International postal tribute to remarkable monarch

International postal tribute to remarkable monarch

New Zealand Post has joined with the postal service of one of the Commonwealth’s oldest members – the British Channel island of Jersey - to create a special stamp in honour of the Queen’s 80th birthday.

Featuring photos of the Queen taken by acclaimed British photographer Julian Calder, the joint New Zealand Post-Jersey Post stamp issue recognises the remarkable impact that the Queen has had on her country, and the important role she plays on the world stage.

New Zealand Post Stamps General Manager Ivor Masters said “New Zealand Post is delighted to join with a fellow Commonwealth country to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, who will become an octogenarian on April 21 this year.

“These beautiful stamps will make a unique keepsake for a truly happy occasion. We expect them to be very popular with those interested in the Royal Family as well as with stamp collectors,” Mr Masters said.

The issue includes a five-pound stamp from Jersey Post, a $5 stamp from New Zealand Post, a miniature sheet and a first day cover. Each of the stamps is surrounded by a foil border of 99 percent pure silver.

Given the special occasion for this issue New Zealand Post has individually numbered the first 5,000 four-stamp sheets to be issued.

The commemorative stamps and related products will be available from New Zealand Post retail outlets – PostShops and Books & More stores, regional Stamps Centres, selected retailers, the Wanganui Stamps Centre and the stamps website, www.nzpost.co.nz/stamps from the 21 April 2006.

ENDS

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