Philately

Wednesday, 24 July 2024

La baguette Scratch-and-Sniff stamp

La baguette

The baguette is not just a staple of our daily lives; it is the emblem of our gastronomy and the crown jewel of French culture.

St. Honoré, the patron saint of bakers, is also revered by confectioners, pastry chefs, flour sellers, and candlemakers. Honoré passed away on January 16th and his feast day is May 16th, 600 AD, a date that is celebrated by bakers in France as St. Honoré’s Day.

In honor of St. Honoré’s Day in 2024, La Poste, the French postal service, issued a unique stamp featuring the iconic baguette. This stamp is particularly special because it is a scratch-and-sniff stamp. The ink used contains microcapsules that release the fragrance of a freshly baked baguette when rubbed by the customer.

In 2022, the French baguette was granted UNESCO heritage status, a testament to its cultural significance and enduring legacy.

I am fortunate to possess this special stamp - both on the cover and in mint condition.

Saturday, 1 June 2024

Saar Basin (Saargebiet)

From 1920 to 1934, the Saar Basin region, known as Saargebiet, experienced a period of transition and resilience. During this time, Saargebiet was governed by a Governing Commission appointed by the League of Nations, which consisted of representatives from various countries. Saargebiet also established its own postal administration.

The first stamps of the Saar were contemporary German stamps overprinted with "Sarre" (the French name) and a heavy solid bar striking out the "DEUTSCHES REICH" at the bottom of the stamp. This overprint was applied to 17 denominations, ranging from 2 pfennig to 1 mark, and first went on sale on January 30, 1920.

The stamps of Bavaria were similarly overprinted with "Sarre" and came into use on March 1, 1920.

More German overprints were issued on March 26, 1920, with the overprint "SAARGEBIET".

In early 1921, the Saar's first definitive series was issued. Saargebiet continued to issue stamps until 1934.

Tuesday, 28 May 2024

Republic of Kalmykia

Republic of Kalmykia - Regional issue stamp

Kalmykia, a republic in southwestern Russia, is known for its unique cultural heritage, being the only region in Europe where Buddhism is the predominant religion.

Its postage stamps often reflect its rich cultural and historical identity, featuring themes such as traditional Kalmyk art, prominent historical figures, and Buddhist motifs. These stamps serve not only as functional postage stamps but also as a means to celebrate and promote the region's distinct cultural legacy.

Below Kalmykia flower stamps are part CTO set, issued in 1997.