150 years of the Universal Postal Union - one million stamps issued
To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Universal Postal Union (UPU), Poczta Polska is launching a philatelic series that includes a postage stamp, a first-day cover (FDC), and a date stamp. This unique edition commemorates the rich history and importance of the UPU in developing global postal services and international communication, bringing people and countries closer together around the world.
The stamp depicts an envelope icon embedded within a geolocation marker, symbolizing a modern approach to information exchange. In the background is a fragment of the globe seen from space, emphasizing the global nature of the UPU's activities. Designer A. Tobolczyk created a graphic in line with modern trends, referencing advanced technologies supporting modern postal services and emphasizing the UPU's importance in international postal communication in the 21st century.
The First Day of Delivery (FDC) envelope showcases the global connections between countries, depicting a world map adorned with geometric elements symbolizing the flow of information and international postal destinations. This motif further underscores the UPU's mission as an organization integrating global postal services.
The date stamp is adorned with a geometrically stylized carrier pigeon—a symbol associated with postal communication for centuries. Its modern design combines tradition with the UPU's values, such as freedom of speech and the free flow of information, which the organization promotes worldwide.
The design of the series was approved by the Universal Postal Union, which considered that it fully reflects the importance of developing the postal sector as a key element of the global society of the future.
About the Universal Postal Union
The Universal Postal Union (UPU) is one of the oldest international organizations, founded by the Treaty of Berne on October 9, 1874. In 1948, the UPU became a specialized agency of the United Nations, whose primary purpose is to coordinate international postal services, promote innovation in postage, and establish quality standards. It has 192 member states, and Poland joined the organization on May 1, 1919.
stamps commemorating the UPU
on numerous occasions, recognizing its role in the international postal system. In 1949, the UPU's 75th anniversary was commemorated, with subsequent issues marking the 100th anniversary in 1974 and the 125th anniversary in 1999. The latest stamp, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the UPU, continues this tradition, expressing appreciation for the UPU as a key organization supporting global communication and social integration.
150 years of the Universal Postal Union
designer: Agata Tobolczyk
number of stamps: 1
value: PLN 2
circulation: 1,000,000 pcs
printing technique: rotogravure
stamp format: 25.5 x 31.25 mm
paper: fluorescent
sales sheet: 100 stamps
date of introduction into circulation: October 30, 2024