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Service: A Journey Through the History of Maldivian Stamps
The Maldives, a small island nation located in the Indian Ocean, is known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and luxurious resorts. However, what many people may not know is that the Maldives also has a rich history in the world of philately. The Maldives Post Philatelic Service, established in 1906, has been producing stamps that showcase the country’s culture, history, and natural beauty for over a century. In this article, we will take a journey through the history of the Maldivian stamps and explore some of its most important and well-known designs.
History of the Maldives Post Philatelic Service
The Maldives Post Philatelic Service was established in 1906, during the reign of Sultan Muhammad Shamsuddeen III. The first stamps issued by the service were overprinted stamps from Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) with the word «MALDIVES» in Arabic script. These stamps were used for postage within the country until 1909 when the first set of stamps specifically designed for the Maldives was issued.
Since then, the Maldives Post Philatelic Service has been continuously producing stamps that reflect the country’s history, culture, and natural beauty. The service has also collaborated with renowned stamp designers and printing companies to create unique and high-quality stamps.
Notable Stamps and Designs from Maldives Post Philatelic
The Maldives Post Philatelic Service has released numerous stamps over the years, each with its own unique design and significance. Here are some of the most notable stamps and designs from the service:
1. The First Maldivian Stamp (1909)
The first set of stamps specifically designed for the Maldives featured the portrait of Sultan Muhammad Shamsuddeen III. These stamps were printed in black and red and were used for postage within the country.
2. The First Commemorative Stamp (1953)
In 1953, the Maldives Post Philatelic Service issued its first commemorative stamp to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Universal Postal Union. The stamp featured the UPU emblem and was printed in blue and red.
3. The First Airmail Stamp (1953)
Also in 1953, the Maldives Post Philatelic Service released its first airmail stamp, featuring a seaplane flying over the Maldives. This stamp was printed in blue and red and was used for airmail postage to other countries.
4. The First Thematic Stamp (1960)
In 1960, the Maldives Post Philatelic Service issued its first thematic stamp, featuring a map of the Maldives and various sea creatures. This stamp was printed in blue and green and was part of a series of stamps showcasing the country’s marine life.
5. The First Souvenir Sheet (1965)
The first souvenir sheet issued by the Maldives Post Philatelic Service featured a set of stamps depicting the country’s traditional boats, known as dhonis. This sheet was printed in blue and red and was released to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the service.
6. The First Gold Foil Stamp (1972)
In 1972, the Maldives Post Philatelic Service released its first gold foil stamp, featuring a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. This stamp was printed in gold foil and was part of a series of stamps honoring the Queen’s Silver Jubilee.
7. The First 3D Stamp (1984)
The first 3D stamp issued by the Maldives Post Philatelic Service featured a sea turtle swimming in the ocean. This stamp was printed in 3D and was part of a series of stamps showcasing the country’s marine life.
8. The First Hologram Stamp (1990)
In 1990, the Maldives Post Philatelic Service released its first hologram stamp, featuring a map of the Maldives and various sea creatures. This stamp was printed in holographic foil and was part of a series of stamps showcasing the country’s marine life.
The Maldives Post Philatelic Service has a long and rich history in the world of philately. From its first stamps in 1906 to its innovative designs in recent years, the service has continuously produced stamps that reflect the country’s culture, history, and natural beauty. With its unique and high-quality stamps, the Maldives Post Philatelic Service has become a must-visit for stamp collectors and enthusiasts.
To learn more about the service and its stamps, visit their official website at https://www.maldivespost.com/.
