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