05 February 2024
|
Guernsey have celebrated the Chinese New Year of the Dragon with a new issue of 6 stamps.
The Year of the Dragon 2024 Stamps
The new stamps have been deisnged by Chrissy Lau and show various depictions of a traditional Chinese dragon. These include the Lucky No.8 Dragon (GY Letter), an 88 Dragon (UK Large Letter) and a Lucky Lantern Dragon (UK Letter). In Chinese and Asian cultures, the dragon is a great symbol of power and the number 8 is lucky.
Above: The Year of the Dragon 2024 stamps show various depictions of a traditional Chinese dragon
Guernsey Stamps have released stamps celebrating Chinese New Year since 2014, with the Year of the Horse. Collectors wanting to add the Year of the Dragon stamps to their Chinese New Year Collection can purchase the stamps from Guernsey Stamps, with a set of 6 available for £7.51. Other items available in this issue include a Souvenir Sheet, Presentation Pack and a Year of the Dragon Souvenir Sheet Gold Replica. The gold foil souvenir sheet is produced in 24 carat gold and mounted inside an acrylic display stand. The sheet is limited to 100 copies and comes numbered and with a certificate of authenticity.
Related article: Year of the Tiger
Above: The new stamps have been designed by Chrissy Lau
About Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year (or Spring Festival) focusses on removing the old and bad and welcoming in the new and the good.
Related article: Year of the Ox
Above: Collectors can also purchase a 24 carat gold souvenir sheet replica which has a limited run of 100
In the run up to the new year, people thoroughly clean their homes before decorating them with red lanterns. A number of celebrations also take place during this time including dragon dance, fireworks, temple flairs and flower market shopping. Food and drink also play a big part in the festivities. Families often come together to have a New Year’s Eve dinner, known as Nian Ye Fan. The food customs and favourite dishes vary dependant on region, some popular dishes chosen for Nian Ye Fan include dumplings and fish.
Related article: Guernsey Stamps: Year of the Rat 2020