por 
The Philatelic Service of the Democratic Republic of Congo, also known as the Office des Postes et Télécommunications de la République Démocratique du Congo Philatélie, is responsible for the production and distribution of postage stamps in the country. It is a division of the national postal service and is dedicated to promoting the rich history and culture of the DRC through its stamp designs.
History of the Philatelic Service of the Democratic Republic of Congo:
The Philatelic Service of the DRC was established in 1960, following the country’s independence from Belgium. The first stamps issued by the service featured images of the country’s new flag and its first president, Joseph Kasavubu. Since then, the service has continued to produce stamps that showcase the country’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
One of the most significant moments in the history of the Philatelic Service was the release of the first Congolese stamp in 1886. This stamp, known as the «Leopold II» stamp, featured the portrait of King Leopold II of Belgium and was used in the Congo Free State, which was under Belgian rule at the time. This stamp is now considered a rare and valuable collector’s item.
Important and Famous Stamps from Philatelic Service of the Democratic Republic of Congo:
The Philatelic Service of the DRC has produced numerous stamps that have gained recognition and popularity among collectors worldwide. One of the most famous stamps is the «Congo Masks» series, which was issued in 1960 and featured traditional Congolese masks. These stamps are not only visually striking but also represent the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Another notable stamp is the «Gorilla» series, which was issued in 1978 and featured the endangered mountain gorillas of the Virunga National Park. This series brought attention to the conservation efforts in the DRC and helped raise funds for the protection of these magnificent creatures.
In recent years, the Philatelic Service has also released stamps that commemorate important events and personalities in the country’s history. For example, in 2010, a stamp was issued to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence, featuring the national flag and the map of the DRC.
Designs of the Stamps of Philatelic Service of the Democratic Republic of Congo:
The stamps produced by the Philatelic Service of the DRC are known for their vibrant colors, intricate designs, and high-quality printing. The service works with local and international artists to create unique and eye-catching designs that represent the country’s diverse culture and natural beauty.
The stamps also often feature important landmarks, such as the Congo River, the Virunga Mountains, and the Okapi Wildlife Reserve. These designs not only showcase the country’s stunning landscapes but also promote tourism and raise awareness about the need for conservation.
In addition to traditional postage stamps, the Philatelic Service also produces commemorative stamps, first-day covers, and other collectible items for philatelists and stamp enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Philatelic Service of the Democratic Republic of Congo plays a crucial role in promoting the country’s history, culture, and natural beauty through its stamp designs. With its rich history and diverse range of stamps, the service continues to attract collectors and stamp enthusiasts from around the world.
Link to the Philatelic Service of the DRC: https://www.opc.cd/philatelie/
