Europa: 70th Anniversary

Description

2026 marks the 70th anniversary of the EUROPA stamp programme, a long standing tradition that Guernsey Post has taken part in for 50 years. Issued annually, Guernsey’s EUROPA stamps interpret shared themes through subjects connected to the Bailiwick’s heritage, people and environment, creating a distinctive collecting series within the wider European programme.

Among the most notable milestones are the commemorative ten year issues, which traces Guernsey’s journey across the years. Released on 29 May 1976, the Handicrafts stamp issue celebrated traditional skills and craftsmanship within the islands with a set of two designs: a traditional copper Milk Can and a silver Christening Cup. A decade later, on 22 May 1986, Nature & Environment Protection stamps highlighted the importance of conservation and the natural world with a set of three illustrated designs - a Northern Gannet and nylon net, a Whitsun Orchid, and a Guernsey Elm.

On 21 May 1996, the Famous Women stamp issue recognised influential female figures and their achievements. Stamps were released on 20 May 2006 for the theme Integration: Students’ Gap Year Travels, and brought a more contemporary theme reflecting learning, travel and international connections.

Environmental awareness returned on 6 May 2016 with Think Green and stamps highlighting environmental sustainability and the contrast between a green (clean) and a polluted environment. The 1 April 2026 release continues the story with the 70th Anniversary of the EUROPA Stamp: United in… theme, to commemorate seven decades of EUROPA stamps. Guernsey’s interpretation of this theme - “United in the Love of Stamps – celebrates the shared passion of collectors and postal administrations.

Over several decades, Guernsey’s Europa stamps have formed a miniature illustrative record of changing themes and design styles, while remaining part of a familiar annual programme enjoyed by philatelists across the globe.

Guernsey Post is delighted to celebrate this anniversary and hopes the stamps will continue to be enjoyed and preserved by collectors for many years to come.

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