Postage stamps from United Nations in New York

The United Nations issues its own postage stamps through the United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA). These stamps, valid for postage only at UN offices, are issued from its headquarters in New York, as well as offices in Geneva and Vienna. Here’s an overview of the postage stamps from the United Nations in New York:

Historical Background

1. Establishment of the UNPA (1951)

  • Founding: The United Nations Postal Administration was established on October 24, 1951, and issued its first stamps on that day.
  • Purpose: These stamps were created to promote the work and values of the United Nations and are used for mailing from the UN Headquarters in New York.

Notable Series and Stamps

1. First Issue (1951)

  1. “Toward United Nations” Series:
    • Designs: Featured the emblem of the United Nations and the slogan “Toward United Nations.”
    • Denominations: Included 1 cent, 1½ cents, 3 cents, 5 cents, 10 cents, and 15 cents stamps.

2. Regular Definitive Issues

  1. Emblem and Flag:
    • Designs: Various designs over the years featuring the UN emblem, flag, and headquarters building.
    • Themes: Often highlight the UN’s mission and its various departments.
  2. Thematic Issues:
    • Themes: Peacekeeping, human rights, environmental conservation, and global health.
    • Designs: Frequently feature artwork from international artists, and sometimes include text in multiple languages.

3. Commemorative Issues

  1. UN Anniversaries:
    • Designs: Special stamps released to commemorate milestones such as the UN’s 25th, 50th, and 75th anniversaries.
    • Themes: Celebrate the history and achievements of the United Nations.
  2. International Days and Years:
    • Designs: Stamps issued to mark International Days and Years designated by the UN General Assembly.
    • Examples: International Year of Peace (1986), International Year of the Child (1979), and others.

4. Special Series

  1. Endangered Species:
    • Initiated: The series began in 1993.
    • Designs: Each issue features illustrations of endangered animals from around the world.
    • Purpose: Raise awareness about biodiversity and conservation.
  2. World Heritage Sites:
    • Designs: Featuring UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
    • Themes: Highlight cultural and natural heritage sites around the globe.

5. Personalized Stamps (UN Personalized Stamp Sheets)

  1. Launch: Began in 2003.
    • Designs: Allows individuals to personalize stamps with their own photos alongside UN motifs.
    • Themes: Popular for special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries.

Collecting UN Stamps

Rarity and Value:

  • Early Issues: The first issues from 1951 are particularly notable and can be of interest to collectors.
  • Commemorative Issues: Limited edition commemoratives and thematic issues can be valuable, especially if they are in mint condition.

Thematic Collections:

  • Peace and Human Rights: Many collectors focus on stamps highlighting the UN’s work in promoting peace, security, and human rights.
  • Environmental and Health Issues: Stamps promoting environmental conservation and global health initiatives are also popular.

Philatelic Societies:

  • United Nations Philatelists, Inc. (UNP): An organization dedicated to collecting and studying UN stamps, offering resources, networking, and publications.

Obtaining Stamps:

  • UNPA Offices: Stamps can be purchased directly from the United Nations Postal Administration at its New York headquarters or via its website.
  • Philatelic Dealers: Specialized dealers often have a selection of UN stamps, including rare and commemorative issues.
  • Online Platforms: Websites like eBay, Delcampe, and other philatelic marketplaces frequently list UN stamps.
  • Stamp Shows and Expos: Events provide opportunities to buy, sell, and trade stamps, and connect with other collectors.

Example Stamps

  1. 1951 “Toward United Nations” Series:
    • Examples: Features the UN emblem and slogan.
  2. Endangered Species Series:
    • Examples: Illustrations of endangered animals issued annually since 1993.
  3. World Heritage Sites Series:
    • Examples: Featuring various UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world.
  4. Commemorative Issues:
    • Examples: Stamps celebrating the UN’s anniversaries and international observances.

Conclusion

The postage stamps from the United Nations in New York offer a rich and diverse collecting experience, reflecting the organization’s global mission and values. Whether focusing on early definitive issues, commemorative stamps celebrating international milestones, or thematic series on conservation and heritage, collectors can enjoy a meaningful journey through the philatelic history of the United Nations.