Hong Kong - France Joint Issue Stamps on Art

Stamp Name:Hong Kong - France Joint Issue on Art.

Details:

Hongkong Post and France are jointly issuing a set of four stamps on art to showcase vintage paintings and contemporary sculptures from Hong Kong and France, reflecting their rich heritage in art.

The two paintings, both works from the 19th century, employ a similar colour scheme with realistic rendering and artists' materials originating from the West, while the two sculptures, created in the 20th century, were both inspired by animals. This marks the 12th joint stamp issue between Hongkong Post and other postal administrations. The stamp issue demonstrates the great passion for art that Hong Kong and France share and showcases the cultural treasures of the two places.

170th Anniversary of Hong Kong Postal Service FDC from HONGKONG

FDC Name:170th Anniversary of Hong Kong Postal Service

Issue date:25th AUG'2011

Details:

The first post office in Hong Kong was opened on 25 August 1841, heralding the beginning of the local postal service. In response to subsequent socio-economic developments, our postal service has moved with the times, ever expanding and innovating to meet public demand. The year 2011 marks the 170th anniversary of postal services in Hong Kong. Hongkong Post issues a stamp sheetlet to commemorate the occasion.

Established in 1841, we are one of the oldest government departments in Hong Kong. For more than a century and a half, we have carried on the fine tradition of providing an efficient and reliable postal service at a reasonable price, earning recognition both at home and abroad. In 1995, we converted to a trading fund operation. We have succeeded in building a good corporate image by promoting a quality service culture, living up to our purpose statement of "Linking People, Delivering Business".

The stamp sheetlet is divided into three parts. The buildings on the left and in the middle depict the old General Post Office set up in 1911 and the current General Post Office opened since 1976 respectively, with a shift of colour in the background from brownish red to light green, to echo the old red and new green posting boxes in the foreground, suggesting the passage of time. On the right, the globe surrounded by service brands of Hongkong Post and the "hummingbird" logo symbolises innovation and improvement in our service delivery to the world. The red Victorian Pillar-type posting box with the longest history (cast between 1837 and 1901) on the stamp is juxtaposed with its green modern version. The superimposed postmarks of 1841 and 2011 serve as a reminder of the 170 years of postal service in Hong Kong.

Looking ahead, Hongkong Post will keep abreast of the times and continue to develop an array of diversified products and services for the public and corporate clients. We will strive to play an active role in facilitating global communication and in promoting industrial and business activities to create new business opportunities.(Source-Hongkong Post)

Remark:Thanks Trudy Yuen for sending such a nice miniature sheet FDC.It is really great to know the postal history of Hongkong which way back to 1841.

2011-Children Stamps - Chinese Idioms and Their Stories Cover from HONGKONG

FDC Name:Children Stamps - Chinese Idioms and Their Stories
Issue Date:18th JUNE 2011
Details:

Chinese idioms are set phrases which have evolved over thousands of years of use. They are succinct and expressive, vivid and figurative. Often originating from fables, literature and historical facts or personages, their stories are full of references and the wisdom of the ages. Hongkong Post’s first issue of Chinese idioms stamps was received eagerly by philately enthusiasts and the general public in 2006. The second set is now released in the form of Children Stamps, intending to stimulate the younger generation’s interest in Chinese culture and philately with colorful and lively pictures on five idioms and their stories.

The set of stamps is themed on five Chinese idioms.

$1.40 - Mutual help in hard times
This idiom originates from Zhuangzi (369 - 286 BC),  the famous Daoist philosopher born in the ancient China. It literally means that when the spring water dries up, the fishes stranded on land moisten each other with their saliva. The idiom is now used to describe people coming to each other’s assistance during difficult times.

$1.80 - Water drops wear away rocks
According to the observation of a scholar of the Song Dynasty (960 - 1279 AD), water drops, small and soft as they may be, can hollow out hard rock over time. The idiom carries the message that perseverance and determination breed success.

$2.40 - Practice makes perfect
Dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907 AD) , this idiom refers to the repetitive heating and hammering during the iron forging process, alluding to the polishing of a piece of writing in the most meticulous manner in the quest for perfection. It is also used to describe one’s experience of numerous trials and challenges.

$3 - Save to give
This idiom originates from an article in the Tang Dynasty. It advises that governing officials should economize on resources so that more can be given back to the people for a better life.

$5 - As deft as a master butcher
Zhuangzi described in this story how a butcher used his superb skills to cut up an ox effortlessly for Lord Wenhui. It illustrates the fact that with constant practice and thorough knowledge, one can deal with everything with ease

Remark:Thanks Trudy Yuen for sending this cover with one stamps with  first day cancellation.I would love to have all the five stamps on official first day cover.Thanks

Green Living FDC from HONGKONG

FDC Name:Green Living
Issue Date:14th APR'2011

Details:

To improve Hong Kong’s environment and to protect our home planet, going green is the only answer. In fact, with a little thought to energy conservation and emission reduction, we can all do our part to build a better future for generations to come. Hongkong Post issues a set of four stamps to promote the concept of "Green Living". In refreshing and uplifting colours, the set features a tender green shoot to highlight the four major elements in a green lifestyle. The blue planet is cleverly worked into the design to symbolize the close relationship between human life and global ecology, calling on people to treasure precious resources and Mother Earth.

$1.40 - Conserve Water
We must use our scarce and precious fresh water responsibly - not wasting, but conserving and reusing every drop. To this end, we can save water by not turning the tap on too far, taking showers instead of baths, reusing the water from washing vegetables and fruits to water plants, and doing much more.

$2.40 - Clean Air
Air pollution is a worrying problem that needs to be confronted. To improve air quality, we must make every small green change in our daily lives that will help support greening. For example, we can use public transport where possible, choose Eco-friendly cars and switch off idling engines.

$3 - Save Energy
Over-consumption of energy in households contributes to environmental pollution and increasing energy shortage. There are plenty of smart ways to conserve energy. We can turn on lighting only when needed, switch to energy-saving light bulbs, keep doors and windows shut when air-conditioning is on, and use energy-efficient ways of cooking such as steaming and stir-frying.

$5 - Recycle
Hong Kong has to deal with a large volume of rubbish every day, which adds to the pressure on landfills. To help solve the issue, we must make efforts to reduce waste at source and recycle for reuse, for example, proper use of waste separation facilities to facilitate recycling and taking recyclable items to recyclers.

The leaf-shaped design of the stamp sheetlet, the first of its kind issued by Hongkong Post, echoes with the theme of green living and conveys the message of cherishing the Earth.

In line with the theme, the stamps and stamp sheetlet are printed on FSC^TM-certified paper, distinguished by the use of raw materials and production processes that meet stringent forest certification standards(Source-HongKong Post)

Remark:Thanks Trudy for sending this FDC with a single stamps on Recycle.A FDC is not complete unless it has all the 4 set of stamps on it.This is a very good issue from Hongkong Post..The design of the cancellation is also good.

"Twelve Animals of the Lunar New Year Cycle" Stamp Sheetlet FDC from HONG KONG

FDC Name:"Twelve Animals of the Lunar New Year Cycle" Stamp Sheetlet

Issue Date:22nd JAN'2011

Details:

This sheetlet brings a merry convergence of the twelve auspicious animals with a festive golden tone and Chinese red paper cutting motif that foretell a prosperous year ahead. 

Remark:Thanks T.C.Tsang for sending such a big FDC with the Sheetlet by registered post on the issue date,It is really on of the finest very big FDC for me.I am a TIGER collector & one of the stamps form the twelve Animals is Tiger.Thanks again.

2011-Year of Rabbit FDC from HONG KONG

FDC Name:Year of Rabbit
Issue Date:22nd JAN'2011

Details:

This is the twelfth Lunar New Year special stamp issue in the third series released by Hongkong Post. The first and second sets of special stamps for the Year of the Rabbit were issued in 1975 and 1987 respectively.

Lunar New Year is the most important Chinese festivity that follows a 12-year Chinese Zodiac cycle. In traditional Chinese culture, the Rabbit is a symbol of agility and acuity. People born in the Year of the Rabbit are said to be gentle, kind and quick-witted.

The four stamps, in denominations of $1.40, $2.40, $3.00 and $5.00, vividly portray four different breeds of cuddly rabbits. Five-colour printing is used to capture the gradation of light and shade, highlighting the adorable rabbits against a background of silver foliage.

The First Day Cover design aptly combines paper-cutting with computer aided drawing. The paper-cut pattern lends a note of festivity, and the lively rabbit in the foreground heralds the Year of the Rabbit
(Source-world stamps news)
Remark:Nice FDC with beautiful special cancellation.Thanks.T.C.Tsang for sending such beautiful complete set of stamps on FDC by registered post.Hong Kong Post do not allow the special cancellation on FDC which are sent by registered post where as most of the other postal authorities allow the special cancellation on the first day.

Year of Rabbit FDC affixed with an Imperforated Stamp Sheetlet from HONG KONG

FDC Name:Year of Rabbit
Issue Date:22nd JAN'2011

Details:

This is the twelfth Lunar New Year special stamp issue in the third series released by Hongkong Post. The first and second sets of special stamps for the Year of the Rabbit were issued in 1975 and 1987 respectively.

Lunar New Year is the most important Chinese festivity that follows a 12-year Chinese Zodiac cycle. In traditional Chinese culture, the Rabbit is a symbol of agility and acuity. People born in the Year of the Rabbit are said to be gentle, kind and quick-witted.

The four stamps, in denominations of $1.40, $2.40, $3.00 and $5.00, vividly portray four different breeds of cuddly rabbits. Five-colour printing is used to capture the gradation of light and shade, highlighting the adorable rabbits against a background of silver foliage.

The First Day Cover design aptly combines paper-cutting with computer aided drawing. The paper-cut pattern lends a note of festivity, and the lively rabbit in the foreground heralds the Year of the Rabbit
(Source-world stamps news)
Remark:Nice FDC with beautiful special cancellation.Thanks.T.C.Tsang for sending such beautiful sheet let FDC.

Biodiversity FDC from HONG KONG

FDC Name:Biodiversity
Issue date:15th JULY 2010.

Details:

The United Nations declared 2010 the International Year of Biodiversity, calling on the international community to join hands in protecting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. Hong Kong is blessed with a diversity of natural habitats.The United Nations has proclaimed 2010 as the International Year of Biodiversity and encouraged people around the globe to devote greater attention to safeguarding wildlife and preserving ecological balance.Inspired by the amazing variety of local flora and fauna, Hongkong Post presents a set of four special stamps featuring endemic species including the Hong Kong paradise fish (the only freshwater fish named after the territory), Romer's tree frog (the smallest frog species found in Hong Kong), Sinopora hongkongensis (a plant first discovered in Tai Mo Shan which is new to science) and Fukienogomphus choifongae (a dragonfly first discovered in Wu Kau Tang which is also new to science).
Remark:Nice registered post FDC posted by my friend from Hong Kong,Excellent stamps on Biodiversity,I like these beautiful stamps.Thanks.

Characteristic Streets in Hong Kong FDC from HONG KONG

FDC Name:Characteristic Streets in Hong Kong

Issue Date: 24th JUN'2010

Details:As a melting pot where east meets west and tradition blends with modernity, Hong Kong has many streets of individual character. Hongkong Post has specially selected 6 distinctive ones to constitute a set of 6 stamps. These snapshots give a sense of nostalgia to Hong Kong people. 

Remark:Beautiful real post FDC by registered post from Hong Kong,Many thanks to my friend Chun.

LONDON 2010 International Philatelic Exhibition FDC from HONG KONG

FDC Name:LONDON 2010 International Philatelic Exhibition

Issue Date: 8th MAY 2010.

Details:A special stamp sheetlet was issued on 8 May 2010 (Saturday) to commemorate Hongkong Post’s participation in London 2010 International Philatelic Exhibition held at the Business Design Centre in London, United Kingdom, from 8 to 15 May 2010. The stamp sheetlet is printed in red, white and blue - the colours of the Union Flag. The silhouettes of landmarks in Hong Kong and London symbolise harmonious ties between the two cities.

Under the patronage of Fédération Internationale de Philatélie (FIP), the 8-day Exhibition showcases exquisite exhibits from collectors as well as stamp dealers, auctioneers and postal administrations worldwide. Hongkong Post’s participation in this international philatelic event offers an excellent opportunity to present quality Hong Kong stamps overseas.

Remark:Excellent mini sheet(M/s) FDC posted on the issue date by my friend Tsang Tsz Chun bu registered post.Great FDC for my collection, 

Stonecutters Bridge FDC from HONG KONG

FDC Name:Stonecutters Bridge:

Issue Date:17th DEC'2009

Details:Stonecutters Bridge is a high level cable-stayed bridge which spans the Rambler Channel in Hong Kong, connecting Nam Wan Kok, Tsing Yi Island and Stonecutters Island. The bridge deck was completed on 7 April 2009, making this the second longest cable-stayed span in the world, and opened to traffic on 20 December 2009.

The approaches at Tsing Yi and Stonecutters Island are located near Container Terminal 9 and Container Terminal 8, respectively. Construction commenced on 27 April 2004 by Maeda–Hitachi–Yokogawa–Hsin Chong Joint Venture. It cost HK$2.76 billion. It was reported to be over budget.

The bridge is part of Hong Kong's Route 8, connecting Sha Tin, Cheung Sha Wan, Tsing Yi Island, Ma Wan and Lantau Island. Other major constructions along the route are Nam Wan Tunnel (completed in 2008), Eagle's Nest Tunnel (completed in 2008), Sha Tin Heights Tunnel (completed in 2008), Tsing Ma Bridge (completed in 1997) and Kap Shui Mun Bridge (completed in 1997).

As a result of the interesting challenges and extreme difficulty in constructing this bridge, the project was featured on the Discovery Channel's Extreme Engineering series in 2006.

Remark:Nice miniature sheet FDC posted on the issue date but I have posted this in my blog lately as a bunch of FDC was misplaced by me.The M/s was excellent.

Hong Kong's Participation in Expo 2010 Shanghai China FDC from HONG KONG

FDC Name:Hong Kong's Participation in Expo 2010 Shanghai China.

Issue Date:27th APR'2010

Details:A set of special stamps is issued to commemorate Hong Kong's participation in Expo 2010 Shanghai China (Shanghai Expo) under the theme "Better City, Better Life". The event will be held at the waterfront on both sides of the Huangpu River in Shanghai from 1 May to 31 October 2010. It offers a great opportunity for Hong Kong to showcase to the world its local and global connectivity, infinite creativity and extraordinary charm as an international metropolis.

Hong Kong will participate in Shanghai Expo in four areas: constructing and operating a stand-alone Hong Kong Pavilion under the theme "Hong Kong - Potential Unlimited"; taking part in the Urban Best Practices Area Exhibition under the theme "Smart Card‧Smart City‧Smart Life"; taking part in Expo Shanghai Online to provide netizens with a realistic, virtual experience of Hong Kong's participation in Shanghai Expo; and organising events and activities before and during the Expo period to promote Hong Kong's innovation and creativity in cultural and other different fields.

In a modern, stylish design, this set of four stamps features an ingenious integration of our harbour view with images of a dragon dance, a green leaf, Tsing Ma Bridge and a smart card to highlight our uniqueness as a cosmopolitan city of pluralistic culture, quality life and sustainable development. This perfectly complements the theme of Shanghai Expo.

• $1.40 - Dragon Dance

A traditional festive performance, the dragon dance is a distinct heritage of Chinese society. It is an icon of living cultural traditions in Hong Kong, a dynamic city where East meets West, and old merges with new.

• $2.40 - Green Leaf

A symbol of beautiful nature, the green leaf represents an essential element of a vibrant eco-city - the harmonious coexistence of modern architecture and natural environment.

• $3 - Tsing Ma Bridge

A magnificent landmark, this infrastructure interconnects with the Hong Kong International Airport and other major trunk roads to form an extensive transport network, securing closer links with Mainland cities and other parts of the world.

• $5 - Smart Card

An exemplary technological innovation that brings breakthroughs to our city life, the smart card testifies to our commitment to developing innovation and technology for a better future with enhanced efficiency and quality of life.

A strong sense of vitality is conveyed through the smooth and lively patterns in delightfully bright colours. The emblem of Shanghai Expo and the appearance of the Hong Kong Pavilion in the lower corners symbolise Hong Kong's participation in a spectacular event that will capture the world's imagination.

Remark:I have received 2 FDC from my two friends from Hong Kong.The 1st one with the Miniature sheet FDC with official cachet cancellation  by ordinary post while the 2nd one by my friend Tsang Tsz Chun  by registered post with date cancellation. Both the FDC are nice,Hong Kong stamps and FDC were great to collect & one of my favorite country.Many thanks to my long term friends.

Mainland Scenery "Fujian Tulou" FDC from HONK KONG

FDC name:Mainland Scenery "Fujian Tulou"

Issue Date:18th MARCH 2010

Details:Hongkong Post's Stamp Sheetlets on Mainland Scenery delight the eyes with magnificent landscapes and majestic architecture. The ninth series presents Fujian Tulou, the world's unique mega rammed earth housing structures for mountain dwellers.

A sparkling gem in Chinese culture, Fujian Tulou is known for its long history, massive scale and intricate structure. It is also known as "Hakka Tulou" as most tulou (literally meaning earthen houses) were built by the Hakka people of Fujian Province. Raw earth, the primary construction material, is mixed with sand, lime, wood strips and the like. The mixture is then rubbed, pounded and compressed. Constructed with these reinforced materials, tulou are well ventilated, naturally lit, wind sheltered and quakeproof. The baked tile roofs are exceptionally durable.

If classified by architectural styles, Fujian Tulou mainly consist of round house, square house and "Five-Phoenix" house, with rotunda being the dominant form. The ingeniously built structures sit comfortably on narrow plains in the mountains. Their sophisticated design effectively meets the needs of clan communities, providing defence and security.

Officially inscribed on the World Heritage List on 6 July 2008, Fujian Tulou comprises 46 buildings scattered in ten sites in three counties. They are the Chuxi Cluster, Hongkeng Cluster, Gaobei Cluster, Yanxiang Lou and Zhenfu Lou in Yongding County; Tianluokeng Cluster, Hekeng Cluster, Huaiyuan Lou and Hegui Lou in Nanjing County; and Dadi Cluster in Hua'an County.

The sheetlet depicts the five tulou of the Tianluokeng Cluster. The square Buyun Lou in the middle is surrounded by three rotundas, namely Hechang Lou, Ruiyun Lou and Zhenchang Lou, and the oval Wenchang Lou. The stamp features Chengqi Lou of the Gaobei Cluster, renowned as the "King of Tulou". With its imposing grandeur combined with age-old simplicity, Chengqi Lou blends in perfectly with nature, exemplifying the poetic charm of mountain living.

Remark:Nice M/s FDC from Hong Kong ,Posted on the issue date.Hong Kong M/s are excellent in design.

Hong Kong 2009 East Asian Games Minisheet FDC from Hong Kong

FDC Name:Hong Kong 2009 East Asian Games
Issue Date:5th DEC'2009
Details:This set of stamps is issued to celebrate the 5th East Asian Games held in Hong Kong from 5 to 13 December 2009. The event marks an exciting milestone in our sports history, as it is the first time Hong Kong has had the honor to host a regional multi-sport contest of this scale.

The quadrennial event debuted in China (Shanghai) in 1993, followed by Korea (Pusan) in 1997, Japan (Osaka) in 2001 and China (Macao) in 2005. Athletes from nine East Asian countries or regions meet in Hong Kong this year to compete for 262 gold medals in 22 sports. With both the number of gold medals up for grabs and the number of sports staged in the arena hitting record highs, the Games this year is the biggest ever.

The set of six stamps contains two designs for each of the three denominations, featuring all the 22 sports in the 5th East Asian Games, namely,

• Judo, Rowing and Rugby Sevens ($1.40);
• Athletics, Badminton, Wushu and Shooting ($1.40);
• Basketball, Hockey, Squash and Aquatics ($2.40);
• Cycling, Weightlifting and Tennis ($2.40);
• Windsurfing, Football, Bowling and Taekwondo ($3);
• Table Tennis, Volleyball, Dance Sport and Cue Sports ($3).
  

The silhouettes in gold, silver and bronze foil represent the three levels of medals awarded, bringing out the spirit of competition that motivates athletes to go for their best.

"Be the Legend" - Get set for the Hong Kong 2009 East Asian Games!
Remark:Nice FDC posted by my friend,It is a great mini sheet FDC,Though the stamps are colorful but in scan it is not coming.

Football (Brazil - Hong Kong Joint Issue) Minisheet FDC from Hong Kong

FDC Name:Football (Brazil - Hong Kong Joint Issue)
Issue Date:5th NOV'2009
Details:Football, a popular sport all over the globe, has long been a favourite pastime for people from all walks of life in Hong Kong. In Brazil, it is a sport played and watched with a national pride and passion that is deeply ingrained in Brazilian culture. To share with philately lovers the worldwide enthusiasm for the sport, Hongkong Post and Brazil Post jointly release the “Football” special stamps. This is our tenth joint issue with an overseas postal administration.

Professional football in Hong Kong dates back to 1968. The British style dominated at the beginning. From late 1990s onwards, however, more and more Brazilian footballers joined in, particularly the First Division clubs, bringing their unique style of play to the Hong Kong pitch. The Hong Kong Football Representative Team, which represents Hong Kong in international football tournaments, competed for the first time in World Cup qualification in 1973 and further advanced to the knockout stage in 1977 and 1985. To promote the sport locally, the Hong Kong Football Association (HKFA) organizes various programes to nurture young players. Talented footballers have the opportunity to join clubs in the HKFA leagues or represent Hong Kong in international competitions.

Football made its first touch down on Brazilian soil over a hundred years ago. It has now captured the energy and imagination of the whole nation from the streets to the leagues. Brazilian football emphasises aggressive attacks, passing skills and swift movements. What sets Brazilian football apart is its stylistic footwork with rhythm and choreography. Brazil appeared at the first World Cup in Uruguay in 1930 and hosted the World Cup in 1950. The Brazil National Football Team is considered one of the most successful national football teams in World Cup history with its record five victories in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002.

In 2005, the Brazil National Football Team made its first visit to Hong Kong to play a friendly match against the Hong Kong Football Representative Team. With top-notch players from the five-time champion team, the event was exhilarating for football fans in Hong Kong.

The joint issue depicts players in action from both the Brazil and Hong Kong teams in comic strip style. The four stamps feature

1. Header by Striker ($1.40),
   
2. Defense by Goalkeeper ($2.40),
   
3. Long Pass by Skipper ($3) and
   
4. Tackle by Defender ($5).
   

In the design, quarters of the football positioned in different corners of the stamps come together at the center to form a complete picture, symbolizing the team spirit of this popular sport.
Remark:Nice real posted FDC from my friend from Hong Kong received here on 16th NOV'2009.Thanks for the great mini sheet FDC.

60th Anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China FDC from HONGKONG

FDC Name:60th Anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China.
Issue Date:1st OCT'2009
Details:Founded on 1 October 1949, the People's Republic of China celebrates her 60th anniversary this year. Over the past 60 years, China has amazed the world with her remarkable success in development. While looking back with pride at our numerous accomplishments, all Chinese people strive for an even brighter tomorrow.
To mark this memorable moment, Hongkong Post issues a set of commemorative stamps. The set of six stamps is designed based on the winning entry of the Stamp Design Competition for the 60th Anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China jointly organised by the Home Affairs Bureau, Radio Television Hong Kong, the Committee on the Promotion of Civic Education and the Commission on Youth.

• Victoria Harbour and Tiananmen Square depicted on two interlocking cogwheels ($1.40), and the
  
• five-star national flag flying by the side of the "Forever Blooming Bauhinia" ($1.80), symbolize the intimate and inseparable bond between Hong Kong and our Motherland.
  
• The Bird's Nest ($2.40) reminds us of the country's first hosting of the Olympic Games
  
• while the successful launch of China's manned spacecraft Shenzhou-7 ($2.50) marks her rapid technological advancement and development.
  
• The Temple of Heaven against the backdrop of an illuminated globe ($3) and
  
• a golden dragon soaring above the Great Wall ($5) signify the nation's rising economic and international status.
  

The six stamps also fit into a perfect ring on the mini sheet with the accompanying number "6", bringing out the theme of the 60th anniversary.
Remark:Nice FDC with odd shape stamps set.The design of stamps are excellent. The souvenir sheet was great but my friend has sent the FDC with stamps only.

Centenary of Customs and Excise Service Souvenir Sheet FDC from HONG KONG

FDC Name:Centenary of Customs and Excise Service
Issue Date: 17th SEP'2009
Details:A set of stamps on the theme of "Centenary of Customs and Excise Service" was issued on 17 September 2009 (Thursday).

The Preventive Service was set up on 17 September 1909 under the then Imports and Exports Department and tasked with the duties of protecting and collecting revenue on liquors. It was renamed the Customs and Excise Service in 1977 and became an independent government department in 1982. The Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) is one of the major law enforcement agencies with a staff establishment of around 5,600 responsible for combating smuggling, protecting and collecting revenue on dutiable commodities, deterring narcotics trafficking and drug abuse, safeguarding intellectual property rights and consumer interests, and protecting and facilitating legitimate trade to maintain Hong Kong's trading integrity. 2009 marks the 100th anniversary of the C&ED. Hongkong Post issues a set of four stamps to commemorate this important milestone.

Using a process printing technique, monochrome photos are juxtaposed with colour images on the stamps to spotlight the past and present of the C&ED undertaking different enforcement functions.

1.$1.40	Front-line Drug Fighter
	Back in the 1960s, Preventive Service staff inspected baggage. Today, the C&ED's dog handlers team up with drug detector dogs in customs clearance and drug raids to combat narcotics trafficking and drug abuse
2.$2.40	Facilitation of Trade
	The monochrome photo shows the Sheung Shui Customs Station in 1935. In 2004, an advanced Mobile X-ray Vehicle Scanning System came into service. The use of sophisticated technology has contributed to more efficient customs clearance and enabled the C&ED to achieve trade facilitation at the same time.
3.$3	The Fight Against Smuggling
	The stamp presents a comparison over time of anti-smuggling patrols in local waters. Nowadays, the C&ED's fleet of modern patrol launches and high-speed pursuit craft intercept vessels smuggling contraband in Hong Kong.
4.$5	Law Enforcement
	The background features a photo of the Superintendent of the then Imports and Exports Department with his colleagues from the Preventive Service. Today, the C&ED is one of the primary law enforcement agencies under the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

The C&ED celebrates its centenary in 2009. The past century has witnessed the Department's significant contributions in maintaining Hong Kong's status as a free port, an international trade centre and a logistics hub in Asia.

Remark:Nice FDC with Souvenir Sheet was sent by my friend from Hongkong.Many thanks

Hartwarming FDC from HONG KONG

FDC Name:"Heartwarming"

Issue date: 25th JUNE 2009

Details:Hong Kong Post releases the fourth issue of the Heartwarming Stamps series focusing on the familiar themes of "Love and Care" and "Celebrations" to convey affection and heartfelt wishes.
The design of the new set takes after the third issue released in 2007. Interesting cultural similarities and differences are highlighted with felt applique in cheerful colours. The "Celebrations" stamps compare the exciting festivity of the Chinese lion dance with fun-filled parties in Western style. The blossoming flowers and fluttering butterflies in the "Love and Care" stamps tell us that there is warmth and romance in the air.
The Heartwarming Stamps bear a "Local Mail Postage" or "Air Mail Postage" marking instead of value indicators. The "Local Mail Postage" stamps are valid on local mail items weighing not more than 30 grams (currently valued at $1.40) and the "Air Mail Postage" stamps can be used to send airmail items weighing 20 grams or less worldwide (currently valued at $3).
The "Celebrations" and "Love and Care" Heartwarming Stamps add tidings of joy and cheer to precious moments such as birthdays, achievements, anniversaries, weddings and births.

Remark:Nice FDC by my friend from Hong Kong

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Hong Kong Museums Collection M/s FDC from HONG KONG

FDC name:Hong Kong Museums Collection.

Issue Date:16th May 2008.

Details:Hong Kong maintains a favourable cultural environment where there exists a myriad of museums with gorgeous arrays of exhibits. Hongkong Post issues this series of "Hong Kong Museums Collection" special stamps on the theme of Chinese calligraphy and painting, presenting six selected exhibits from the Hong Kong Museum of Art, the Art Museum of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Heritage Museum, and the University Museum and Art Gallery of The University of Hong Kong. With a glimpse of the calligraphic works and paintings of celebrated Chinese artists, we can admire the beauty of culture, thereby realising the importance of heritage and art conservation.The details Denominations & stamps are:

1. $1.40: Poem in Running Script -WANG Duo (1592 - 1652)/ Dated 1631/ Height 286.5 cm; Width 70.8 cm/ Xubaizhai Collection of the Hong Kong Museum of Art;
2. $1.80: Landscape after the Style of Huang Gongwang -WANG Yuanqi (1642 - 1715)/ Dated 1703/ Height 100.2 cm; Width 46.5 cm/ Xubaizhai Collection of the Hong Kong Museum of Art;
3. $2.40: Calligraphy of WANG Youjun- WANG Xizhi (303 - 361)/ A Page from Song Rubbing, Quanzhou version of Chunhua Ge Tie/ Ink rubbing on paper/ Album of 68 leaves, each leaf of 25 cm x 13.6 cm/ Donated by Bei Shan Tang/ Collection of Art Museum, The Chinese University of Hong Kong;
4. $2.50: Bird in Moonlight -GAO Qifeng (1889 - 1933)/ Dated 1910/ Hanging scroll, ink and colour on paper/ Height 110 cm; Width 27.5 cm/ Collection of the Hong Kong Heritage Museum;
5. $3: Flower and Butterfly-JU Lian (1828 - 1904)/ Geng Zi Year (1900)/ Fan, ink and colour on paper/ Height 18 cm; Width 52 cm/ Collection of the Hong Kong Heritage Museum;
6. $5: Figures in Pure Line Drawing (detail)-GU Huai (Qing dynasty)/ Handscroll, ink on paper/ Width 31 cm; Length 200 cm/ Collection of the University Museum and Art Gallery, The University of Hong Kong.

Remark:Nice real posted FDC by my friend from Hongkong.Thanks a lot.

Hongkong post's Participation in CHINA'2009 Word Stamp Exhibition FDC from HONGKONG

FDC Name:Stamp Sheetlet to commemorate Hongkong post's Participation in CHINA2009 Word Stamp Exhibition FDC fro HONGKONG.

Issue Date:7th APRIL'2009

Details: CHINA 2009 World Stamp Exhibition was held in Luoyang, Henan, China on 10-16 April 2009.A special stamp is issued on 7 April 2009 to commemorate Hongkong Post’s participation in this event.The stamp sheetlet vividly captures the artistic images of Peony and Bauhinia blakeana, the city flower of Luoyang and Hong Kong respectively. With Peony depicted in the centre of the stamp against the background of Bauhinia blakeana, it is symbolic of Hongkong Post’s enthusiastic support of CHINA 2009.

Remark:Excellent FDC with stamp,The special cancellation is very good.