In the following blog post, I will introduce you to the new stamps that will be issued by Liechtensteinische Post on September 2, 2024. In addition to an introduction to the stamps and the occasions on which they will be issued, you will also find all the important details about the individual stamps here. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of philately and discover the stories behind these special issues.
100 years of the Swiss franc in the Principality of Liechtenstein
The Principality of Liechtenstein is currently celebrating a number of important anniversaries. After celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Customs Treaty with Switzerland last year, another important anniversary is coming up this year: 100 years of the Swiss franc in the Principality of Liechtenstein. The stamps issued to mark the occasion are not only a look back at the past, but also a sign of Liechtenstein’s successful economic and political development.
The road to the Swiss franc
After the First World War, Liechtenstein found itself in a precarious economic situation due to its close ties with Austria, which was also suffering badly from the aftermath of the war. In order to escape this economic misery, Liechtenstein sought new paths and increasingly oriented itself towards the economically more stable Switzerland.
The Principality of Liechtenstein also began to gradually adopt the Swiss currency, the Swiss franc. Initially, the franc was used by the population as a means of payment before the state began to set taxes and fees in Swiss francs. The issue of Liechtenstein stamps in Swiss franc denominations and, from 1922, the national accounts exclusively in Swiss francs were also significant steps in this process. The logical next step followed in April 1924, when the parliament, the Landtag, decided to formally introduce the Swiss currency. This important historical event is now being celebrated with the issue of a special stamp. On September 2, 2024, this commemorative stamp will be issued in the form of a souvenir sheet with fine gold foil embossing. In addition to the stamp, six new gold and silver coins depicting the Rhine Valley between Switzerland and Liechtenstein will be issued to mark the occasion, with the municipalities depicted on the edge. Another gold coin is depicted on the stamp.
Details of the stamp:
- Value/Motif: CHF 3.90 Helvetia
- Stamp size: 33 x 45 mm
- Perforation: 14 x 13 ¾
- Sheet size: 100 x 80 mm
- Design: Isabella Hutter, Diepoldsau
- Printing: Offset 4-color CMYK, gold foil stamping, embossing
- Printing company: Cartor Security Printing, Meaucé la Loupe
- Paper: Stamp paper PVA 110 g/m², gummed
- Print run: 17,000
- Cancel designer: Isabella Hutter, Diepoldsau
Wayside shrine in honor of Saint Barbara: A tribute in Ruggell
In Liechtenstein’s northernmost municipality of Ruggell, near the quarry, stands the impressive “Barbara Chapel”. This monument was created by Liechtenstein sculptor and master stonemason Eckhard Wollwage and commemorates Saint Barbara in the form of a small chapel. The Barbara Chapel in Balzers (in the south of Liechtenstein) was immortalized on a stamp back in 1988. Liechtenstein is now framed by the Rhine, the mountains and two Barbara wayside shrines. A safe place in the world :-).
Saint Barbara is one of the most fascinating figures in the veneration of Christian saints. Her legend, which took place in Izmit (present-day Turkey) in the 3rd century, has inspired and influenced many generations.
The legend of St. Barbara
Barbara, who lived in the 3rd century, learned about Christianity from her teachers and developed a deep conviction in her faith. However, her father, a convinced pagan, wanted to dissuade her from this faith and planned to marry her off against her will. Barbara resisted and fled from the tower in which she was imprisoned. On her escape, she was protected by rocks – which is why she is often venerated as the patron saint of miners. However, she is also regarded as the saint of the dying (FL 2005 stamp). During her escape, her robe got caught on a branch. However, her hiding place was betrayed and she was taken back to her father. Despite the most severe torture, Barbara held on to her faith and was finally beheaded by her father on December 4, 306. On this day, the branch on which her robe had been left hanging blossomed. This led to the custom of Barbara’s branches: fruit branches that are cut and placed in water on December 4, St. Barbara’s Day. If these branches blossom at Christmas (such as the branch on the Japanese stamp from 2009), this promises a happy new year.
Details of the stamp:
- Value/motif: CHF 1.00 Barbara-Kappile, Ruggell quarry
- Stamp size: 28 x 40 mm
- Perforation: 13 ¾ x 13 ¾
- Sheet size: 146 x 208 mm
- Design: Armin Hoop, Ruggell
- Printing: Offset 5-color CMYK + Pantone
- Printing company: Gutenberg AG, Schaan
- Paper: Stamp paper FSC 110 g/m², gummed
- Print run: 21,120
- Cancel designer: Armin Hoop, Rugell
CRYPTO-Fox with NFT: The future of philately
Liechtenstein is continuing its innovative blockchain series with the special “Business Fox” miniature sheet (denomination CHF 9.50) and introducing the latest crypto stamp, which is being issued for the first time with an NFT (non-fungible token). An NFT, or non-fungible token, is a unique digital certificate that proves the authenticity and ownership of a specific digital object. In the case of the “Business Fox” stamp, this means that every buyer receives a unique, non-fungible digital certificate that confirms the authenticity and ownership of the stamp. This opens up completely new opportunities for collectors and investors in the world of philately.
Maxi card – the fox in a forest full of will-o’-the-wisps
The introduction of the “Business Fox” stamp with NFT marks a significant step in the development of philately. It shows how traditional collectibles can be enhanced through the use of modern technology and brought into the digital era. For collectors and technology enthusiasts, this crypto stamp offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a new era and hold a piece of the future in their hands.
The “business fox” and its habitat
The “real” stamp / stamp block shows the “Business Fox” in its natural habitat, the forest, where it is searching for four collector’s items. This dynamic depiction not only lends the stamp aesthetic appeal, but also makes it an interactive collector’s item.
Parallel to the regular issue, a special imperforated edition limited to 1700 stamps will be published. In this special edition, the “Business Fox” moves through a winter forest. This version is presented in an elegant, handmade blue folder with silver embossing and is available at a retail price of CHF 75.00.
Details of the stamp
- Tax value/motive: CHF 9.50 Business-Fox
- Stamp size: 32 x 38 mm
- Perforation: 12 ½ x 12 ¼
- Sheet size: 100 x 110 mm
- Design: Isabella Hutter, Diepoldsau
- Printing: Offset 5-color CMYK + Pantone
- Printing company: Gutenberg AG, Schaan
- Paper: Stamp paper FSC 110 g/m², gummed
- Print run: 17,000
- Cancel designer: Isabella Hutter, Diepoldsau
Princely Treasures – Palaces and Castles III
Bereits 2022 wurde eine Briefmarke von einer Gouache von Runk mit Schloss Eisgrub veröffentlicht.
Three exquisite gouaches by the painter Ferdinand Runk are once again presented in the continuation of the series on treasures from the Princely Collections. These impressive works depict picturesque landscapes in which the majestic palaces and castles of the House of Liechtenstein are enthroned. Three further gouaches by the same painter, also with motifs of castles belonging to the House of Liechtenstein, were issued in 2022.
The ruins of Mödling Castle – a testimony to the fortifications
The ruins of Mödling Castle, depicted on the CHF 1.00 stamp, sit majestically above the Mödlingbach valley in Lower Austria. In the 19th century, this hilltop castle was one of the largest defensive structures in the region and offered strategic advantages as an observation post. The remains of this once imposing fortress tell stories of times long past and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Novyrhad Castle – a hunting lodge with history
Novyrhad Castle is nestled in the hilly landscape around Adamov (Adamsthal) in the Czech Republic. Depicted on the CHF 1.20 stamp, this castle was first mentioned in writing in 1381 and was converted into a hunting lodge by the House of Liechtenstein after several armed conflicts between 1800 and 1806. Its rich history and picturesque surroundings make it a fascinating destination.
Lednice Castle – A neo-Gothic pearl
Lednice Castle – a magnificent example of neo-Gothic architecture and depicted on the CHF 1.90 stamp – is located in South Moravia in a region that has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List due to its unique combination of indigenous and exotic natural elements with cultural monuments from different eras. The castle and the surrounding lands once belonged to the Princes of Liechtenstein, but were taken away from them after the Second World War. To this day, however, the Czech Republic and the Princely House are still fighting over this heritage in court.
Details of the stamps:
- Tax value/motif:
- Mödling Castle – CHF 1.00
- Novyrhad Castle – CHF 1.20
- Eisgrub Castle – CHF 1.90
- Stamp size: 667 x 40 mm
- Perforation: 12 ¼ x 12 ¼
- Sheet size: 146 x 208 mm
- Design: Silvia Ruppen, Mauren
- Printing: Offset 4-color + hot foil stamping gold
- Printing company: Gutenberg AG, Schaan
- Paper: Stamp paper PVA 110 g/m², gummed
- Print run: 22,500
- Cancel designer: Silvia Ruppen, MaurenT
Village views – Ruggell
The latest issue of “Village views” series is dedicated to two important historical buildings in the municipality of Ruggell. These special stamps show the rich cultural heritage and fascinating history of this charming municipality. The black and white photographs of the buildings are set against colorful, graduated backgrounds, giving the stamps a special aesthetic.
Küefer-Martis-Huus – A baroque farmhouse with history
The Küefer-Martis-Huus, immortalized on the CHF 1.00 stamp, is a rare example of baroque farmhouses in the region. Built in 1730/31, it served as a residence until 1993. In 1997, the municipality of Ruggell acquired the building and placed it under a preservation order. In 2002, it was opened as a museum, cultural and meeting center. Today, exhibitions on regional themes and various events are regularly held here. The first floor of the house has been faithfully restored and, with its old furnishings in the kitchen, offers an insight into the simple life of earlier times.
The old rectory – a testimony to traditional architecture
The old rectory, depicted on the CHF 1.20 stamp, is located on Dorfstrasse and is another jewel of the municipality of Ruggell. The wooden house was built in 1856/57 using the dovetail-galvanized knitted construction method. With its almost square floor plan and slightly projecting hipped roof, it is a striking example of the traditional architecture of the region. The building was extensively renovated and restored to its original condition in 2011/12, giving it a new lease of life.
Details of the stamps
- Tax value/motive:
- Küefer-Martis-Huus – CHF 1.00
- Old rectory – CHF 1.20
- Stamp size: 48 x 34.5 mm
- Perforation: 13 ¼ x 13 ¼
- Sheet size: 208 x 146 mm
- Design: Karin Beck-Söllner, Planken
- Printing: Offset 4-color CMYK + embossing multi-stage
- Printer company: Cartor Security Printing, Meaucé la Loupe
- Paper: Stamp paper PVA 110 g/m², gummed
- Print run: 19,620
- Cancel designer: Karin Beck-Söllner, Planken