It’s a small event in the world of philately. Ten years after the death of Nelson Mandela, La Poste will release on Monday a tribute stamp bearing the image of the former South African head of state, famous for his fight against apartheid. The stamp, sold at the international rate of 1.80 euro, will be published in 600,000 copies. But without waiting, the precious sticker is available in preview Friday and Saturday in Nantes and Schiltigheim. A special postal office has been set up for the occasion in both cities, as well as an exhibition.
“The first-day cancellation is particularly sought after by collectors. Nelson Mandela’s shared image is also very unifying,” explains Didier Galagain, president of the Philatelic Association. The Anchorin Nantes, “very proud” to have been chosen by La Poste to launch this commemoration.
The 30th anniversary of his Nobel Peace Prize
The portrait of “Madiba” was drawn by the Parisian street art artist C215. The green is supposed to evoke “Nelson Mandela’s love for nature”. Blocks of 15 stamps and souvenir postcards were also produced for the occasion.
Nelson Mandela died on December 5, 2013 at the age of 95. The year 2023 also marks the thirtieth anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to him jointly with Frederik De Klerk.