Date: 15.08.2024
Isle of Man Post Office (IOMPO) is delighted to announce the release of a special series of commemorative stamps on 30th August 2024, celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Universal Postal Union (UPU). This landmark collection showcases the rich heritage of Manx postal history and honours the global impact of the UPU in unifying international postal services.
The Universal Postal Union, established in 1874, was born out of the need to streamline international mail services, eliminating the need for individual treaties between countries. The foundational treaty, signed on 9th October 1874 in Berne, Switzerland, by 22 nations, marked the birth of the General Postal Union, later renamed the Universal Postal Union in 1878. Today, the UPU is a specialized agency of the United Nations with 192 member countries, playing a pivotal role in the seamless exchange of international mail.
The commemorative issue is based on postal items from the esteemed Basil Wood Collection, featuring rare and historical items such as:
Renowned philatelic journalist Richard West MBE provides a historical context for this significant milestone: “By the simple use of a first day cover, postcard, air letter and International Reply Coupon, these four stamps from the Isle of Man Post Office encapsulate the work of the Universal Postal Union over the past 150 years, facilitating a uniform worldwide postal system.”
Benjamin Combes, Philately and IRC Manager, UPU, said “The 150th anniversary of the Universal Postal Union is being celebrated throughout the international postal sector. In this packed year of celebrations, we are seeing some remarkable products being issued.
Isle of Man Post Office is honouring us with these stamps featuring some unique and historical philatelic items, including the ground-breaking Rome-model international reply coupon, as well as some of the first commemorative stamp issues, in an attractive modern design. We are touched by the enthusiasm shown by the men and women of Isle of Man Post Office as they join in these worldwide celebrations!”
“Le 150e anniversaire de l’Union postale universelle (UPU) est célébré par l’ensemble du secteur postal international, c’est une année de célébration intense et riche, marquée par l’émission d’œuvres exceptionnelles. Isle of Man Post nous honore par la réédition de produits philatéliques uniques et historiques, faisant le choix de faire rayonner des produits innovants d’époque (IRC model Rome) et commémoratifs historiques dans un design moderne de premier plan. Nous sommes marqués par le formidable enthousiasme des postiers mannois et mannoises à participer à ces célébrations internationales.”
Maxine Cannon, General Manager Stamps & Coins said: “This stamp issue not only honours 150 years of the UPU but also celebrates the Isle of Man’s rich postal heritage. I would like to express sincere thanks to the Isle of Man Postal History Society who work tirelessly to ensure Manx postal history is documented and in doing so is highly prized by collectors worldwide. This collection serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of international cooperation in postal services and the Isle of Man's significant role in this history.”
For more information and to purchase these commemorative stamps, available as Set, Presentation Pack and First Day Cover, visit www.iompost.com/UPU150
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