Description

On 17 January 2025, UNPA celebrates the Chinese Lunar Calendar – Year of the Snake with the issuance of a special event sheet of 10 stamps. The Chinese New Year officially begins on 29 January 2025 and continues until 16 February 2026.

The ten $1.65 denominated stamps and background design show four snakes intimately embracing and coiling around each other. In Chinese culture, the circular connection of head to tail signifies endless continuity. The vibrant red color represents the exuberance and energy of life, every-renewing. The snakes’ united embrace, reminiscent of a Chinese knot and the kid folk game “Jumping the Four Directions” adds a playful touch while staying true to the times. Each snake with its unique pattern, intertwines to represent the vibrant diversity of the world’s nations, united in harmony. Using minimalistic lines, peace lilies are gently sketched, underscoring the message of unity, friendship, and peaceful coexistence.

The tabs to the left of the stamps show the United Nations logo on a gold background.

The stamps and the background design were illustrated by Chinese artist Tiger Pan, who also illustrated the United Nations Lunar Calendar series for the 2018 Year of the Dog, 2022 Year of the Tiger, 2023 Year of the Rabbit and 2024 Year of the Dragon.

UNPA will also offer a Year of the Snake postcard and a first day cover with the same design as the stamps.