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The Philatelic Service of Mayotte: A Journey Through History and Culture
The Philatelic Service of Mayotte, also known as La Poste de Mayotte Philatélie, is the official postal service of the French overseas department of Mayotte. This service is responsible for the production and distribution of postage stamps, as well as other philatelic products, that reflect the history, culture, and natural beauty of this small island in the Indian Ocean. Let’s take a closer look at this unique and fascinating service.
Overview of the Philatelic Service of Mayotte
The Philatelic Service of Mayotte was established in 1976, when the island became a French overseas department. It is a part of La Poste, the national postal service of France, and is responsible for all postal operations on the island. The service is located in the capital city of Mamoudzou and is headed by a director who oversees the production and distribution of stamps and other philatelic products.
The service offers a wide range of products, including stamps, first day covers, postcards, and other collectibles. These products are not only used for postage, but also serve as a way to promote the culture and heritage of Mayotte to the rest of the world. The Philatelic Service of Mayotte also organizes stamp exhibitions and events to showcase the beauty and diversity of the island.
History of the Philatelic Service of Mayotte
Mayotte has a rich history of philately, dating back to the late 19th century when the island was a French colony. The first stamps of Mayotte were issued in 1892 and featured the image of the French Republic’s coat of arms. Over the years, the designs of the stamps have evolved to reflect the changing political and cultural landscape of the island.
One of the most significant moments in the history of the Philatelic Service of Mayotte was the release of the first stamp of the department in 1976. This stamp, known as the «Mayotte Flag» stamp, featured the flag of Mayotte and marked the island’s transition from a French colony to an overseas department. Since then, the service has continued to release stamps that showcase the unique culture and traditions of Mayotte.
Notable Stamps and Designs from La Poste de Mayotte Philatélie
The Philatelic Service of Mayotte has released numerous stamps over the years, each with its own unique design and significance. Some of the most notable stamps include the «Mayotte Fauna and Flora» series, which features the diverse wildlife and plant species found on the island. Another popular series is the «Mayotte Traditional Costumes» stamps, which depict the colorful and vibrant traditional attire of the island’s different ethnic groups.
One of the most famous stamps of Mayotte is the «Mayotte Lighthouse» stamp, which was issued in 2012 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the first lighthouse on the island. This stamp features a stunning image of the Dzaoudzi lighthouse, a symbol of Mayotte’s maritime history and importance.
In addition to stamps, the Philatelic Service of Mayotte also offers other collectibles such as postcards and first day covers. These products often feature the same designs as the stamps and are highly sought after by collectors around the world.
In conclusion, the Philatelic Service of Mayotte is not just a postal service, but also a way to showcase the rich history and culture of this beautiful island. Through its stamps and other philatelic products, the service continues to promote Mayotte to the rest of the world.
To learn more about the Philatelic Service of Mayotte and its products, visit their website at https://www.laposte.fr/particulier/produits/philatelie/mayotte.
