three fishing boats did not return that memorable Christmas Eve, and 19 men died at sea: six from the village of Kunoy, six from Norðdepil, and seven from Skarð.
This accident was the death blow for the village of Skarð. Only widows, a 70-year-old man, and a few small boys remained. The village could not afford to lose seven men in their prime. The first residents moved shortly after the disaster, and on January 26, 1919, the last families left the village. Since then, Skarð has been desolate. Most of the former inhabitants settled in Haraldssund.
ibid
Photographer: Andrija Ilic
Ilic is a Faroe based photographer. He began his journey in Yugoslavia, later documenting the Serbian protests against Milosevic.
Being 24/7 out on the streets covering the big protests of Serbian people against Milosevic, it happened that a guy pulled out a gun in front of me and started shooting, I remained on the spot focusing only on my frame. Later that evening I knocked on a door of a biggest newspaper company, and I offered that exclusive photo to them. It was the first time I sold and published my photo, marking the beginning of my career official. Soon after I found my photography “home” with the news agency FoNet from Serbia and got the first big assignments, covering the war in Kosovo in 1998/99, NATO bombing campaign against Serbia 1999, the final big protest against Miloseivc and the overthrow of his regime, and the attempt of special opps trying to arrest him and extradite him to the international court. That was also a final chapter of the Yugoslav wars and drama, and ironically enough, on that occasion I was shot and wounded in my right hand by Milosevics bodyguards. I remained on the spot, managing to get my photos with just one hand. Always all-in for a photo. After the peace finally arrived in Balkans, I found myself in West Bank and Gaza Strip in the Middle East, covering the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians.
About Me | Andrija Ilic Images
After this chaotic and harsh beginning, he found his way to the remote Faroe Islands, finding peace and a new focus for his talents. He turned to documenting the wild and beautiful landscapes around the world, returning to his childhood love of nature.
Release date: February 23, 2026
Mythical Creatures – Fafnir and Fenrir
2 stamps, 3 FDCs, cancel
offset
Unicorn, phoenix and Fenris wolf.
Longish read from the news release, but worth it:
The first settlers in the Faroe Islands brought with them Norse cultural heritage and knowledge of Norse mythology. They may also have known stories about the unicorn and the Phoenix. It is reasonable to believe that later Catholic priests were familiar of these mythical creatures and told tales about them.
The stories of Fafner, who guarded the gold at Gnita-heath and whom Sjúrður Sigmundarson stole from or killed, have been known in the Faroe Islands through the ring dance, where the ballad Sjúrðarkvæði was sung. This ballad about Sigurd Fafnirsbane has its motifs from German medieval ballads and legends, known as the Niebenlungenlied. A dwarf, Fafnir, suffered the misfortune of being bewitched into a dragon and tasked to guard his gold treasure at Gnita-heath. His brother, the dwarf and blacksmith Regin, played a part in this. When Sigurd Fafnersbane set out to kill the dragon, he had Regin forge the sword that he would use to kill the dragon. The treacherous brother not only forged the sword but also wanted his share of the gold but also sought to acquire the dragon’s supernatural abilities. The way to obtain them was through the heart of the dragon, which he asked Sigurd to give him. When Sigurd skewered the heart, he himself was the first to eat it and thus he gained the dragon’s ability to see and sense things that others could not. He also gave his wife a piece, granting her the same abilities. The treacherous brother, the blacksmith Regin received nothing, but began instead to drink the dragon’s poisoned blood. Sigurd then struck him down with a fatal blow, so that he died where he stood. Thus ends the story of the dragon Fafnir, though the ballad of Sigurd Fafnir’s Bane continues with many further dramatic events.
In his artwork, artist Edward Fuglø portrays these fabled animals in compositions marked by fragments and mosaics, echoing elements found in classical depictions and medieval manuscripts.
Designer: Edward Fuglø
Fuglø is a familiar name among Faroe Island collectors. His artwork first appeared on the 1997 Christmas Seals sheet. His first postage stamps were the 1998 Year of the Ocean: Toothed Whales set.Since then he has created over 150 stamps for the Faroe post office. Torontonians may have seen his 2022-2023 exhibition Fuglakvæðið at Harbourfront Centre. Fuglakvæðið (The Bird Ballad) – Nordic Collaborations – Harbourfront Centre
Release date: February 23, 2026
April
Faroese Postal Service 50 Years
1 mini sheetlet, FDC, cancel, folder with both sheetlet and FDC
offset + hot simili foiling
On 1 April 1976, responsibility for postal services in the Faroe Islands was transferred to the Faroese authorities. Prior to this, the Faroese postal service had been part of the Danish system, with the Danish Post responsible for all mail to and from the islands. They also handled mail delivery between villages and islands within the Faroes.
One year before the transfer, on 30 January 1975, the Danish Post issued a set of Faroese stamps. However, these were cancelled with Danish postmarks. When the Faroese authorities took over, the occasion was celebrated by issuing new Faroese stamps, this time cancelled with Faroese postmarks. The public had the opportunity to purchase envelopes bearing these stamps, marked with what was called the “first day cancellation” (1 April 1976). Many people took the chance to collect envelopes with this historic first-day cancellation.
The first stamp, released in 1975, was engraved by the legendary Czeslaw Slania. He used an original map by Lucas Jacobsøn Debes. Debes, a priest, topographer and writer, who lived on the Faroe Islands from 1652 until his death in 1675. He wrote the first book about the Islands along with drawing detailed maps – FÆROARUM – Prima & accurata delineatio (1673)
Map of Faroe Islands 1673
Part of a larger set issued in 1975
Designer: Edward Fuglø
Release date: April 1, 2026
May
Art by Hans Skálagarð: USS Constitution
Engraving: Martin Mörck
Release date: May 23, 2026
Charcot: Voyages to the Faroe Islands
Designer: Martin Mörck
Release date: May 24, 2026
Europa 2026: 70 Years of Europa stamps
Artist: Klaus Welp
Release date: May 26, 2026
Red Cross Faroe Islands 100 Years
Designer: Heiðrik á Heygum
Release date: May 26, 2026
June
The Faroese Horse
Release date: June 26, 2026
September
Sepac 2026: Skansin Fortress
Photographer: Andrija Ilic
Release date: September 7, 2026
October
Faroe Islands National Anthem – 120 Years
Release date: October 19, 2026
Christmas Stamps
Release date: October 19, 2026
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