eD@HoMe

World's rarest stamp accidentally destroyed on live TV

2011-12-22T01:09:00.000+08:00

3 FDCs to share!!!

2011-12-01T22:50:00.001+08:00

Many thanks to Hong-Yi Ka for this amazing FDC cover posted from Kaohsiung City, Taiwan!

Entitled "Nine Elders of Mt. Hsiang", the souvenir sheet depicts a scene from a party on Mt. Hsiang during Tang Emperor Wuzong's reign in 845 A.D. Because the party's host, Tang poet Bai Ju-yi, and his eight guests were all well over 70 years of age, they were called the nine elders.

The expressions of the figures are vivid and refined, and the lines of their clothes, the trees, and the boulders are strong and rugged, with brushstrokes that convey great power. Though the painting is small, the spatial composition is so clearly defined. The painting is unsigned but thought to be painted by Liu Song-nian of the Song Dynasty.

The second FDC that I am sharing was posted from Pori, a city on the west coast of Finland. Many thanks to Johanna Palonen!

Entitled "Light in the window", the stamps depict a night scene in the winter time, with lights in the attic rooms.

Last but not least, we have a lovely FDC posted from Kullu, India. Thank you very much, Jeevan Jyoti!

Entitled "Rashtrapati Bhavan", meaning Presidential House or Palace, the 4 commemorative stamps show the official residence of the President of India, Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil. The postage stamps mark the 80th Anniversary of the commissioning of the building, when the then Governor General of india, Lord Irwin became its first occupant.

To make up the postage, Jyoti used a stamp featuring a portrait of Indira Gandhi (19 Nov 1917 - 31 Oct 1984), who served as the third Prime Minister of India for three consecutive terms (1966-77) and a fourth term (1980-84). She was assassinated by Sikh extremists.

2 Awesome Covers From America!

2011-11-30T23:45:00.001+08:00

Once again many thanks to Cernjul Viviana for this wonderful cover posted from Argentina!

The stamps belong to the "UPAEP America, Old Mail Boxes" series, issued in 2011.

The second cover was posted from the USPS United States Post Office Midlakes Station in Bellevue, Washington on 21 Nov 2011. Many thanks to Bryon Peterson!

The beautiful stamps on this cover are from a sheet of 12 stamps, entitled "Pioneers of American Industrial Design", issued on 29 Jun 2011. Honoring 12 of the nation's most important and influential industrial designers, the stamps depict everything from furniture and electric kitchen appliances to corporate office buildings and passengers trains, the work of these designers defined the look of modern America, and in doing, revolutionized the way Americans live and work.

My First Cover From Chile!!!

2011-11-29T22:33:00.000+08:00

Extremely delighted to receive this lovely cover posted from Lumaco, Chile! Many thanks to Pablo Guerra for offering to exchange!

The beautiful stamp franked on the top left corner belongs to the "UPAEP, National Festivals" series, issued on 09.08.2008.

The two $250 denomination stamps were issued on 17.08.2008 to commemorate the International Polar Year. An international Polar Year or IPY is a year or so during which many nations coordinate their Polar expeditions, observations and analyses. The third IPY has ended, having begun in 2007, and continued until 2009.

The three $20 stamps belong to a lovely set of 10 cute stamps, entitled "Professions".

This cover was postmarked on 12 Nov 2011 in Antofagasta, a port city in northern Chile and took 17 days to reach me! Hope that my cover will reach Chile soon!

3 Lovely Greek Covers

2011-11-28T23:25:00.002+08:00

Many thanks to Soulimiotis Spyros for these awesome covers posted from Crete, Greece!

The four lovely stamps on this registered cover belong to the "Children Book" series (2011), "Events" series (2011), "Dances" definitives (2002) & "Paralympics" series (2004) respectively.

Next we have stamps from "Historical Sport Clubs" series (2007), "Olympic" series (2004) & "Special Olympics Athens 2011" series.

Soulimiotis even took the effort to send me this lovely 11.11.11 cover! It bears the stamps from the "Architecture" series (2010), "Destination Greece" series (2011), "Christmas" series (2010) & "Special Olympics Athens 2011" respectively.

3 Awesome Covers!

2011-11-27T02:43:00.006+08:00

Hello again! Three awesome covers to share with you guys today.

This first cover was posted from Ottawa, Canada. Many thanks to Maryam Muhammad Irwan!

On 21 April 2011, in honor of the U.N.'s International Year of Forests, Canada Post released a two-stamp issue (2 se-tenant stamps on the right) that speaks to both the diversity and intrinsic value of Canada's forest. The stamps offer two views of the contemporary forest; one showing the marvel of life found in the forest floor and the other depicting the sheer strength and lush fecundity of a new growth North American rainforest through a close-up of new trees that culminates in a fresh canopy of green leaves.

The left stamp was released on 29 April 2011 to mark the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Next, we have a lovely cover posted from Everett, Washington, U.S.A.. Many thanks to Bryon Peterson!

The stamps were issued on 28 September 2011 to honor Romare Bearden (1911-1988), one of the 20th Century's most distinguished American artists. Four collages by Bearden are featured in the stamp art: Conjunction (1971); Odysseus: Poseidon, The Sea God - Enemy of the Odysseus (1977); Prevalence of Ritual: Conjur Woman (1964); and Falling Star (1979).

Last but not least, is a beautiful cover posted from Vaduz, Liechtenstein. Many thanks to Vural Oguz!

To commemorate the coming Year of the Dragon (23 Jan 2012 - 9 February 2013), Liechtenstein Post released the first silhouette postage stamp - in the image of a dragon! Designed by Stefan Erne, the self-adhesive stamps were cut out using state-of-the art laser technology.

150th Anniversary of the Memorandum of the Slovak Nation Cover

2011-09-15T00:01:00.005+08:00

Once again many thanks to Robert Brnka for yet another lovely cover posted from Bratislava, Slovakia!

On 6th June 2011, Slovak Post issued a commemorative stamp dealing with one of the most significant events of the modern Slovak history - Declaration of the Memorandum of the Slovak Nation on June 6 - 7, 1861 at the national assembly in Martin.

The Slovaks tried to obtain acknowledgement of their national individuality and drawing political consequences of this acknowledgement - obtaining Home Rule on a designed area (Slovak area) which they inhibated. It was related to the renewal of political life in the Austrian Empire, where the Slovaks lived after the fall of the Bach's absolutism. It followed the October Certificate of the Emperor of 1860 promising the renewal of free political life. Since this life was supposed to be carried out in historically constitutional monarchy units, the Slovaks sent their memorandum primarily to the Diet of Hungarian Kingdom. It, however, refused to deal with it. After the Diet was dismissed, the permanent committee elected in Martin turned to the Emperor with the Memorandum.

This so called Vienna Memorandum was supplemented with the Privilege (constitution) for the Slovak area in which the constitutional position of the Slovak nation within the Monarchy was determined. At that time the Memorandum was not successful, its ideas, however, were the basis of the Slovak political program until 1938.

A Lovely Swiss Cover!

2011-09-14T00:35:00.005+08:00

Many thanks to Vural Oguz for this wonderful cover posted from Geuensee, Switzerland!

The boy scout stamp belongs to a group of six postage stamps (SC#422-27) issued in 1963 with themes such as Scout, Red Cross and Freedom from Hunger.

The stamp in the middle was issued on 5th May 2011 to celebrate Switzerland's part in the Venice Biennale, an international art exhibition held every two years.

This Swiss stamp is one of the most unlikely pieces of art designed by Swiss-born, Paris based artist, Thomas Hirschhorn who is known for his larger than life room-size installations. In designing this stamp as a piece of torn cardboard, Hirschhorn drew inspiration from his earlier works: as an unknown artist in the 1980s, he wrote on cardboard signs and placed them in house doorways or under windscreen wipers.

Last but not least, we have a lovely bee stamp named "Honey Bee" which was released on 3rd March 2011.

2 Awesome Croatian Covers!!

2011-09-13T17:55:00.002+08:00

Sharing with you guys today are 2 awesome covers posted from Donja Lomnica, Croatia. Thank you very much, Ivana Perunski!

The beautiful stamp affixed on the top left corner of the first cover was issued on 15 July 2011 by Croatian Post to commemorate its "Statehood Day". The motif of the stamp is a detail of the flag of Croatia. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the day when the Croatian Parliament, on 25 June 1991, decided that Croatia should be separated from the other Yugoslavian republics, which meant that Croatia became an independent country for the first time after nine centuries.

The three Lobster postage stamps were issued on 15 March 2007. Lovely, aren't they?

Issued on 16 March 2010, the Strawberry stamp belongs to a set of 3 postage stamps, entitled "Croatian Fruits". The other stamps in this series depict Gooseberry and Grape.

Lastly, the portrait stamp is from the "Famous Croats" series. Issued on 22 April 2011, it features August Harambasic, a gifted Croatian poet, orator and politician from the late 19th and early 20th century.

On 14 Feb 2011, Croatian Post released its first 2011 stamp, entitled "Children's World". The stamp (shown on the extreme left corner of the second cover) is dedicated to the International Children's Festival in Sibenik and bears the motif of a child holding colourful balloons.

The lovely falcon stamp is from 'Croatian Fauna" series, issued on 15 March 2011. The stamps in this series feature endangered species which inhabit the territory of the Republic of Croatia: the brown bear (face value HRK 1.60), Eloenora's Falcon (HRK 3.10) and the Mediterranean Monk Seal (HRK 4.60).

Next is a football-themed commemorative stamp released by Croatian Post to mark the start of one of the most important sporting events in the world, FIFA World Cup 2010 which took place in South Africa from 11 june to 11 July 2010.

The two identical stamps belong to the "Croatian Ethnographic Heriatge" series, showing colourful textiles from Sunja culture.

The blue stamp is from the "Lighthouses" series. Issued on 7 Sept 2010, it shows a lighthouse in Tajer.

That's all folks! Cheers!

An Interesting Finnish Cover!

2011-09-12T17:10:00.002+08:00

Many thanks to Johanna Palonen for this lovely FDC featuring one of the Dahlia circular postage stamps, issued on 1st April 2011.

Dahlia originates in North America and Mexico and they were brought to Europe as early as in the 16th century.

It is interesting to note that the Dahlia stamp was cancelled with a "The Cultural 2011 Tall Ships Regatta" postmark!

Postage Heritage Buildings Cover from India!

2011-09-07T23:43:00.000+08:00

Hi guys, sorry for my absence! Something happened at work last week and I hardly have the mood to blog...

I would do a quickie today to thanks Ratnadeep Mondal for this lovely cover posted from Kolkata, India. Thank you very much my friend!

The six beautiful stamps were issued by India Post on 13 May 2010 to commemorate INDIPEX 2011-World Philatelic Exhibition held in New Delhi FROM 12-18 Feb 2011.

From left to right, top to bottom, they depict Udagamandalam H.P.O., Shimla G.P.O., Delhi G.P.O., Lucknow G.P.O., Nagpur G.P.O. and Cooch Behar H.P.O.

That's all folks! Talk to you guys again soon! Bye!

Greek Shipping Cover

2011-08-30T01:37:00.001+08:00

Many thanks to Soulimiotis Spyros for this beautiful cover posted from Crete, Greece!

The lovely postage stamp affixed on this cover belongs to a set of six stamps entitled 'Greek Shipping', issued in 2011.

An Awesome U.S. Merchant Marine Cover!

2011-08-27T00:17:00.000+08:00

Here's a lovely cover from Bryon Peterson. Thank you so much!

On 31 July 2011, the U.S. Postal Service salutes the U.S. Merchant Marine by issuing 60 million Forever stamps, featuring types of vessels that have formed an important part of merchant marine history. They are clipper ships, auxiliary steamships, Liberty ships and containers ships.

The U.S. Merchant Marine stamps are being issued as Forever stamps, meaning they are always equal in value to the current First-Class Mail one-ounce rate.

That' all guys! Enjoy your weekend!

A lovely registered cover from Malaysia!

2011-08-26T00:55:00.003+08:00

Many thanks to fellow blogger Khor Kok Keong for this lovely registered cover posted from Perak, Malaysia!

The Miniature Sheet affixed on the top right corner was issued on 1st August 2008 to commemorate the International Dragon Boat Federation Club Crew World Championship 2008 held in Penang, Malaysia.

For this stamp issue, there are 3 designs of stamps and a miniature sheet which portray the dragon boat race as a sport that promotes positive values including teamwork and friendship. Members from each team can be seen to be full of concentration at the respective roles; paddlers rowing hard to a synchronized drumbeat by a drummer and the steerer at the rear of the boat controlling the direction of the boat. Dragon Boat racing is an ancient traditional sport which is now shared and enjoyed by people all around the world.

What caught my attention was that this is actually an imperforate Miniature Sheet!

I did some research and found that the imperforate MS is a limited edition and only sold at the philately counter of the Pos Malaysia headquarter in Kuala Lumpur. So I guess i must be a lucky guy to own one!

The ten identical stamps on the cover belong to the Agro-based Product State definitives, issued on 25th October 1986. All states of Malaysia issued the definitive stamps of the same design, but with their respective state names.

Seven different denominations portraying seven agricultural products were released. 1c is coffee, 2c is coconut, 5c is cocoa, 10c is black pepper, 15c is rubber, 20c is oil palm and 30c is rice.

The beautiful red flower stamp belongs to the Malaysia State definitive series collection - Garden Flowers. Issued in 2007, it was to replace the earlier Agro-based Product State definitives.

The 5 sen stamp features the sacred lotus, 10 sen is Hydrangea, 20 sen is Red Lily, 30 sen is Bougainvillea, 40 sen is Morning Glory and 50 sen is Hisbiscus (Malaysia National Flower).

Veteran Motor Cars Cover from Slovakia!

2011-08-24T21:35:00.001+08:00

Once again many thanks to Robert Brnka for this wonderful cover posted from Slovakia!

On 1st July 2011, the Slovak Post issued a set of stamps dedicated to the veteran cars Tatra and Aero 30.

Tatra, well known as "eight", was produced from 1936 to 1950. It is a typical example of high-tech pre-war Czechoslovakian industries. Its arrival on the automotive market has caused a stir not only because of its typical flat-shaped stabilizing fins at the rear of the hood, but also the typical three beams on the front mask, covered rear wheels and compact body shell. The vehicle had an eight-cylinder, air-cooled engine with a volume of 2,968 cm3 stored behind the rear axle, which thanks to its excellent features along with the aerodynamic bodywork was able to bestow speeds of up to160 km / h, consuming only 12.5 litres of petrol. It was designed for middle class users because, given the size and furnishing of the interior, it provided very comfortable travel. A completely unique use of the vehicle was an expedition which touched the heart of perhaps every boy or man with a desire to learn about new and undiscovered places. Witnesses can recall the fascinating adventure of two engineers, Hanzelka and Zikmund, during their three-year journey through Africa and South America which they undertook in a Tatra 87 with its completely serial construction.

In the beginning of 1930s a sporty-tuned type Aero 30 was designed with a dynamic body shell with a characteristically long engine bonnet (therefore the nickname Czech Jaguar), powered by a two-cylinder two-stroke engine with the performance of 30 k, being transferred to the front wheels. Post-war attempts to recover the Aero automobile tradition was shattered in 1947. Nowadays, Aeros belong to favourite collection objects of Slovak antique auto enthusiasts, who have preserved these automobiles as a part of the cultural, technical and historical heritage for the future.

A registered letter from Argentina!

2011-08-22T23:52:00.000+08:00

Just a short post to share this lovely registered cover received from an eBayer from Argentina.

Issued on 24th Sept 2008, the stamps are part of a set of seven stamps featuring some typical landscape of different region of Argentina.

Ronald Reagan Cover

2011-08-20T22:59:00.001+08:00

Another great cover from the United States. This time posted from Los Angeles. Thank you very much to Jefferson Hadi!

On 10th Feb 2011, USPS marked the 100th Birthday of the 40th president of the United States, Ronald Reagan with the release of a Forever stamp (middle stamp on the cover).

The other two postage stamps, a Liberty Bell Forever stamp and 10c American Clock stamp from the "American Design" definitive series make up the postage.

A registered letter from Israel!

2011-08-19T23:26:00.003+08:00

Sharing with you guys today is a registered letter sent by an eBayer from Israel!

The two stamps affixed on the cover belong to the "Israel Historical Sites" and "Virtual Communication" series, issued in 2001 and 2009 respectively.

That's all guys. Enjoy your weekend!

Hello! 2 Lovely Slovak covers to share!

2011-08-18T18:46:00.001+08:00

Hi there! I know it has been days since I last updated this blog... was busy exploring my new toy, IPAD 2!! Downloading applications, games, photos and converting DVDs into mp4...

Have never regret buying it... basically i never leave the house without it!!

Back to philately, sharing with you today are 2 lovely covers sent by Robert Brnka posted from Bratislava, Slovakia. Thank you very much!

The first cover bears two beautiful stamps from '2011 Children's Stamp' series and 'Europa 2011: Forests - National Park Poloniny' series respectively. it's a pity that it was not postmarked.

The artwork of the Children postage stamp originates from the national art competition MONTH OF CHILDREN’S CREATION dedicated to both physically and mentally handicapped children regardless of age. The competition’s topic was I WILL DRAW A FLOWER CHILDREN’S STAMP.

The second cover shows a lovely stamp from the 'Sights of our Homeland - Dobsinska ice cave' series, issued on 15th April 2011.

Dobšinská Ice Cave is located in the Slovak Paradise National Park in the Spiš-Gemer karst, in the cadastre of municipality Dobšiná. Cave entrance is on the northern slope of the Duča Hill at elevation of 969 m, near the village named Dobšinská Ľadová Jaskyňa. It was discovered on June 15, 1870 by Eugen Ruffiny accompanied by Gustáv Lang and Andrej Mega.

The cave was formed as a part of bigger complex, the so-called Stratenská Nappe, by the river Hnilec in the Middle Triassic pale Steinalm and Wetterstein limestones, along the tectonic faults and interbed surfaces. Dobšinská Ice Cave was formed approximately 400 thousand years ago, when the massive collapse separated it from this system. The cave obtained sack-like character with stagnation of cold air, enabling natural glaciations of the underground space. Ice fill occurs in the form of floor ice, icefalls, ice stalagmites and columns. The ice volume reaches 110,100 m3. The cave reaches the length of 1,388 m, of these 495 m are accessible for the public.

OK that's all for now... back to my ipad!

An awesome cover from Lithuania!

2011-08-13T00:18:00.001+08:00

Many thanks to Yuri Kitaev for posting this lovely cover during his summer vacations in Lithuania!

Lithuania is a country in northern Europe, the biggest of the three Baltic states. it is situated along the southeastern shore of the Baltic Sea, and across the Baltic Sea to the west lie Sweden and denmark. It shares borders with Latvia to the north, Belarus to the southeast, poland to the southwest, and Russia to the west.

The top right stamp affixed on this lovely cover was released on 30 July 2011 from the continuous series "Coats of Arms of Lithuania Towns". It depicts the coats of arms of Kasiadorys.

The three houses stamps belong to the "Wooden Sacral Architecture of Lithuania" definitive series. They show the Church of Inturke (2009) and Church of Prienai (2008) respectively.

More information on these stamps can be found here (Catalogue of Lithuania Postage Stamp 1990-2011).

2011 Census of India cover!

2011-08-11T17:48:00.002+08:00

Many thanks to Ratnadeep Mondal for this wonderful cover posted from Bengal, India!

On 8th Feb 2011, India Post issued a commemorative stamp to mark the 2011 Census of India (bottom stamp).

Census 2011 covered 35 States/Union Territories, 640 districts, 5,924 sub-districts, 7,935 Towns and 6,40,867 Villages. There is an increase of 47 Districts, 461 Sub Districts, 2774 Towns (242 Statutory and 2532 Census Towns) and 2279 Villages in Census 2011 as compared to Census 2001.

The demographics of India are inclusive of the second most populous country in the world, with over 1.21 billion people, more than a sixth of the world's population. Already containing 17.5% of the world's population, india is projected to be the world's most populous country by 2025, surpassing China, its population exceeding 1.6 billion people by 2050. Its population growth rate is 1.41%, ranking 93rd in the world.

The four se-tenant stamps belong to the "Traditional Indian Textiles" series, which I had blogged before in my previous post.

Chinese classical literature FDC from Taiwan!

2011-08-07T01:01:00.002+08:00

To promote understanding about Chinese classical literature, on 21 Jul 2011 Chunghwa Post released another "Chinese Classic Novel: Journey to the West" stamp set, featuring "Swindling Treasures", "Crossing the River on turtle's Back", "Achieving Nirvana" and "Red Boy" (top right stamp as seen on this FDC sent by Kia Hsu).

In addition, Kia Hsu affixed a Giant Panda ATM stamp to make up for the postage. Thank you!

A magnificent cover from Dubai!

2011-08-06T00:20:00.000+08:00

Many thanks to Ganesh Potphode for this awesome GCC Stamp Exhibition FDC posted from Dubai, UAE!

To commemorate the 17th GCC Postage Stamp Exhibition held in Abu Dhabi from 4th to 9th April 2011, Emirates Post has issued a special stamp in the denomination of 150 Fils, along with a first day cover.

The GCC Stamp Exhibition was organized by Emirates Post in coordination with the Emirates Association to showcase rare and valuable stamps and postal history from the Gulf Cooperation Council, namely Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates.

The other two stamps on the cover were issued on 2nd Dec 2009 and 17th July 2007, to celebrate the 38th National Day of United Arab Emirates and to honor Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Hasher Al Maktoum (Shooter) for winning the 1st UAE Olympic Gold Medalist held in Athens 2004 respectively.

My Mulready Cover that I got from the eBay!

2011-08-04T16:54:00.001+08:00

Mulready covers are elaborated decorated, pre-paid envelopes issued in the UK in 1840, at the same time as the Penny Black, the world's first postage stamp. Issued in both one-penny and two-penny denominations, the Mulready were regarded by many people of the time as an embarrassing Folly. Apparently their elaborate, fanciful design was considered paternalistic and condescending, hence they saw little use, and were withdrawn, but are popular collectibles now.

They are essentially the earliest stamped envelopes. Rowland Hill, their sponsor (and the man generally consider the inventor of the postage stamp), expected them to be the primary vehicle for letters, and issued stamps as well almost as an afterthought. But the public preferred stamps. Most of the Mulready stock had to be destroyed, making them rather scarce today.

African Animals Cover from Poland!

2011-08-03T18:25:00.001+08:00

Received this lovely cover posted from Poland from fellow ICCC member, Zdzislaw Socha! Thank you very much!

The two stamps affixed on the cover are part of four stamps in a miniature sheet issued by Polish Post on 30th April 2009, entitled "Animals of Africa".

Zdzislaw Socha even took the effort to print out a Singapore map on this cover!

A lovely cover from Slovakia!

2011-08-02T18:40:00.000+08:00

Once again many thanks to Robert Brnka for this lovely cover posted from Slovakia!

The cute lamb stamp was issued on 4th March 2011 to commemorate Easter, the most important Christian festival.

Just like the blood of lamb of God saved the old Israelites in ancient Egypt from ten plagues of God, the death of Jesus Christ saved all Christians from external damnation. Therefore, the lamb became a symbol not only of Jesus Christ, but also of the Easter.

The se-tenant stamps affixed on the top right were issued on 25th March 2011 to mark the Ice Hockey World Champions.

This cover was postmarked on 26th July 2011 in Bratislava and took a week to reach me.

An Owls FDC from Taiwan!

2011-08-01T17:30:00.000+08:00

Many thanks to Hong Yi Ka for this lovely registered FDC from Taiwan!

To increase public understanding of owls, on 7th July 2011 Chunghwa Post issues a set of four stamps on the owls of Taiwan, featuring Long-eared Owl (Asio otus), Oriental Scops Owl (Otus sunia), Tawny Owl (Strix aluco) and Collared Owlet (Glaucidium brodiei).

My First Greek Cover!

2011-07-31T02:39:00.002+08:00

Many thanks to Spyros for this awesome cover posted from Chania, Crete Island, Greece!

The beautiful stamp affixed on the top left corner belongs to the "Greek Popular Music" series. Issued on 16th Sept 2010, this stamp depicts one of the leading Greek composers, Vassilis Tsitsanis (1915-1984). Tsitsanis wrote more than 500 songs and is widely regarded as one of the founders of modern Rebetika.

The other stamps in this set features Giorgos Zampetas (0.20 euro), Stellos Kazantzidis (0.58), Grigoris Bithikotsis (0.72), Vicky Moscholiou (1.00) and Sotiria Bellou (4.80).

Next on the cover are three lovely stamps from the "Greek Islands" series, issued on 14th Oct 2010. They depict the Greek islands of Paros (lower left), Ithaki (middle) and Tinos (top right).

That's all folks! Enjoy your weekend!

A lovely cover from Croatia!

2011-07-30T00:10:00.001+08:00

It has been a while since I received a cover from Croatia. This time it was posted from the city of Donja Lomnica. Many thanks to Ivana Perunski!

On this cover, the two stamps on the top left belong to the "Croatian Flora" series, issued in 2006. They show the White Water Lily and the Yellow Pond Lily respectively.

The brown bear stamp was issued on 15 March 2011 from the "Croatian Fauna" series. Another two stamps that depict the Eleonora's Falcon and Mediterranean Monk Seal make up a set.

The lovely miniature sheet, entitled "Peony Flower of Croatia" was released on 8 March 2010. It features the Wild Peony and Common Peony.

This cover was postmarked on 12 July 2011 and took 17 days to reach me.

A turtle cover from USA!

2011-07-28T16:45:00.000+08:00

On 7th Oct 2003, the United States Postal Service issued a beautiful set of 5 stamps, entitled "Reptiles and Amphibians". One of the stamps depict the Ornate Box Turtle.

Knowing that I love Turtle stamps, Bryon Peterson affixed the Ornate Box Turtle stamp on his latest cover to me. Thank you very much! The other two stamps depict the Reticulate Collared Lizard (center) and Blue Spootted Salamander (right).

This cover was postmarked on 21 Jul 2011 in Bellevue, Washington, U.S.A. and took only 5 days to reach me.

Struve Geodetic Arc Cover from Finland!

2011-07-27T16:31:00.001+08:00

Many thanks to Johanna Palonen for this awesome FDC posted from Pori, Finland!

On 6th May 2011, Finnish Post issued a very unique miniature sheet in honor of Struve Geodetic Arc.

The Struve Geodetic Arc was used for determining the size and shape of the globe. The arc, which approximately 2,820 km long, extends from the Black Sea in Ukraine all the way to the Arctic Ocean in Norway. The arc was named after F.G.W.Struve who managed the measurement in 1816-1855. The arc measurement stations are located in ten countries. The 34 most representative measurement points were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as a joint site of ten countries in 2005. The miniature sheet indicates the six points located in Finland. The two stamps in the release are within each other in the miniature sheet. The outer stamp is round, and the inner has the shape of the map of Finland.

This cover was postmarked on 19th July 2011 in Pori, Finland and took 7 days to reach me.

My Top Ten Chinese Stamps

2011-07-26T19:01:00.002+08:00

Once banned by Mao Zedong as a bourgeois activity, stamp collecting has become increasing popular in China in recent years. While early collectors were from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the International Chinese diaspora, some important Mainland Chinese collectors are today "repatriating" stamps, in the same way that others are bringing back Chinese artworks.

According to the All-China Philatelic Federation, there are about 50,000 philately association in the country, comprising more than 20 million collectors. Guess it must be an exciting time for both Philatelists and investors! However, experts warn what's in the attic probably isn't worth very much. Unless it's from the "cultural revolution" period or form the Qing Dynasty.

I am lucky to own a few good Chinese stamps and here is my Top Ten list.

No. 10 - Goldfish (Issued: 1960)

No. 9 - Xinanjiang Hydro-electric Power (Issued: 1964)

No. 8 - 1st Sports Meet (Issued: 1966)

No. 7 - Great Chairman Mao (Issued: 1967)

No. 6 - Suzhou Garden (Issued: 1980)

No 5 - Zodiac Stamps (Issued: 1980-1991)

No. 4 - Peonies (Issued: 1964)

No. 3 - Landscapes of Huangshan (Issued: 1963)

No. 2 - Mao Zedong, Art and Literature (Issued: 1968)

No. 1 - Poems of Chairman Mao (Issued: 1967)

My Top Ten First Issues!

2011-07-26T01:52:00.006+08:00

Having shared with you guys some of my unique and strange stamps... now pls also check out my top ten first issues!

No. 10 - France

Issued: Jan 1, 1849 (Scott # 3)

# Issued: 41,698,800

You may have thought that # 1 would be the first but that is not always the case. As a matter of fact, Scott # 3 (above left stamp) was one of the first two stamps issued in France!

Scott # 1 (right) was issued on Sept 12, 1850.

No. 9 - Japan

Issued: April 20, 1871

# Issued: ?

The stamps were printed using two plates for the Dragon and one plate for each value.

No. 8 - Brazil

Issued: August 1, 1843

# Issued: 856,617 (30 reis), 1,335,865 (60 reis)

The stamps have earned the nick-name "Bull Eyes", or "Olhos de Boi" in Portuguese.

No. 7 - Russia

Issued: Jan 1, 1858

#Issued: 3,000,000

No. 6 - Province of Canada

Issued: April 23, 1851

# Issued: 250,200

The stamps were withdrawn after New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and the Province of Canada formed the Dominion of Canada on July 1, 1867.

No. 5 - China

Issued: August 1878

# Issued: ?

1 candarin green (Scott# 1), 3 candarins brown red (Scott# 2, above), 5 candarins orange (Scott# 3)

No. 4 - Canton Zurich, Switzerland

Issued: march 1, 1843

# Issued: ?

The 4 rappen stamp is inscribed Local-Taxe and was used for mail within the city of Zurich.

The 6 rappen is inscribed Cantonal-Taxe and was used for mail within the canton, but outside of the city.

No. 3 - Canton Geneva

Issued: Sept 30, 1843

# Issued: 60,000 pairs

The people of Geneva were reluctant to use these new stamps, so from March, 1844 they were sold for 8 centimes even though the face value is 10 centimes. A half stamp, face value 5 centimes, was sold for 4 centimes. The half stamp was only valid within a locality, the whole stamp was valid for mail between localities in the whole canton. Covers, especially with double-stamps, are exceedingly rare.

No. 2 - United States of America

Issued: July 1, 1847

# Issued: 3,717,500 (Scott# 1, left), 892,802 (Scott# 2, right)

The 5-cent stamp paid for a letter weighing less than 1 ounce and traveling less than 300 miles, the 10-cent stamp for deliveries to locations greater than 300 miles, or, twice the weight deliverable for the 5-cent stamp.

No. 1 - Great Britain

Issued: May 6, 1840

#Issued: 68,808,000

Penny Black stamps were first issued in 1840 and named so, due to it costing one penny and made entirely with black ink. This stamp was the world's earliest prepaid, gummed postage stamp of a public postal system.

Unique and Special Stamps

2011-07-22T19:00:00.004+08:00

Last night, I was looking through my stamps collection and so I thought I would share with you some of my unique and strange stamps.

The small Himalayan nation of Bhutan is famous for its stamps, including the first ever silk stamps, made of Bhutanese thangkas.

More recently, Bhutan introduced postage stamps that doubles as actual CD-ROMs

This 2007 stamp printed on thinly sliced cork is from Portugal, commemorating the country's cork industry, which produces around 30% of the world supply

The first Steel stamps from Bhutan!

Choco Suisse, a chocolate stamp, was issued by Switzerland in 2001. This stamp comes in a foil-wrapped booklet, like a chocolate bar, which also smell like one

Souvenir sheet of two stamps with Swarovski crystals affixed. The block was issued on 20th Sept 2004 in a cooperation between Swarovski and Austrian Post. Only 800,000 blocks are produced

This football (Soccer) stamp was issued by Austria in march 2008. This stamp is made with the same plastic polyurethane that is used to manufacture the official football of the UEFA

In 2005, Austria issued the first of a commemorate series of embroidered stamps

In 2008, Singpost (Singapore Post) commissioned specially-designed beaded postage stamps to celebrate the opening of the Peranakan Museum

The first "talking" stamps, tiny vinyl records that played Bhutan's national anthem and a brief history of the country when spun on a phonograph!

Who says Stamps collecting is Boring?

Postcards from Paris!!

2011-07-21T21:57:00.001+08:00

Last month, my wife and I visited the City of Lights, Paris. It was our second visit but trust me, some things get even better the second time.

On both trips, we were awed by the stunning beauty of the city. We ascended to the tip of the iconic Eiffel Tower for a spectacular 360 degree panorama of Paris' boulevards and monuments, marveled at the astounding collection of paintings and artefacts on display at the Louvre, shopped along the Champs Elysees, climbed to the top of the triumphal arch, strolled along the Seine River, enjoyed the rides in Disneyland and of cos not forgetting to send one or two postcards back to Singapore (in fact 5 cards).

Here are 4 postcards (1 got lost in mail) which we sent to ourselves.

Before I go, I would like to share with you some photos of our memorable Paris trip. Au revoir!

A lovely french cover!

2011-07-19T21:15:00.002+08:00

On 30th May 2011, the french Post released a set of 24 self-adhesive cartoon postage stamps dedicated to french traditions. Many thanks to Francois Leboucher, two of the beautiful stamps can be seen affixed on this lovely cover posted from Pornichet, a coastal town of the Cote dAmour, western France.

A beautiful cover from Liechtenstein!

2011-07-18T18:41:00.000+08:00

Here's a cover posted from the sixth smallest yet one of the richest country in the world, Liechtenstein! Many thanks to Vural Oguz!!

The beautiful stamp on the left belongs to the "Views of the Villages" definitive series, issued on 4th March 1996.

The stamp in the middle was released in 2009, the third series of stamps under the theme "Brand Liechtenstein". It features the 'Red House' in Vaduz built in the 13th century and which has been in private hands for over 200 years.

The right stamp shows the magnificent Yellow and black Swallowtail butterfly which is native to Liechtenstein. It belongs to a set of 3 from the "Butterflies II" series, issued in 2010.

Chinese idiom cover from Hong Kong!

2011-07-17T23:53:00.001+08:00

A set of children stamps on the theme of "Chinese Idioms and Their stories" was released by the Hong Kong Post on 28th June 2011. This is the second issue of Chinese idioms stamps since the first set was received eagerly by philately enthusiasts and the general public in 2006.

Chinese idioms are set phrases which have evolved over thousands of years of use. They are succinct and expressive, vivid and figurative. Often originating from fables, Literature and historical facts or personages, their stories are full of references and the wisdom of the ages.

The set of stamps is themed on five Chinese idioms. One of them can be seen on the cover posted by Brian Kam. Thank you so much!

The stamp features a famous Chinese idiom "Mutual help in hard times". This idiom originates from Zhuangzi (369 - 286 BC), the famous Daoist philosopher born in the ancient China. It literally means that when the spring water dries up, the fishes stranded on land moisten each other with their saliva. The idiom is now used to describe people coming to each other's assistance during difficult times.

The bottom stamp belongs to the 2006 Bird definitive series.

My second cover from Luxembourg!

2011-07-16T10:18:00.003+08:00

Once again many thanks to Arturo Sparapano for this wonderful cover posted from Luxembourg!

The stamp commemorates former Grand Duke Jean's 90th Birthday, which took place on 5th Jan 2011.

Several times over the years, the Luxembourg P&T has released a stamp (or several) featuring a member of the Grand Ducal Family. Last year, stamps were released to mark Grand Duke Henri's tenth anniversary on the throne; and the 25th anniversary of Grand Duchess Charlotte's death in 1985. Stamps from the P&T from 1999 can be viewed on their website.

An Aviation cover from Malaysia!

2011-07-15T16:16:00.001+08:00

Imagine you were a Malayan in 1911. It must have been quite a sight then to see an aircraft, probably the first anyone had ever seen in their lives, land at a race course in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. But it did happen. That was the country's first recorded flight, by one G.P. Fuller who landed his Antoinette Monoplane at the race course in Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur.

This year marks 100 years since aviation came to Malaysia. To celebrate this occasion, Pos Malaysia Pos released a set of 3 commemorative stamps on 7th July 2011. The stamps were sold out in all post offices in the morning. It is learnt that the aviation body of Malaysia bought up over 40,000 sets leaving roughly 60,000 sets for sale at post office counters throughout Malaysia. Thanks to fellow stamps enthusiast and blogger, Khor Kok Keong, here is one lovely FDC posted from Ipoh, Malaysia. Lucky me!!

3 wonderful covers

2011-07-14T17:45:00.001+08:00

Just a short post to thanks Anwar Hekmat.S, Hong Yi ka and Yu.E.Kitaev for these 3 lovely covers posted from Iraq, Taiwan and Russia respectively. Kindly let me know should you guys not receive my returned cover yet.

A lovely Civil War cover from United States!

2011-07-12T21:17:00.000+08:00

To keep up the momentum, here is another lovely cover to share with you guys. Many thanks to B. Peterson!

On 12 April 2011, the U.S. Postal Service begins a series commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, joining others across the country in paying tribute to the American experience during the tumultuous years from 1861 to 1865.

Two stamp designs will be issued each year through 2015. For 2011, one stamp depicts the beginning of the war in April 1861 at Fort Sumter, South Carolina (right stamp on the cover), while the other depicts the first major battle of the war three months later at Bull Run, near Manassas, Virginia (Left stamp).

To make up for the postage, Peterson used a 10c definitive stamp from the "American Design" series.

Back after a long pause!

2011-07-11T19:17:00.003+08:00

Hi guys, I am back! Lots of covers received during this absence and lots of catch up to do!

Firstly, I would like to thanks Joze Kastelic for this beautiful Insects cover posted from Slovenia. In fact it is only my second cover from this beautiful country. Issued on 25th Sept 2009, the stamps depict a Stag Beetle (0,26), Rosalia Longicorn (0,30), Hermit Beetle (0,40) & Ground Beetle (0,45).

The second cover was posted from Slovakia. Many thanks to Robert Brnka once again! The stamps belong to the Cultural Heritage of Slovakia series, featuring The Church of St Georg in St Jur (issued on 28th Jan 2011), International Year of Chemistry (17th Jan 2011) & 20th Anniversary of the Foundation of the Visegrad Group (11 Feb 2011) respectively.

To celebrate the new Millennium, Canadian Post in 1999, issued a set of 3 stamps designed to, "bid farewell to the second millennium and usher in the third, paying home-age to printers, who began producing stamps in the 19th century and now stand poised to take postage into the twenty-first". All 3 stamps featured the dove of peace, but each was created to celebrate a different printing technique: the 55c denomination (extreme right stamp on the cover) used Lithography (the most common technique today), the 46c stamp a 'futuristic' hologram and the 95c stamp (first stamp from the left) utlilized the dying art of engraving.

To make up for the postage, Georges Ed. Pomerleau used a Beaver stamp, issued in 1988. Thank you very much!

Next, is a very colourful cover posted from the Maldives! Thanks very much to Clarence George. The stamps feature native animals such as Bagged finned Lion fish, Chaetodon, Common Pierrot & Hoopee Upupa epops.

In keeping with its traditions Magyar (Hungary) Posta in 2011 released a new postage stamp to send greetings at Easter (first stamp on the cover). The stamp design uses a reproduction of a work by the textile artist Erzsebet Szekeres entitled Hungarian Golgotha. The other stamp belongs to the Europa Gastronomy series (2005). Gastronomy is the art and science of good eating. Thank you very much to Meszlenyi Gabor for this awesome cover!

The next beautiful Czech cover was posted by Jiri Gyra. Thank you!! It features half a miniature sheet from the Nature Conservation: The Lower Moravia - UNESCO Biospheric Reservation series, issued on 5th Sept 2007.

Last but not least, Viviana sent me another lovely cover from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Greatly appreciated my friend!

Issued on 24th Sept 2008, the four stamps are part of a set of seven stamps featuring some typical landscape of different region of Argentina.

That's all for this post. Talk to you guys soon.

3 Awesome Czech Covers!!!

2011-03-14T17:49:00.001+08:00

Here I would like to thanks Francois Lebouncher, Jan Strnad and Dr. Radim J. Vasut respectively for these 3 awesome covers posted from Czech Republic. Thank you very much, my friends!

The first cover features stamps from the beautiful "Trebonsko fauna" series. Issued on 28th May 2008, the stamps depict the White-tailed Eagle and Red-crested Pochard.

The lovely pair of hand-painted portrait stamps on this second cover belongs to the "Personalities" series, issued on 29 September 2010. They depict Karel Zeman and Adolf Branald.

Karel Zeman (3 November 1910 -5 April 1989) was a Czech animator and filmmaker noted for their creativity and for blending live-action with animation and wonderful special effects. Born and raised in Moravia, he started out dressing windows and painting posters. From there Zeman made a few advertising films. In the mid-'40s, he created Mr. Prokouk the Bureaucrat, a popular cartoon character. He also began making short films and experimenting with different types of animation using drawings and puppet figures. Zeman began making feature films such as The Fabulous World of Jules Verne (1957) and Baron Munchausen (1962). ~ Sandra Brennan, Rovi.

Adolf Branald (1910 - 2008) was a prose writer, playwright and author of children's books. Born in Prague, he was the son of Richard Branald, actor, theatre director and playwright, and actress Marie Branaldová. As a child he lived in Prague, Plzeň, and accompanied his parents who were members of different theatre, operetta and opera companies on their travels. After the war he worked as a press manager at the Transport Ministry, and as an editor with the publishing house Československý spisovatel (1952 to 1959). He became a professional writer after 1960, but ten years later his books were banished by the communist regime. Branald's experience as a writer started when he and his father wrote several plays performed by amateur actors. His knowledge of actors and theatre influenced his works: he wrote realistic plays and books focused on ordinary people. His first independent work was a novel about members of the 19th century travelling theatre companies (Stříbrná paruka, 1947), the last one were his memoirs (Tichý společník) published in 2005 when he was 95 years old. Adolf Branald's works also appeared in newspapers and magazines, on the television (Branald being the author or one of the scriptwriters) and on the radio.

Last but not least, the third cover was franked with 3 beautiful stamps from the "Postal Museum", "Beauty of flowers" Definitive and "Census" series.

A lovely French cover!

2011-03-12T03:37:00.001+08:00

Over the past few years, I have been quite fortunate to travel quite a bit. There's no doubt Paris is one of the most beautiful cities that I have visited and is definitely one of my favorite. So I was extremely excited to receive this cover as it features 2 stamps which brought back the wonderful memories of my Paris visit back in 2007. Many thanks, Francois Lebouncher!!

The Notre-Dame de Paris, also known as Notre Dame, is a Roman Catholic cathedral and base of the Archbishopric of Paris.
The cathedral, located on the Île de la Cité, which is surrounded by the Seine River, is one of the best examples of French Gothic architecture. A Gallo-Roman temple dedicated to Jupiter once stood on the foundation of Notre Dame, and earlier two Medieval churches. Construction of the cathedral was conducted in three stages beginning in 1163 by Bishop Maurice de Sull during the reign of Louis VII, and took nearly 200 years to complete.

The Arc de Triomphe (Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile) is one of the most famous monuments in Paris.
It stands in the centre of the Place Charles de Gaulle at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. The Arc de Triomphe honours those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and the Napoleonic Wars, with the names of all French victories and generals inscribed on its inner and outer surfaces. Beneath its vault lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I.
Also worthy of mention is the beautiful envelope itself, showing a man harvesting salts in Guerande, a medieval town located in the West of France, in the French Département Loire-Atlantique.

That's all folks! Talk to you guys soon. Adieu!

Another Rabbit Cover!

2011-02-09T00:30:00.000+08:00

Many thanks to Brian Kam for this awesome 'Rabbit' cover posted from Hong Kong!

Each year since 1967, Hong Kong Post has been issuing special zodiac stamps to celebrate the Lunar New Year. On 22 January 2011, it issued yet another lovely set of 4 rabbit stamps.

Along was a stamp sheetlet featuring all 12 animals to mark this last issue in the third series.

Welcome The Rabbit Year!

2011-02-04T01:21:00.004+08:00

Singapore Post welcomes the Year of Rabbit (3rd February 2011 to 22th January 2012) with the release of the Rabbit Zodiac stamp issue - the fourth of 12 stamps in its Zodiac stamp series, which began in 2008 with the Year of the Rat.
As usual there are three stamp designs for this stamp issue comprise 1st local, S$0.65 and S$1.10 stamps.

Adding to the philatelic collection is the special Collector's Sheet (S$16.80) - the first-of-its-kind offset printing on hot foiled golden metallic film with matt UV varnish. Under this special effect, one can simultaneously view the Rabbit with the Tiger on the S$5 stamp. The S$10 stamp features the same interesting effect with the Rabbit and the next year’s zodiac animal, Dragon.

In the Chinese Zodiac there are twelve animal signs. They are in order as follows: the rat, the ox, the tiger, the rabbit, the dragon, the snake, the horse, the sheep, the monkey, the rooster, the dog and the pig. There are various legends that would explain the zodiac’s beginning. Here is one of the most popular.

Once upon a time, the Jade Emperor thought it'd be better to assign an animal to each year so people could more easily remember the Zodiac cycle. So he decided to hold a meeting with all the animals and he would choose 12 of them to be the Zodiac animals.

At that time, the rat and the cat were known to be the worst swimmers among the animal kingdom. Even though they couldn’t swim well they both displayed great intelligence. They both decided that since they couldn’t swim well that the best and quickest way to get across the river was to ride over there on the ox’s back. Since the ox was a good-natured animal and very naïve, he agreed to carry them on his back across the river. The rat was fiercely competitive and decided that if he was to win, he would need to push the cat into the river. Due to the rat’s deceitfulness the cat never forgave the rat and still hates water. As the ox neared the other bank of the river, the rat jumped off and raced to the shore first and became the first animal in the zodiac signs.

Following the rat closely was the strong ox that came in 2nd and won it’s place in the zodiac. The tiger followed in third place but complained that the strong currents kept pushing him downstream throughout the race but with his great strength made it to the shore.
The rabbit came next and told how he had jumped from one stone to the next nimbly and reached the other side of the river. The rabbit claims that he almost lost the race but was able to get hold of the floating log that carried him to the shore. That is how he became the fourth animal in the cycle.

The fifth animal to come across the river was the dragon that was belching fire and flying in the air. The dragon was asked by the Emperor that with his strong, flying abilities why he was not the first to arrive. The dragon answered that he needed to make rain so that he could help all of the creatures on earth. Then he saw the rabbit clinging helplessly to the log and he blew on the log to aid the rabbit in reaching the shore. The Emperor was so happy with this story that he added him to the cycle.

Next came the horse that actually had the snake on his hoof and when he saw the snake the horse got frightened and fell back. This is the explanation for the snake securing the sixth spot and the horse came in seventh.

Not too long after this, the ram, rooster and the monkey had helped each other get across the river and they showed up together. The rooster had found a raft and brought the other animals with it. The monkey and the ram cleared the way as they tugged to get the raft all the way to the shore. The Emperor saw the cooperation and named the ram as the eighth animal, the ninth was the monkey and the rooster became the tenth animal to be named to the zodiac cycle.

Because the dog was too tempted to take a bath in the cool water, he almost didn’t make it to the finish line. When he did he became the eleventh animal to be added to the cycle.

The Emperor was ready to close out the day he heard the oink of the pig. He came out in last that day as on his way to the other shore became hungry and stopped along the way for a huge feast and promptly fell asleep. When he woke up he became the 12th and final animal named to the zodiac cycle.

Rabbit stamp from Malaysia!

2011-01-26T00:06:00.000+08:00

The Year of Rabbit is just around the corner (beginning 3rd Feb!). The Rabbit is the fourth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac.

People born in the year of Rabbit (1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999) are usually kind and sweet and of course, popular people. Nobody ignores them, for they are good company and know how to make the best of themselves.

A rabbit's home is always a beautiful one cause Rabbit people are famous for their artistic sense and good taste. They are also usually well-dressed. Go check out your Rabbit friend's closet, I bet you will find many expensive and beautiful clothing there.

But even though they are popular and loved by their friends and family, rabbit people are also pessimistic. They are conservative and insecure, and that explains why most of the them don't like changes.

To mark the Year of Rabbit, Malaysia Pos issued a set of 3 lovely stamps entitled "Children's Pets" on 18th Jan 2011. These stamps feature a rabbit (of cos!), a cat and a dog, with face values of 60sen, 80sen and RM1 respectively.

Here is a lovely FDC sent by fellow blogger, Khor Kok Keong. Thanks very much!!

A lovely Swiss cover!!

2011-01-20T17:29:00.000+08:00

Sharing with you today is a lovely Swiss cover. Many thanks to Vural Oguz!

On 28th Nov 2008, Swiss Post released two special stamps devoted to Concrete Art. One of the stamps can be seen on this cover (right corner). The term "concrete art" was first introduced by Theo van Doesburg in his "Manifesto of Concrete Art" (1930). In his understanding, this form of abstractionism must be free of any symbolical association with reality, arguing that lines and colors are concrete by themselves.

In support of Pro Patria's work, Swiss Post issued a set of 4 stamps titled "Historical monuments of Switzerland" to raise funds.
Released on 10th May 2005, the stamps feature Rotach houses, Zurich (CHF0.85+0.40) which is the middle stamp on the cover, Monte Carasso Abbey, TI (CHF 0.85+0.40), St. Katharinental Abbey, Diessenhofen TG (CHF1.00+0.50) & Palais Wilson, Geneva (CHF1.00+0.50).
To make up for the postage, Vural used an ATM stamp (5c) which is part of a series of four stamps, devoted to different postal transport means. Issued on 20th Sept 2001, each of these four stamps includes one of the letters of the word "Post", the letter "S" is shown here.

Also worthy of mention are the lovely postmarks from Geuensee, with the St. Wendelin Chapel, on 13rd January 2011.

This cover took just 6 days to reach Singapore.

My first cover from Luxembourg!

2011-01-19T23:53:00.001+08:00

Many great thanks to Arturo Sparapano for offering my first cover from Luxembourg! The stamp on the right shows Grand Duchess Charlotte (1896-1985) and the second one features the present Grand Duke Henry.

Today Luxembourg is the only remaining grand duchy. It has been a grand duchy since 1815 when the Netherlands became an independent kingdom and Luxembourg was handed over to the King of the Netherlands, William I. Luxembourg remained in personal union with the Netherlands crown until 1890 when William III, King of the Netherlands and Grand Duke of Luxembourg, died without leaving a male heir, so that in the Netherlands he was succeeded by his daughter Wilhelmina and, in the Luxembourgish Grand Duchy, by a distant male cousin, Duke Adolf of Nassau who became HRH Grand Duke Adolphe—an arrangement necessitated by Salic law being applicable to Luxembourg but not to the Netherlands.

A bird cover from Spain!

2011-01-10T23:42:00.000+08:00

Here is a cover related to two of my interests, Philately and Aviculture (my latest hobby! :))

Many thanks to Antonio Crespo for this awesome bird cover from Spain! The stamps on this cover belong to the flora and fauna series which feature 3 common species widespread in Europe; The Great Tit, European Greenfinch and Common Kestrel.

I shall end here by sharing with you guys my pet birds. Adiós!

'Rainbow' my talking Scarlet Macaw!

'Zazu' and 'Mr Horn', Toco Toucans from South America!

Hi Everyone!!

2011-01-06T16:46:00.001+08:00

Happy New Year! How time flies! It has been 3 months since this blog was updated. I do not want to give any excuses.

During that period of time, I received tons of awesome covers! Many thanks!!
Regret that I managed to reply to them only yesterday. Thousand apologies!

The first cover that I am sharing was posted from Argentina by Cernjul Viviana. Gracias!
The beautiful set of reptiles stamps was issued in 2002. One of the stamps depicts a Red-footed tortoise, a native of South America which can be found in Argentina.

To make up for the postage, Viviana used a 50c stamp from the "Indigenous Culture" definitive series.

The second cover was sent by Devashish Ruthia from Dubai, U.A.E.! Shukran Jazilan!!

Devashish used a beautiful YOG souvenir sheet for the postage. Issued in 2010, it commemorates the inaugural Youth Olympic Games which was held in my country, Singapore.

Next, we have another awesome cover posted from France. This time from Francois Leboucher. Merci!
This cover was franked with a souvenir sheet dedicated to Charles de Gaulle, one of France most well known statemen. He was French leader during WW2 and fought against the Nazi Germany. He was elected President of France (1959-1969) and died on 9 Nov 1970.

The 4 portrait stamps belongs to the "Marianne" definitive series.

The last cover that I am sharing for today was posted from South Africa. Many thanks to D.Hazell!!

On 23 Sept 2010, South African Post offiice issued five stamps to celebrate one of South Africa's most fascinating regions, the Richtersveld.
These stamps feature the animals, birds, people and plants of the region. Costing R2,40 each, the postage for a standard domestic letter.

That's all for today! Talk to you guys soon. Bye!

A lovely Swiss cover!

2010-10-04T21:27:00.000+08:00

Received another wonderful cover from Geuensee, Switzerland! Many thanks to Vural Oguz!

The stamp franked on the left of cover belongs to a set of "Special" stamps issued in 1987 to commemorate a number of occasions.

The stamps in this set depict the "50th Anniversary of Mobile Post Office", "150th Anniversary of Swiss Engineers' and Architects' Association", "Bimillenary of Thermal Springs in Baden", "450th Anniversary of Lausanne University" and "Geneva Airport Rail Link".

And the stamp on the right was issued on 3rd Sept 2010 to mark the "50th Anniversary of European Free Trade Association (EFTA)".

The European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is a free trade organisation between four European countries that operates parallel to, and is linked to, the European Union (EU).
EFTA was established on 3 May 1960 as a trade bloc-alternative for European states who were either unable to, or chose not to, join the then-European Economic Community (EEC) which has now become the European Union (EU). The Stockholm Convention, establishing EFTA, was signed on 4 January 1960 in Stockholm by seven countries.

Today, only Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein remain members of EFTA (of which Norway and Switzerland are the only remaining founding members). The Stockholm Convention was subsequently replaced by the Vaduz Convention. This Convention provides for the liberalisation of trade among the member states.

Kenya's Ceremonial Costumes Cover!

2010-09-29T18:17:00.000+08:00

Just a short post on this busy wednesday to share with you an awesome Kenya cover received from Bhavin R.Gada. Thanks bro!

The lovely set of stamps franked on this cover belongs to the "Ceremonial costumes" series, issued in 2007.

It was postmarked on 23th Sept 2010 in Kenya and reached me on 29th Sept 2010 after traveling for about 7,661kms!

4 Lovely covers!!!!

2010-09-27T18:16:00.000+08:00

Another nice surprise! This time from Cuba! In fact it is only my second cover from this Caribbean nation! A great thanks, Pablo!!

The stamps used on this cover belong to the 2008 "Cuba-Iran Joint Issue". The stamps feature a Ramsar site in each country, with the Ramsar Convention logo and the two countries’ national flags as the centre-piece. Featured are the Cienaga de Zapata Ramsar site in Cuba and the Anzali wetlands Ramsar site in Iran. The Iranian version of the stamp has the same images but with different wording.

Such a pity that these stamps were not postmarked. However an unclear postmark can be seen on the reverse side (this proves that the cover actually went through the postage system :))

In addition, Pablo enclosed a set of tiger stamps, issued in 2010 to commemorate the Year of the Tiger!

Although, Thailand is only 157km away from Singapore, it is rarely do I receive a cover from our ASEAN friend. Hence, I was extremely happy to receive one last week!

Terdsak Tublom used stamps from the "Bicentenary of the Demise of King Rama I of the Royal House of Chakri" series, issued on 06th April 2010. Thank you very much!

Rama I (20 March 1736 – 7 September 1809) was the founder and the first monarch of the reigning House of Chakri of Siam (now Thailand). He ascended the throne in 1782, after defeating a rebellion which had deposed King Taksin of Thonburi. He was also celebrated as the founder of Rattanakosin (now Bangkok) as the new capital of the reunited kingdom.
Rama I was born in the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, and had served King Taksin in wars against the Burmese Konbaung dynasty and helped him in the reunification of Siam. During this time he emerged as Siam's most powerful military leader. In 1782, he took control of Siam and crowned himself as the monarch.

The next 2 South African covers sent by D.Hazell show Train stamps from the "150th Anniversary of Railway" series (a continuation of his previous cover). Thank you so much!

An awesome cover from Mongolia!

2010-09-22T19:30:00.000+08:00

Extremely excited to receive this awesome cover from fellow ICCC member, Dashdondov J! Thank you very much! It is my second Mongolian cover!

The portrait stamp franked on the front of cover was issued in 2007 to commemorate the 780th Death Anniversary of Genghis Khan.

Genghis Khan (1162–1227) was the founder, Khan (ruler) and Khagan (emperor) of the Mongol Empire, which became the largest contiguous empire in history after his death.

He came to power by uniting many of the nomadic tribes of northeast Asia. After founding the Mongol Empire and being proclaimed "Genghis Khan", he started the Mongol invasions that would ultimately result in the conquest of most of Eurasia. These included raids or invasions of the Kara-Khitan Khanate, Caucasus, Khwarezmid Empire, Western Xia and Jin dynasties. These campaigns were often accompanied by wholesale massacres of the civilian populations - especially in Khwarezmia. By the end of his life, the Mongol Empire occupied a substantial portion of Central Asia and China.

Back of the cover shows stamps from the "Swans" series. They were issued in 1987.

This cover was posted from Ulan Bator or Ulaanbaatar, the capital and largest city of Mongolia on 10th Sept 2010 and took 11 days to reach me!

My first cover from Aruba!

2010-09-21T20:55:00.005+08:00

Many thanks to Rodel Evangelista for this great gift from Aruba! It is my first cover posted to me from this Caribbean island!

Located just 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela, Aruba enjoys a premium location outside the hurricane belt. Tons of beaches line Aruba’s coastline, ranging from the surfer’s beach to the family beach to the private romantic beaches hidden away from the crowds. The attractions extend far beyond the beaches. There are the coves of Andicuri and Dos Playa. The calm of the Conchi, or natural pool on the windward coast. Restaurants ranging from seafood to Oriental and lots of great places to shop – outlets, collector’s shops specialty and antiques shops boutiques – and many more.

Awesome isn't it? I am sure Rodel must have enjoyed this wonderful trip. The pair of triangular stamps franked on the top right corner belongs to the "Flower" series. They were issued in 2008.
We also have a Blue-and-yellow Macaw stamp from the "Parrots" series. Such a pity that the stamp was torn. Issued this year, the other stamps in this set depict a Yellow-shouldered Amazon and Scarlet Macaws.

4 Covers to share!

2010-09-15T19:55:00.001+08:00

Hey guys! Four lovely covers to share today!

An awesome set of 10 commemorative stamps was released on 25th June 2010 to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the 1st passenger train to be hauled in South Africa.

Once again, many thanks to D.Hazell for another great cover bearing 3 of these stamps.

The first stamp from the left shows 1860 “Natal” – the first locomotive to run in South Africa. The middle is 1948 Class 24 – the ultimate power on branch lines all over South Africa. And the corner right stamp depicts 1954 Class 25 Condensor. These 90 engines – the largest non-articulated steam locomotives in the world – were designed to re-use their water and savings up to 85% were recorded. No other country employed condensing engines on a scale as large as this.

Next is a beautiful cover from the Philippines, sent by John Paul B.Rodriguee (a new friend of this blog!) Thank you so much!

This cover bears a set of stamp from the "Deep Sea Lobsters of the Philippines" series. Issued on 30th Sept 2009, they show Northwest Reef Lobster, Two Spot Locust Lobster, Locust Lobster and Blind Lobster respectively.
The 2 identical stamps on the extreme left belong to the 2010 "Marine Life" series. They depict the Yellow Seahorse.

The third cover was sent by fellow ICCC member, Yves Lapointe from Canada. Thank you!

This awesome cover was franked with stamps from the "Endangered Species" series. To raise awareness about endangered species, Canada Post issued three sets of stamps featuring Canadian creatures at risk of extinction from 2006-2008.

According to the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC), there are more than 500 plant and animal species currently at risk in Canada. The homes of our wildlife are withering away at an alarming pace due to human activities like development, deforestation and pollution.

The last cover for the day was sent from the State of Qatar by Rodel P.Evangelista. Thank you!

The stamps belong to the "FIFA World Cup" series, issued in 2002.

The 2002 FIFA World Cup was the 17th staging of the FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by South Korea and Japan from 31 May to 30 June.
It was also the first World Cup held in Asia, and the last in which the golden goal rule was implemented. Brazil won the tournament for a record fifth time, beating Germany 2–0 in the final. Turkey beat Korea Republic 3–2 in the third place match.

Queen's Baton Relay Cover!

2010-09-02T22:54:00.000+08:00

Many thanks to fellow blogger, Jeevan Jyoti for this wonderful First Day Cover commemorating the launch of the Queen's Baton Relay on 25 June 2010!

The Queen's Baton Relay, similar to the Olympic Torch Relay, is a relay around the world held prior to the beginning of the Commonwealth Games. The Baton carries a message from the Head of the Commonwealth, currently Queen Elizabeth II. The Relay traditionally begins at Buckingham Palace in London as a part of the city's Commonwealth Day festivities. The Queen entrusts the baton to the first relay runner. At the Opening Ceremony of the Games, the final relay runner hands the baton back to the Queen or her representative, who reads the message aloud to officially open the Games.

The baton contained 71 lights on the front, representing the 71 member nations of the Commonwealth Games Federation. A video camera built into the front of the baton recorded continuously as the baton travelled, and a GPS tracker was fitted, so that the baton's location could be viewed live on the Commonwealth Games Website.
The 2010 Queen's Baton was built from Aluminium, Gold with a 18 Carat gold leaf carrying the Queen's message.(Wikipedia.org)

Thief junks valuable stamps

2010-08-31T12:34:00.003+08:00

Saw this interesting article so I thought I would share with you...

(Singapore Straits Time, 05 August 2010): Sorting his loot after a burglarly, Matthew Ong Joo Wah kept the S$180,000 (US$132,714) in cash and foreign currencies, the two Rolex watches worth a total S$11,000 (US$8,184), and threw away four albums containing old China stamps, which he thought was worthless.

Only after he was arrested about two weeks later, did he learn that the stamps were valued at S$100,000 (US$73,730). By then, they could not be found.

The 30-year old pleaded guilty to three counts of housebreaking on Thursday. As he had several previous convictions for theft and cheating, District Judge Sarjit Singh called for corrective training and preventive detention reports. Such longer and tougher detention is meant for seasoned offenders.

The court heard that at 12pm on 11 March 2010, Ong noticed that an apartment at Le Meritt condominium in Telok Kurau appeared unoccupied. He sneaked in after forcing open the balcony's sliding doors.

Finding a safe in a bedroom, he wrapped it in a blanket and carried to his car. After he forced the safe open, he kept the money, the watches but disposed off the stamp albums at the rubbish collection point.

Ong then went to Resorts World Sentosa (RWS), where he sold the watches to an illegal secondhand dealer and gambled some of the money away. The next day, he flew off to Vietnam with his Vietnamese girlfriend. There he gave her S$6,000.

He was arrested at the Causeway checkpoint upon his return on 26 March 2010. Cash amounting to S$113,400 (US$83,609) was recovered from him.

Ong also admitted to breaking into two other homes and stealing a total of S$17,000 (US$12,534) in cash and S$25,000 (US$18,428) worth of jewellery and watches. He sold off the stolen items and then gambled away the money at RWS.

Semi-postal cover from Turkey!

2010-08-31T00:01:00.001+08:00

Recently, Turkish Post issued a lovely set of semi-postal stamps featuring two different types of locomotives. Great thanks to our fellow philatelist cum artist friend, Ahmet Demir for sending me this great cover franked with both stamps!

Ahmet also used 5 semi-postal stamps from the 1973 "Export Products" series on the back of cover. It is a pity that they are not postmarked!

What is a semi-postal Stamp?
A semi-postal stamp is a postal stamp issued to raise money for some purpose (such as a charitable cause) and thus sold over and above the cost of postage. Typically the stamp shows two denominations separated by a plus sign, but in many cases the only denomination shown is for the postage rate, and the postal customer simply pays the higher price when purchasing the stamps.

History of semi-postals
The first semi-postal was actually a postal card; to commemorate the Uniform Penny Post in 1890, the United Kingdom issued a card with a face value of one penny, but sold it for sixpence, with the difference given to a fund for postal workers.

The first semi-postal stamps were issued by the Australian colonies of New South Wales and Victoria, who both marked the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1897 with stamps denominated in pennies, but sold for shillings, a 12x increase over the face value!

2 Neat Slovak Covers!

2010-08-30T00:29:00.002+08:00

Received these 2 neat covers from Slovakia. Once again many thanks to Robert Brnka!

The first cover shows stamps from the "Seven Saints" series, issued on 27 Sept 2010.

The second cover features stamps from the "Sights of our Homeland" series. Issued on 18 June 2010, they depict Castle Betliar and Castle of Topoľčianky respectively.

The extreme right stamp is pre-printed inscribed "T2 50 g", which corresponds to the postage for a second class letter up to 50 grammes in the domestic service.

AWESOME aren't they?

Many covers to share!

2010-08-29T04:44:00.000+08:00

Trust you guys are well! Here I have many awesome covers to share!

My first cover from Venezuela! Many thanks to Jesus Moret Y Ferrer! The lovely stamps are from the "Bicentennial Independence of Venezuela" series, issued in 2009.

Next is a wonderful cover posted from Vancouver, Canada! Courtesy of Kang Wei Xie! The set of 4 beautiful stamps belongs to the "Roadside Attractions" series, issued on 05th July 2010.

Once again many thanks to Koh Kok Keong for yet another beautiful FDC from Malaysia! Released on 31 July 2010, the cover features stamps from the "Grand Knight of Valour" series.
A lovely cover posted from USA! This time from Buck Creek, Indiana. Thank you very much, Tim Schenpp! Yes, I would send you a cover from Singapore soon!
Posted on 02 August 2010 in Bursa, Turkey, this gorgeous cover bears stamps from the "Railway Station Buildings" and "World Environment Day" series. They were issued on 15 October 2008 and 05 June 2008 respectively. Many thanks to Baris Yakar!
Last but not least is an awesome cover posted from Gujarat, India! Great thanks to Shrikant Modh! The stamps belong to the "XIX Commonwealth Games" series.

The Games are scheduled to be held in Delhi, India between 3 October and 14 October 2010. It will be the first time that the Commonwealth Games is going to be held in India and the second time the event has been held in Asia (after 1998 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia). That's all folks! Have a great weekend!

Latest Youth Olympic Games Stamps!

2010-08-13T00:28:00.000+08:00

The first-ever Youth Olympic Games will be held in Singapore which starts from 14 to 26 August 2010 (Beginning tomorrow!). Young athletics aged between 14 and 18 years, will complete in 26 sports and take part in a culture and education programme.

To celebrate this special event, Singpost is releasing another set of four beautiful stamps (This is the third stamp issue timed to commemorate the start of the inaugural YOG!).

The stamps come in a set of four designs featuring Singapore YOG mascots, Lyo and Merly.

The first two designs highlight the World Culture Village and Island Adventure formats of CEP. Athletes will learn diverse cultures, teamwork and leadership through these two activities. The other two designs show Lyo and Merly engaging in the sports of swimming and basketball. Lovely!

The stamps are valued at 1st local (S$0.26), S$0.65, S$1.10 and S$2.00 respectively. (1 Singapore dollar equals about US$0.73)

I will be using these stamps on my next covers to my friends. Hopes they will help to spread the Olympic spirit in a fun way!

Talk to you guys again soon. Bye!

Many covers to share!!!

2010-07-19T18:22:00.001+08:00

Hello! It has been a long while since my last posting. Thousands apologies for taking so long to write! Am very busy with my new house.

I received many wonderful covers during this short absence. So today I would try to squeeze in as many covers as possible. Enjoy!

The first cover was sent from Doha, State of Qatar. Many thanks to Evangelista! The two lovely stamps are from the "Capital of Arab Culture - al QUDS" series, issued on 03 August 2009 and "FIFA World Cup" series, issued in 2002.

Pos Malaysia always issues beautiful stamp sets and here are 2 examples. Courtesy of Khor Kok Keong. Thank you very much bro!

The 2 FDCs are from the "Malayan Railways" series and "Garden flower" definitives series. They were issued on 22 June 2010 and 01 July 2010 respectively.

Next is an awesome FDC sent by fellow ICCC member, Ihar Nemkevich from Belarus! He realised that I collect topical stamps of tortoises and turtles and took the effort to send me one (Reptiles of Belarus series, issued in 2003). A great "Thank you" should you happen to read this blog.

To make up for postage, Ihar used stamps from the "World Expo 2010 Shanghai China" series and 2008 Definitive "Gardens Flowers" series.

Another awesome cover! This time from Croatia! Many thanks to Josip Mikolcic!

The lovely stamps franked on the cover are from the 2010 "Croatian Fruits" series (top row), depicting Woodland Strawberry, Gooseberry & Grape, and also a stamp from the "Croatian Ethnographic Heritage" series, showing textiles from the Dubrovacko primorje culture. Beautiful!

Next, we have 2 covers posted from Hong Kong. Thank you once again to Brian Kam!

The United Nations declared 2010 the International Year of Biodiversity to promote the awareness of ecological balance. In response to this meaningful endeavour, Hongkong Post dedicated her latest stamps edition to living creatures inhabiting Hong Kong with a set of 4 lovely stamps displaying images of species endemic to Hong Kong.

The second cover bears one of the stamps from the "Characteristic Streets of Hong Kong" series, issued on 24 June 2010.

Hong Kong, a dynamic metropolis in every sense, is also a place brimming with unique local culture. This series features six characteristic streets in Hong Kong (namely Pottinger Street, Nathan Road, Hollywood Road, Temple Street, Des Voeux Road West and Stanley Market) to highlight the fascinating confluence of old and new, East and West in this city.

This neat Slovak cover features stamps from the "Milan Hodza" series and "Europa 2010 - Children's Books" series. Great thanks to Robert Brnka!

Milan Hodža (1878-1944) was a prominent Slovak politician and journalist, serving from 1935 to 1938 as the Prime Minister of Czechoslovakia and in December 1935 as the acting President of Czechoslovakia. As a proponent of regional integration, he was famous for his attempts to establish a democratic federation of Central European states.

Also many thanks to D.Hazell for another 2 gorgeous covers posted from South Africa! They feature stamps from the 2004 issued "Spiders" series, a 2005 miniature sheet commemorating the "Freedom Charter" and 1993 "Animals" Definitives.

Last but not least, we have 3 awesome Turkish covers from fellow philatelist cum artist, Ahmet Demir. He simply loves to mix Philately with his beautiful drawings! I always enjoy receiving his covers. Aren't they cool?

An awesome cover from Argentina!

2010-06-27T00:54:00.000+08:00

Here I have another World Cup cover. This time from Argentina! Courtesy of Cernjul Viviana! Thank you very much!

Back

On 5th June 2010, Correo Argentino issued an awesome set of 4 stamps and 4 souvenir sheets to commemorate Argentina's appearance in the FIFA 2010 World Cup being held in South Africa.

The 4 lovely stamps depict Group B stage teams of Greece, Nigeria, South Korea and Argentina, herself.

And the 4 souvenir sheets feature Goal keeper, defender, midfielder and striker. FYI, the Maradona-led Argentina tops Group B, easily defeated Nigeria (1:0), South Korea (4:1) and Greece (2:0). They will face Mexico in the last sixteen on June 27.

Slovakia's FIFA World Cup cover

2010-06-25T23:23:00.000+08:00

On 8th June 2010, Slovak Post celebrated its country's first finals appearance at the FIFA World Cup 2010 by issuing a moving image stamp of a footballer striking a ball.

Considered an outsider, facing Paraguay, New Zealand and Italy in Group F, Slovokia pulled off a major surprise at the World Cup on Thursday, beating defending champion Italy 3-2 and unexpectedly advancing to the round of 16. Congratulation Slovakia!!

Being a soccer fan, it is always exciting to see underdogs creating upsets in major tournaments.

Being a Philatelist cum soccer fan, it is always fantastic to receive a football theme cover. Moreover, this is the first cover addressed to my new house. Thanks very much Robert Brnka!

Buenos Aires City Symphony Cover

2010-06-20T22:17:00.000+08:00

Many thanks to fellow blogger, Cernjul Viviana for yet another lovely cover from Buenos Aires, Argentina!

The stamps on the cover were issued on 24th April 2010 to mark the "100th Anniversary of the Buenos Aires City Symphony".

To make up for the postage, Viviana used a pair of $2 stamps from the "Indigenous Culture" definitive series on the back of the cover.

2 Wonderful covers from South Africa!!

2010-06-19T22:55:00.000+08:00

Once again, many thanks to D.Hazell for sending me another 2 wonderful covers from South Africa! The first cover was franked with a lovely minature sheet from the "Preserve the Polar Regions and Glaciers" series, issued in 2009. South Africa is one of many countries to issue stamps to mark the International Polar Year 2007-2009. You can read more on the International Polar Year stamp issues in my earlier post.

The South African Post Office will host philatelists from around the world at the Joburg 2010 International Stamp Show being held from Oct. 27 to 31. It is the first international stamp exhibition to be hosted by South Africa since 1998.

One of the highlights of the stamp show will include a unique Court of Honour, featuring a selection of the Queen Elizabeth II collection. The queen has given personal approval for the collection to be displayed.

Here on the second cover, you can see a lovely minature sheet issued by South African post to commemorate this special event.

That's all folks! I am now going to catch the FIFA World Cup match between Ghana and Australia live from South Africa! Bye!

"Know 10 Trees" covers from Singapore!

2010-06-14T23:35:00.001+08:00

Finally! Managed to squeeze some time out to prepare some covers (15 altogether!) to be sent out tomorrow and also to write this blog.

On 26th May 2010, Singpost released a stamp issue "Know 10 Trees" depicting ten trees aimed at raising the public's awareness of Singapore's most common roadside trees.

In Singapore, trees can be found along highways, in parks, neighbours and gardens. Without them, the city would be a harsh concrete landscape.

Let's hope that their receivers will like the covers as much as I do.

BTW I have just moved house and my new mailing address is stated above.
Bye for now!

Another awesome cover from Kenya!

2010-05-31T17:46:00.000+08:00

Sharing with you today is an awesome registered cover received from Kenya! Courtesy of Bhavin R.Gada! Thank you very much!!

The 2 vertical row of stamps franked on the extreme right belong to the "7th Bird Definitive", issued in 1993. The stamps depict the Red-and-yellow Barbet.

This bird usually lives in groups that include one breeding pair, several young "helpers", and sometimes one or two other adults. Red-and-yellow Barbets can be very aggressive, notably when defending their territories from other groups of barbets or woodpeckers. They are also known to mob hawks or other predators to chase them out of the territory. They are often seen around termite mounds.

The other stamps on the cover are from the "8th Crop Definitive", issued on 28th Feb 2001.

In additional, Bhavin also sent me a gorgeous Turtles FDC, issued on 13th April 2000! Thank you once again!

3 covers to share!!!

2010-05-27T00:07:00.001+08:00

Wanted to share with you guys the many beautiful covers that I received recently. However, because of my busy work schedule, by the end of the day, I am too tired to post. But I promise to do it soon.

Starting from today are 3 awesome covers received from Croatia, Qatar and Great Britain respectively.

The first cover was posted from Lukac, Croatia by Josip Mikolcic. Thank you so much! This cover was franked with stamps from the 2009 "Croatian Modern Painting" series, entitled "Grey Sail" by Zlatko Prica, "XXI Winter Olympic Games, Vancouver 2010" series and "Famous Croats" series, depicting Petar Segedin, issued on 22 April 2009.

The second lovely cover was posted from Doha, Qatar. Thanks again, Rodel Evangelista! The 2 stamps belong to the "FIFA World Cup Espana 1982" series and "Population and Housing Census" series, issued in 2010.

FYI, the tournament was won by Italy, after beating West Germany 3–1 in the final. According to the statistics released by Qatar Statistics Authority (QSA), the population of Qatar stands at 1.5million.

Last but not least, is a gorgeous cover posted from London, UK by Eric Bruth when he was attending the Festival of Stamps 2 weeks ago. Thank you very much! The stamps feature Sperm Whale and Haedgehog from the "Mammals, Action for species 4" series, issued on 13 April 2010. You can read more on his visit here.

That's all for now! Oh yes, I promise to return mails soonest. Bye!

World's most expensive stamp sold in Geneva

2010-05-24T16:47:00.006+08:00

Read this interesting article so I thought I would share with you guys here...

GENEVA, 24th May 2010: The world's most expensive postage stamp, a one-of-its-kind issue printed in Sweden in 1857, was sold at auction in Geneva to an international consortium Saturday, auctioneers said.

One of the rarest known stamps, the "Treskilling Yellow" -- or three-shilling stamp -- was issued by mistake during a print run of eight-skilling stamps, which are yellow. The three-skilling was normally green. A Swedish schoolboy stumbled upon it in 1885 while rummaging for stamps to sell on for pocket money. Since then it has passed through the hands of a series of stamp collectors, as well a German aristocrat and a Belgian tycoon.

The last time it was sold, in 1996, it fetched 2.875 million Swiss francs (US$4.5 million) at an auction.

Stamp auctioneers David Feldman did not disclose the identity of the buyers, nor the price paid this time round.

They did say however that the stamp remained the world's most expensive.

"The consortium members bought the stamp after deeming that it was a solid investment in these times of crisis," they added in a statement. - AFP/fa

Awesome Canadian cover!

2010-05-22T02:43:00.000+08:00

Once again many thanks to Laura Termes for another awesome cover posted from Canada!

Knowing that I love stamps of tortoises and turtles, Laura specially used a Leatherback turtle stamp from the "Endangered Species" series. (Greatly appreciated!) Issued on 1st Oct 2007, the other stamps in this set feature North Atlantic Right Whale, Northern Cricket Frog & White Sturgeon Fish.

Next, we have 3 lovely stamps to commemorate the International Philatelic Youth Exhibition held in the largest city in Canada, Toronto between the 20th and 24th of May 1982. This was the first time that the Youth Exhibition was held outside Europe.

The stamp on the bottom left belongs to the "Postal Code" series, issued in 1979.

Canada’s postal code system consists of a six-character string that helps form part of the postal address system in Canada. This differs from the United States whose ZIP code system consists only of numbers, while Canada’s postal codes are currently alphanumeric in nature. You can easily identify a Canadian postal code by its structure. A Canadian postal code is always in the following format where A is a letter, and the N represents a digit – ANA NAN. The space between the third and fourth characters is deliberate and is part of the postal code system.

The Canadian postal code system was first conceived in 1970. The City of Ottawa Ontario served as the test city in 1971, and by 1974 was in use across Canada. Statistics Canada says there are roughly 850,000 different postal codes in use in Canada.

This system was a giant leap from Canada’s first mail delivery service. Back in 1693, Pedro da Silva was commissioned to deliver mail between the Canadian cities of Montreal and Quebec City. Under the direction of the British Government, full postal services with an official seal began in 1775, and continued until 1851. Canada’s first postage stamp also went into circulation that the same time.

Lastly, as discussed before, the 1 cents portrait stamp features King George VI of the United Kingdom. It belongs to the KGVI definitive series, issued in 1950.

This cover was postmarked on 6th May 2010 in Qualicum Beach, British Columbia, Canada and reached me on 13th May 2010, having traveled 12,756kms!

That's all folks! Enjoy ur weekends!

An awesome Turkish cover!

2010-05-18T23:02:00.000+08:00

Just a short posting on this tiring day. Many thanks to Levent Baldgan for this awesome cover posted from Istanbul, Turkey!

The beautiful stamp belongs to the "Railway Station Buildings" series, issued on 15th Oct 2008.

This cover brought back those beautiful holiday memories...

Firefly covers from Malaysia!!

2010-05-17T22:16:00.000+08:00

Many thanks to fellow blogger, Khor Kok Keong for these covers entitled "Firefly" posted from his hometown, Ipoh, Malaysia!

On 10th May 2010, Pos Malaysia released a beautiful set of 4 stamps and a miniature sheet on various fireflies of Malaysia. The stamps depicts Pteroptyx bearni (30 sen), Pteroptyx valida (30 sen), Lychnuris sp. (50 sen) & Diaphanes sp. (50 sen).

A RM5 miniature sheet with a holographic foil printing in golden yellow, featuring Pteroptyx tener makes up a complete set.

Lovely French cover!

2010-05-13T23:20:00.001+08:00

Here is an awesome registered cover posted by Francois Leboucher from Pornichet, France! Merci beaucoup my friend!

The row of 5 portrait stamps belongs to the "Marianne" definitive series, issued in 2008.

Next is a lovely miniature sheet from the 2010 "Jardin des Plantes, Paris" series. The Jardin des Plantes is the main botanical garden in France. It is situated in the 5ème arrondissement, Paris, on the left bank of the river Seine and covers 28 hectares (280,000 m²).

This cover was postmarked on 5th May 2010, which means that it took only 6 days to reach me!

A lovely cover from Portland, USA!

2010-05-07T18:56:00.000+08:00

Here's a lovely American cover posted from Portland, USA by an eBayer.

The block of 4 stamps belongs to the 1982 "American Architecture" series. From left to right, top to bottom, they depict famous American architectures: Falling water in Pennsylvania, Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, Massachusetts' Gropius House and Washington Dulles International Airport. 1. Fallingwater, also known as the Edgar J. Kaufmann Sr. Residence, is a house designed by American architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1934 in rural southwestern Pennsylvania, 50 miles southeast of Pittsburgh. The house was built partly over a waterfall in Bear Run at Rural Route 1 in the Mill Run section of Stewart Township, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, in the Laurel Highlands of the Allegheny Mountains.

Hailed by Time magazine shortly after its completion as Wright's "most beautiful job,"it is also listed among Smithsonian magazine's Life List of 28 places "to visit before ...it's too late." Fallingwater was featured in Bob Vila's A&E Network production, Guide to Historic Homes of America. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966. In 1991, members of the American Institute of Architects named the house the "best all-time work of American architecture" and in 2007, it was ranked twenty-ninth on the list of America's Favorite Architecture according to the AIA.

2. Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), commonly called Illinois Tech, is a private Ph.D.-granting university located in Chicago. The campus, roughly bounded between 31st and 35th streets, Michigan Avenue and the Dan Ryan Expressway, was designed by modernist architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, "one of the great figures of 20th-century architecture".

3. The Gropius House was the family residence of noted architect Walter Gropius at 68 Baker Bridge Road, Lincoln, Massachusetts.

The house caused a sensation when built. Every aspect of the house and its surrounding landscape was planned for maximum efficiency and simplicity. Gropius carefully sited the house to complement its New England habitat on a rise within an orchard of 90 apple trees.
Set amid fields, forests, and farmhouses, the Gropius House mixes up the traditional materials of New England architecture (wood, brick, and fieldstone) with industrial materials such as glass block, acoustical plaster, and chrome banisters. The house structure consists of a traditional New England post and beam wooden frame, sheathed with white painted tongue and grove vertical siding. Traditional clapboards are used in the interior foyer, but are applied vertically. Striking as it is, the house was built with economy in mind, and total construction costs were $18,000.

4. Washington Dulles International Airport is a public airport located 40 km west of the central business district of Washington, D.C., in Dulles, Virginia. It serves the greater Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. The airport is named after John Foster Dulles, United States Secretary of State under Dwight D. Eisenhower. The Dulles main terminal is a well-known landmark designed by Eero Saarinen.

Lastly, we have a lovely stamp from the "American Revolution Bicentenary. Contributors to the Cause" series, issued in 1975. This stamp shows Peter Francisco carrying cannon.

Peter Francisco (1760 – 1831), known variously as the "Virginia Giant" or the "Giant of the Revolution", was an American patriot and soldier in the American Revolution. George Washington once said that Francisco's prowess directly enabled American victories in two battles, and went on to state the war might have even been lost without Francisco's participation.

Another 3 stamps featuring Sybil Ludington on Horseback (8c), Salem Poor loading musket (10c) and Haym Salomon writing in ledger (10c) make up a set.That's all folks! Enjoy ur weekend!

2 awesome ICCC covers!!

2010-05-05T21:50:00.000+08:00

Recently, received 2 awesome covers from ICCC, a cover circuit club based in Switzerland.

The first cover was posted from Geuensee, Switzerland. Many thanks to Vural Oguz!!

The beautiful stamp franked on the left belongs to the "Women's Army Corp" series. It was issued in 1965. The other stamps on the cover were issued on 04th March 2010 to mark the Centenary of Aviation in Switzerland.This second gorgeous cover was posted from Doral, Florida, USA. Many thanks to Eduardo Sudnicki!!

The 2 Cowboy stamps, entitled "Cowboys of the Silver Screen" were issued on 17th April 2010 to honour four extraordinary performers who helped make the American Western a popular form of entertainment. Film stars from the silent era through the singing era are featured on the stamps; (L-R, Top-Bottom) Roy Rogers, Tom Mix, William S. Hart & Gene Autry.

Next is a stamp from the "American Design" definitive series. That's all folks! See you guys again soon!

A nice set of stamps from Kenya!

2010-05-04T17:47:00.002+08:00

On 20th April, I blogged on a stamped postcard (A very nice surprise from KENYA!) and requested any information on the stamp franked . Today, I received a cover with a complete set of stamps from the same series! Thanks very much for your help, Bhavin!

Enjoy the stamps!

An Expo 2010 cover from Hong Kong!

2010-05-04T00:24:00.001+08:00

Expo 2010 Shanghai China (中国2010年上海世界博览会) is being held on both banks of the Huangpu River in the city of Shanghai, China, from May 1 to October 31, 2010. It is a World Expo in the tradition of international fairs and expositions. The theme of the exposition is "Better City – Better Life" and signifies Shanghai's new status in the 21st century as the "next great world city".

The expo Logo features the Chinese character 世 ('world') modified to represent three people together with the 2010 date. It is the most expensive Expo in the history of the world's fairs. The Shanghai World Expo is also the largest World's Fair site ever at 5.28 square km.

189 of the world's 196 nations will be represented at Expo 2010, either in stand-alone pavilions or within larger pavilions. Singapore, my country also has its own pavilion; a two-story music-box-like structure with an "Urban Symphony" theme.

The theme is inspired by the harmony of unique elements in Singapore: progress and sustainability, urbanization and greenery, tradition and modernity and a cosmopolitan mix of residents of different races living peacefully together.

To commemorate Hong Kong's Participation in Expo 2010 Shanghai China, Hong Kong Post issued a set of 4 beautiful stamps on 27th April 2010.

Many thanks to Brian Kam for sending me this lovely cover franked with an Expo 2010 stamp (top right) and Expo 2010 postmarks.

The bottom left stamp belongs to the 2006 Birds Definitive series.

An awesome British cover!

2010-04-28T18:24:00.000+08:00

Hey there! Sorry for the slow updates. I am quite busy as I have just started a new job... only managed to squeeze a little bit of time for this posting.

Here I have a lovely cover posted by an eBayer from the United Kingdom. Awesome!

The yellow stamp was issued on 10th April 1990 to commemorate the "25th Anniversary of the Queen's Award for Export and Technology".

Queen's Award for Export and Technology is an awards programme for British businesses and other organizations who excel at international trade, innovation or sustainable development. They are the highest official UK awards for British businesses.

Next we have 2 beautiful stamps to mark the "150th Anniversary of the Kew Gardens". They were issued on 05th June 1990.

Lastly are 2 cute rabbit stamps from the "150th Anniversary of Royal Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals" series.

Issued on 23th Jan 1990, this set of stamps features Kitten (20p), Rabbit (29p), Duckling (34p) & Puppy (37p).

That's all folks! Talk to you soon!

An amazing Canadian cover!

2010-04-25T00:59:00.010+08:00

Many thanks to Laura Termes for this amazing cover posted from Qualicum Beach, British Columbia, Canada! I’m particularly thrilled by this cover because it contains a turtle stamp. It's a pity that the turtle's head was defaced with a postmark.
The stamp depicts a Trionyx spiniferus or Spiny Softshell Turtle, one of the largest freshwater turtle species in North America. Issued in 1979, this stamp belongs to the "Endangered Wildlife Series".

On the bottom left, the 2 cents portrait stamp features King George VI of the United Kingdom. It belongs to the KGVI definitive series, issued in 1950.
The other 3 stamp were issued in 1978 to commemorate the Canadian International Philatelic Exhibition (CAPEX - 1978). Another 30 cents denomination stamp makes up a set.