The Philatelic Service is a specialized postal service that deals with the collection, study, and sale of postage stamps and other related materials. It is a popular hobby among stamp collectors and enthusiasts, and it has been around for centuries. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Philatelic Service in Jamaica, its history, and some of its most important and well-known stamps and designs.
Overview of the Philatelic Service in Jamaica
The Philatelic Service in Jamaica is operated by the Jamaica Post Philatelic Bureau, which is responsible for the production, distribution, and sale of postage stamps and other philatelic products. The Bureau was established in 1969 and is located in the capital city of Kingston. It is the only authorized entity in Jamaica to issue postage stamps and other philatelic products.
The Philatelic Bureau offers a wide range of services to stamp collectors and enthusiasts, including the sale of new and commemorative stamps, first-day covers, and other philatelic products. It also provides a subscription service for collectors who wish to receive new stamps on a regular basis. The Bureau also organizes stamp exhibitions and events to promote the hobby and educate the public about the history and significance of postage stamps.
History of the Philatelic Service in Jamaica
The history of the Philatelic Service in Jamaica dates back to 1858 when the first postage stamps were issued by the British colonial government. These stamps featured the profile of Queen Victoria and were used for postage within the island. In 1860, Jamaica joined the Universal Postal Union, which standardized the design and size of postage stamps worldwide.
Over the years, Jamaica has issued a variety of stamps, including definitive, commemorative, and special issue stamps. These stamps feature a wide range of themes, such as historical events, famous personalities, flora and fauna, and cultural traditions. The designs of these stamps are a reflection of Jamaica’s rich history and diverse culture.
Notable Stamps and Designs from Jamaica Post ltd
One of the most famous stamps issued by Jamaica is the «Black Princess» stamp, which was issued in 1860. It is the first stamp in the world to feature a black person and is highly sought after by collectors. Another notable stamp is the «Jamaica Independence» stamp, issued in 1962 to commemorate the country’s independence from British rule. This stamp features the Jamaican flag and is a symbol of national pride.
In recent years, the Philatelic Bureau has issued stamps that celebrate Jamaica’s achievements in sports, music, and culture. These stamps feature iconic figures such as Usain Bolt, Bob Marley, and Marcus Garvey, and showcase the country’s contributions to the world.
The Philatelic Service in Jamaica plays an important role in preserving the country’s history and culture through the production and distribution of postage stamps. It is a popular hobby among collectors and enthusiasts, and the Philatelic Bureau continues to innovate and create new and exciting stamps for its customers.
To learn more about the Philatelic Service in Jamaica and its products, visit the Jamaica Post Philatelic Bureau website at https://www.jamaicapost.gov.jm/philatelic-bureau.