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The Saint Helena Philatelic Bureau is the official postal service of the island of Saint Helena, located in the South Atlantic Ocean. This small but historic bureau is responsible for issuing and distributing postage stamps, as well as providing other philatelic services to collectors and enthusiasts around the world.
History of the Saint Helena Philatelic Bureau
The history of the Saint Helena Philatelic Bureau dates back to the 19th century, when the island was used as a stopover for ships traveling between Europe and Asia. In 1856, the first stamps were issued by the British Post Office for use on the island. These stamps featured the profile of Queen Victoria and were used until 1884.
In 1890, Saint Helena became a separate postal territory and began issuing its own stamps. Over the years, the bureau has released a variety of stamps featuring the island’s unique flora and fauna, historic events, and famous figures such as Napoleon Bonaparte, who was exiled to Saint Helena in 1815.
Notable Stamps and Designs from Saint Helena Philatelic Bureau
One of the most famous stamps issued by the Saint Helena Philatelic Bureau is the 1922 «Badge of the Order of St. John» stamp. This stamp features the emblem of the Order of St. John, a Christian organization dedicated to providing medical care and humanitarian aid. It is considered one of the most beautiful stamps in the world and is highly sought after by collectors.
Another notable stamp is the 1976 «Bicentenary of American Independence» stamp, which commemorates the 200th anniversary of the United States’ declaration of independence. This stamp features a portrait of George Washington and is a popular item among American stamp collectors.
In recent years, the Saint Helena Philatelic Bureau has also released stamps featuring the island’s unique wildlife, such as the green sea turtle and the wirebird, a rare species of plover found only on Saint Helena.
Services Offered in Saint Helena Philatelic Bureau
In addition to issuing stamps, the Saint Helena Philatelic Bureau offers a variety of services for stamp collectors and enthusiasts. These include first day covers, which are envelopes with stamps cancelled on the first day of issue, as well as stamp sets and souvenir sheets.
The bureau also offers a standing order service, where collectors can receive new stamp issues automatically as they are released. This is a convenient option for those who want to ensure they have a complete collection of Saint Helena stamps.
For those interested in learning more about the history and culture of Saint Helena, the bureau also offers a range of philatelic literature, including books and catalogues.
The Saint Helena Philatelic Bureau is a small but significant part of the island’s history and culture. Its stamps not only serve as a means of postage, but also as a way to showcase the unique aspects of Saint Helena to the world. With its rich history and diverse range of stamps and services, the bureau continues to be a popular destination for stamp collectors and enthusiasts around the globe.
To learn more about the Saint Helena Philatelic Bureau and its services, visit their website at http://www.postoffice.gov.sh/. Here, you can browse their collection of stamps, place orders, and stay updated on the latest releases and events. Happy collecting!
