Focus on Stamps 2-2017

Unspunnen 70th Festival del film Locarno Churfirsten The ultimate traditional Swiss The smallest festival poster A magnificent panorama festival in the world

125 years of the Brienz Rothorn railway

2/2017

Focus on stamps The Collector’s Magazine

Editorial and contents © Festival del film Locarno

Dear Reader

We’re delighted to bring you the latest issue of “Focus on stamps”, which we’ve devoted to numerous anniversaries. In 2017, the Festival del film in Locarno is being held for the 70th time, the Pro

Senectute Foundation is marking 100 years of © Pro Senectute providing services for the elderly and, believe it or not, the Brienz Rothorn railway – which was the highest steam-powered rack railway in the world at the time of construction – is celebrating 125 years in operation. This year we’re also looking forward to the Unspunnen festival, which was first staged in 1805 and has been held every 12 years since 1946. This ultimate traditional Swiss festival Great cinema, magnificent panoramas and a celebration of life and takes place in Interlaken. Compared to the tradi- vitality. Some of the wide range of topics covered in this issue. tion of the Unspunnen festival, the ch Foundation with its 50 years’ experience in federal cooperation seems relatively young. Aside from all of these anniversaries, we can mar- Contents vel at the impressive panorama of the Churfirsten mountain range on the new stamps, while the Pro Patria stamps with surcharge are dedicated to Knowledge and News 4 fortresses and castles, and we’re once again en- tering the race for the most beautiful stamp in the Unspunnen 6–7 PostEurop competition. Issuing programme and events calendar 7 In Focus on stamps 4/2016, we introduced the scannable Christmas stamps. Have you had chance to try out the scan function yet? It is our 70th Festival del film Locarno 8–9 goal to make all stamps scannable in future. You can read more about this on page 5. I would like to 125 years of the Brienz Rothorn railway 10 –11 take this opportunity to thank you for your loyalty and I trust that you will enjoy browsing this latest issue of Focus on stamps. 100 years of Pro Senectute 12

Pro Patria – Fortresses and castles of Switzerland 13

Churfirsten 14–15

Europa – Castles 16–17

Roman Heini 50 years ch Foundation (for federal cooperation) 18

Swiss Post’s cultural and social commitments rely on strong networking. Swiss Post not only sees itself as a sponsor, but also seeks to create genuine added value for the projects it supports. In doing so, both the partners and society as a whole benefit.

Special stamps with surcharge Added value for everyone

Combining utility and support This issue of Focus on stamps features the By issuing special stamps with surcharge, Pro Patria stamps as well as the special Swiss Post is making an important contri- stamp with surcharge for the Pro Senec- bution to raising funds for well-estab- tute Foundation. lished foundations and projects with a cultural or social background, and in Little things can have a big impact – doing so conveys their message to the the Swiss Post postage stamp fund public at large. A certain amount of money from the A recent example of this is the stamp with sales of stamps with surcharge goes to surcharge which benefits the victims of the postage stamp fund to promote and compulsory social measures and forced support organizations and institutions The postage stamp fund is currently sup- fostering. The story of these victims is with cultural and/or social objectives. porting the following organizations and now being addressed and examined at Even seemingly small amounts can have projects: the political and economic level. By issu- a big impact. – Continuation of the humanrights.ch in- ing a special stamp with surcharge, Swiss Circus Wunderplunder is a great example formation platform Post is making an important contribution of this. It brings the wonder of the circus – Robinson children’s circus to raising awareness of this issue and en- to life for everyone. Here, anyone can be- – Limita – Centre for the prevention of couraging discussion. All additional in- come an artist. Circus Wunderplunder sexual exploitation of mentally handi- come from these special stamps will be doesn’t have a fixed circus programme. capped young people channelled into the emergency aid fund Every week is unique. There is no pressure – Swiss Music Archives – collection and for those affected. to perform and no insistence on early ar- research of Swiss pop culture tistic development. The focus here is on people – of any age – and their desire to Kurt Strässle have their day as a circus performer. But what’s a circus without a big top? More information on the postage stamp Thanks to the generous support of the fund can be found at postage stamp fund for cultural and social https://www.post.ch/en/about-us/ commitment, Wunderplunder was able company/responsibility/commit- to purchase a desperately needed new ment-and-promotion circus tent and thus ensure the continuation of more than 30 years of Circus Wun- derplunder history.

4 Stamps are becoming interactive

The Christmas stamps were just the start. With the Swiss Post app, you can now scan all stamps from issue 1/17 and find out some fascinating additional information.

These days, there’s more to stamps than meets the eye. If you have downloaded the Swiss Post app to your smartphone, you can now scan your stamps. This in- novative function provides additional information on each individual stamp. For instance, users can find out more about the stamp theme, be entertained by moving images and enter a competition.

1. Download the free Swiss Post app to your smartphone (from the App store for iOS, via Google Play for Android).

2. Open the app and select the “Scan code/images” function.

Video instructions: 3. Hold the camera over the image and the scan will begin automatically.

Swiss Post’s General Terms and Conditions Publisher’s details of Business concerning the purchase of stamps and philatelic items form an integral "Focus on stamps” is a free Author: Jürg Freudiger part of individual orders and are tacitly magazine published in Eng- accepted by each customer who sends an lish, German, French and Total print run order. Italian. English: 100,000 copies These Terms and Conditions can be ordered by swisspost.ch/focusonstamps telephone (+41 [0]848 66 55 44) or by e-mail Customer service ([email protected]). They are also available at Published by j Telephone: +41 848 66 55 44 swisspost.ch/gtc-phila. Post CH Ltd j Fax: +41 58 667 62 68 Post Offices & Sales j E-mail: [email protected] "Focus on stamps” No. 2/2017 Stamps and Philately Copy deadline: 23.2.2017 Wankdorfallee 4 j Website: postshop.ch/focus- 3030 Berne on-stamps-online Distribution: from 30.3.2017 Switzerland j Shop: postshop.ch Stamp issues: 11.5.2017

5 Special stamp Unspunnen

The ultimate traditional Swiss festival The Swiss festival of Unspunnen is a traditional celebration of Swiss mountain life and was first held in 1805. However, it only became a regular event in 1946 and has since taken place every 12 years. 2017 is one of the lucky years.

The Unspunnen Swiss wrestling event will take 100 days to the festival place on 26-27 August and will be followed by the The first issue of the “Unspunnen” special stamp will be released exactly main festival on 1-3 September. Spectators can look 100 days before the start of the Unspunnen festival. Swiss Post and forward to seeing farmers in traditional Swiss cos- the Unspunnen festival committee will be marking the occasion in style tume, stone throwing, target shooting and the tradi- on 11 May 2017 in Welle7 in Berne. You too can be there when the stamp tional Swiss sport of Hornussen, Alphorn players and is personally presented by the CEO of Swiss Post, Susanne Ruoff! flag bearers, folk musicians, choristers, dancers in One of the highlights will be a live performance of Trauffer’s Unspunnen traditional Swiss costume, yodellers and much more song by a school choir with Barbara Klossner (Miss Helvetia). besides. The anniversary stamp, which was suggested by the Win exclusive VIP tickets to the event “100 days to the festival”. festival committee, combines the wealth of Swiss 20 “Focus on stamps readers” have the unique opportunity to experience traditions in one image. this event as a VIP guest. Alongside media representatives from all over On Saturday, 2 September 2017, a special post office Switzerland, you will receive exclusive information about the Unspunnen will be set up at the festival site in Interlaken. A spe- festival and enjoy a buffet before the stamp is revealed to a wider audi- cial cancellation is also being designed to mark the ence. event. Designer Mansing Tang from Wabern will be on site to sign autographs. An event souvenir includ- For more information on the event and how to participate, go to ing a special stamp selection is also planned. postshop.ch/focus-on-stamps-online

6 Special stamp Unspunnen • Issuing programme and events calendar

Order using the enclosed order Unspunnen form or at postshop.ch CHF 1.00

Sheet Single stamp Block of four of 20 stamps Unstamped A158 150 w A158 160 w A158 111 w cover C6 Key A158 550 ( A158 560 ( A158 511 ( A158 700 w = mint CHF 1.00 CHF 4.00 CHF 20.00 CHF 0.90 ( = cancelled

Block of four Folder/collection sheet Single stamp on first day cover C6 on first day cover C6 A158 640 w A158 580 ( only CHF 1.90 A158 630 ( only CHF 4.90 A158 650 ( CHF 1.80

Sales Paper Philately: From 4.5.2017 to 30.6.2018, White stamp paper with optical while stocks last brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm² Post offices: From 11.5.2017, while stocks last Perforation Validity 13¼:13½ Unlimited from 11.5.2017 Design Printing Mansing Tang, Wabern Offset, 4-colour; Cartor Security Printing La Loupe, France First day cover motif Sizes Stamp: 33 × 28 mm Sheetlet: 194 × 140 mm (4 rows of 5 stamps) First day cancellation

Issuing programme

Date of issue: 7 September 2017 • Featured in: Focus on stamps 3/2017 dated 28 July 2017

No. Value Description No. Value Description No. Value Description No. Value Description

2 2.00 Special stamps 4 5.60 Definitive stamps 1 1.00 Miniature sheet 3 4.50 Special stamps Emoji Swiss railway stations Typical Swiss Postcrossing 1.00 Sunglasses 1.10 Appenzell countryside – Creux du Van 1.00 Costumes group 1.00 Group 1.30 Zug 1.50 Cow 1.40 Interlaken Ost 1 0.85 Miniature sheet 2.00 Alphorn player 1 1.00 Special stamp 1.80 Scuol-Tarasp 150 years of Tübli letters Letter vs. e-mail – Selfie 2 2.00 Special stamps 1 2.00 Miniature sheet 500 years Bern Cathe- Quince scent Subject to change. You can always find the dral vaulted ceiling latest version at www.swisspost.ch/stamps. 1.00 Vaulted ceiling Version: February 2017 1.00 Statue Events calendar Key Month Key Date Town Occasion I Issue date for stamps/postal May I 11.5 Issue date stationery F Focus on Stamps (stamps F/E 11–13.5 Essen 27th International Stamp Fair magazine) July F 28.7 Focus on stamps 3/2017: The Collector’s F/E Fair/Exhibition Magazine Subject to changes and additions. You can always find the latest version August F/E 25 –27.8. ’s-Hertogenbosch Multilaterale Hertogpost 2017 at www.swisspost.ch/stamps. 7 Special stamp 70th Festival del film Locarno

The smallest festival poster in the world

The Festival del film Locarno lays claim to being one of the oldest film events with one of the biggest screens in the world. It will be taking place for the 70th time from 2–12 August 2017.

Every summer, Locarno’s intimate Piazza lene Dietrich, Jean-Luc Godard, Quentin to be a pivotal venue for Mike Leigh, Spike Grande becomes a Mecca for film buffs. Tarantino, Olivia Wilde, Sir Anthony Lee and Jim Jarmusch. Thousands of fans and filmmakers come Hopkins, Juliette Binoche, Jane Birkin, The special stamp was designed by the together to enjoy a high-quality pro- Edward Norton, to name but a few. festival’s artist in accordance with exact- gramme full of surprises. Talented young Locarno has also created stars. Back in ing corporate design specifications. Natu- artists join famous guests and well-estab- 1948, in the festival’s second year, Roberto rally it features the festival’s trademark, lished celebrities from the industry. The Rossellini was awarded the main prize, the leopard – and thus constitutes the audience is the beating heart of this festi- the Golden Leopard. Several decades later, world’s smallest film poster. val, which attracts up to 8,000 spectators a talented young director by the name of to the Piazza Grande each evening. Stanley Kubrick was discovered. Five During the course of its 70-year history, years after that came an unknown direc- the Festival del film Locarno has wel- tor from the Czech Republic – none other comed countless international stars. Mar- than Miloš Forman. Locarno also proved

70th Festival del film Locarno CHF 1.00

Sheet Single stamp Block of four of 20 stamps Unstamped A152 150 w A152 160 w A152 111 w cover C6 Key A152 550 ( A152 560 ( A152 511 ( A152 700 w = mint CHF 1.00 CHF 4.00 CHF 20.00 CHF 0.90 ( = cancelled

Block of four Folder/collection sheet Single stamp on first day cover C6 on first day cover C6 A152 640 w A152 580 ( only CHF 1.90 A152 630 ( only CHF 4.90 A152 650 ( CHF 1.80

Sales Paper Philately: From 4.5.2017 to 30.6.2018, White stamp paper with optical while stocks last brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm² Post offices: From 11.5.2017, while stocks last Perforation Validity 13¼:13½ Unlimited from 11.5.2017 Design Printing Jannuzzi Smith, Lamone Offset, 4-colour; Cartor Security Printing La Loupe, France First day Sizes cover motif Stamp: 33 × 28 mm Sheetlet: 194 × 140 mm (4 rows of 5 stamps) First day cancellation

9 Special stamp 125 years of the Brienz Rothorn railway

Nostalgia with a view

The Brienz Rothorn railway (BRB) was commis- sioned in 1892, just 15 months after construction work began. At the time, it was the highest steam-powered rack railway in the world. The fascination with this railway remains to this day.

No fewer than 640 men, most of Number 5, a first-generation loco- whom were Italians, were involved motive. It was built by the Swiss Lo- in the construction of this unique comotive- and Machine Works in railway. The impressive altitude Winterthur in 1891–1892. Following difference still astonishes visitors conversion and modification work to this day. Covering a distance of in 1935–36 and 1990, it is still in use just 7.6 kilometres, the train ride today. It requires 300 kg of coal and from Brienz (566 metres above sea 2,000 litres of water to make the level) to the dizzy heights of the Ro- journey from Brienz up to the top of thorn summit at 2,244 metres above the Rothorn. sea level takes just under an hour The designers of the special stamp and climbs no less than 1,678 metres. have not shied away from the sooty, The breathtaking ascent is suitably dirty and oily nature of this me- impressive. The railway has an av- chanical work of art. The sheet erage gradient of 22.4% and a maxi- margin features a carriage in the mum gradient of 25% (equivalent to characteristic red of the BRB. In the The original poster of the opening in 1892 1 in 4 in road terminology). This background is the view of the provides the basis for the picture postcard. means that the railway climbs 25 mountain panorama – on a clear metres for every 100 metres of track! day, you can see over 693 Alpine The special stamp marking the peaks from the Brienzer Rothorn. 125th anniversary features the

10 ✁ Reader offer Discounted trip on the Brienz Rothorn railway! This voucher entitles you to a discount of CHF 10.00 or CHF 5.00 (half-fare card and general rail pass) on the current ticket price. One voucher per person. Redeemable at the valley sta- tion of the Brienz Rothorn railway until the end of the season (22 October 2017). This voucher cannot be used in conjunction with other offers.

Order using the enclosed 125 years of the Brienz Rothorn railway order form or at postshop.ch CHF 1.00

Sheetlet Single stamp Block of four of 8 stamps Unstamped covers/sheetlets A153 150 w A153 160 w A153 311 w Key C6 (162 × 114 mm) C5 (229 × 162 mm) A153 550 ( A153 560 ( A153 351 ( w = mint A153 700 A153 701 CHF 1.00 CHF 4.00 CHF 8.00 ( = cancelled CHF 0.90 CHF 1.20

Block of four Folder/collection sheet Single stamp on first day cover C6 on first day cover C6 A153 640 w A153 580 ( only CHF 1.90 A153 630 ( only CHF 4.90 A153 650 ( CHF 1.90

Picture postcard Face value CHF 1.00 + 1.00 for the card Sheetlet on first day cover C5 A153 841 w A153 590 ( only CHF 9.20 A153 846 ( CHF 2.00

Sales Paper Philately: From 4.5.2017 to 30.6.2018, White stamp paper with optical while stocks last brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm² Post offices: From 11.5.2017, while stocks last Perforation Validity 13¾:13¼ Unlimited from 11.5.2017 Design Printing Arnold & Braun Grafik Design, Lucerne First day cover motif Offset, 4-colour; Joh. Enschedé, Haarlem, Netherlands

Sizes Stamp: 32.5 × 32.5 mm Sheetlet: 192 × 115 mm (2 rows of 4 stamps) First day cancellation

11 Special stamp with surcharge 100 years of Pro Senectute

Many attractions

The Pro Senectute Foundation has been supporting elderly people and their relatives since 1917. This major milestone is being celebrated with a whole series of events and activities.

Pro Senectute is to be a guest at the Swiss National Day celebrations on the Rütli Pro Senectute tour meadow on 1 August. There will also be a The Foundation is going on tour in Switzerland in its anniversary year. concert tour during which the Swiss The programme includes: Youth Symphony Orchestra will play – SBB tickets on your smartphone: tips and tricks along live to the classic Charlie Chaplin – The biggest generation selfie in movie “Modern Times”. And last but not the world least, Pro Senectute is going on tour (see – Useful information about new fixed-line telephony box). – Stage show with surprise guests This anniversary stamp highlights the ser- – A hearing test with a difference

vices provided by the institution in a pos- For more information, go to itive visual language that conveys vitali- prosenectute.ch/100jahre ty and effortlessness. Proceeds from the surcharge will benefit the Foundation. © Pro Senectute

Order using the enclosed 100 years of Pro Senectute order form or at postshop.ch CHF 1.00 (1.00+0.50)

Sheet Single stamp Block of four of 20 stamps Unstamped A157 150 w A157 160 w A157 111 w cover C6 Key A157 550 ( A157 560 ( A157 511 ( A157 700 w = mint CHF 1.50 CHF 6.00 CHF 30.00 CHF 0.90 ( = cancelled

Block of four Folder/collection sheet Single stamp on first day cover C6 on first day cover C6 A157 640 w A157 580 ( only CHF 2.40 A157 630 ( only CHF 6.90 A157 650 ( CHF 2.30

Sales Sizes Philately: From 4.5.2017 to 30.6.2018, Stamp: 33 × 28 mm while stocks last Sheetlet: 194 × 144 mm (4 rows of 5 stamps) Post offices: From 11.5.2017, while stocks last Paper Validity White stamp paper with optical Unlimited from 11.5.2017 brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm²

Printing Perforation Offset printing, 4-colour, Bagel Security Print, 13¼:13½ Düsseldorf, Germany Design First day Team Dänzer, Thun cover motif First day cancellation

12 Special stamps with surcharge Pro Patria – Fortresses and castles of Switzerland

War and peace

The only thing that these two castles really have in common is their immediate proximity to a lake. Visconti Castle in Locarno and Oberhofen Castle on the Lake of Thun are both motifs on this year’s Pro Patria stamps.

While the 12th century Visconti Castle in agine the size of the original fortress. The Locarno has been besieged, captured castle is now a museum. and destroyed on numerous occasions, The site in Oberhofen has changed hands the castle of a similar age in Oberhofen on numerous occasions and has been can look back on a far more peaceful his- converted and expanded over the centu- tory. ries, first as a castle and later as a summer Only around one fifth of the original site residence. It has been open to the public remains in Locarno. One can only im- since 1954.

Pro Patria – Fortresses and castles of Switzerland CHF 1.25 (0.85+0.40) Visconti Castle (Locarno, TI) • CHF 1.50 (1.00+0.50) Oberhofen Castle (BE) Order using the enclosed order form or at postshop.ch Sheet of 20 stamps Set Set of blocks of four 0.85+0.40 Visconti Castle (Locarno, TI) 1.00+0.50 Oberhofen Castle (BE) Unstamped A154 150 w A154 160 w A154 111 w A154 112 w cover C6 A154 550 ( A154 560 ( A154 511 ( A154 512 ( A154 700 CHF 2.75 CHF 11.00 CHF 25.00 CHF 30.00 CHF 0.90

Single stamp on first day cover C6 Block of four on first day cover C6 Folder/collection sheet Set on first day cover C6 (2 covers) (2 covers) A154 640 w A154 580 ( only CHF 3.65 A154 600 ( only CHF 4.55 A154 630 ( only CHF 12.80 A154 650 ( CHF 3.55

Stamp booklet 4 stamps at CHF 0.85+0.40 with the motif “Visconti Castle (Locarno, TI)” and 6 stamps at CHF 1.00+0.50 with the motif “Oberhofen Castle (BE)" Key A154 300 w w = mint A154 800 ( CHF 14.00 ( = cancelled

Sales Sizes Philately: From 4.5.2017 to 31.12.2017, Stamp: 33 × 28 mm while stocks last Sheetlet: 194 × 140 mm (4 rows of 5 stamps) Post offices: From 11.5.2017 to 31.8.2017, while stocks last Paper White stamp paper with optical Validity brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm² Unlimited from 11.5.2017 Perforation Printing 13¼:13½ Offset, 5-colour, scale + Pantone Gold Cartor Security Printing, La Loupe, France Design First day Angelo Boog, Wallisellen cover motif First day cancellation

13 Special stamps Churfirsten

Sondermarken Timbres-poste spéciaux Francobolli speciali Special Stamps CHURFIRSTEN CHURFIRSTEN CHURFIRSTEN CHURFIRSTEN 546362

CHURFIRSTEN CHURFIRSTEN CHURFIRSTEN CHURFIRSTEN

1 SELUN 2 FRÜMSEL 3 BRISI 4 ZUESTOLL 5 SCHIBENSTOLL 6 HINDERRUGG 85 HELVETIA 85 HELVETIA 85 HELVETIA 85 HELVETIA 7 CHÄSERRUGG 10.20

BERNADETTE BALTIS 2017 BERNADETTE BALTIS 2017 BERNADETTE BALTIS 2017 BERNADETTE BALTIS 2017

CHURFIRSTEN CHURFIRSTEN CHURFIRSTEN CHURFIRSTEN

1 SELUN 2 FRÜMSEL 3 BRISI 4 ZUESTOLL 5 SCHIBENSTOLL 6 HINDERRUGG 85 HELVETIA 85 HELVETIA 85 HELVETIA 85 HELVETIA 7 CHÄSERRUGG 6.80

BERNADETTE BALTIS 2017 BERNADETTE BALTIS 2017 BERNADETTE BALTIS 2017 BERNADETTE BALTIS 2017

CHURFIRSTEN CHURFIRSTEN CHURFIRSTEN CHURFIRSTEN

1 SELUN 2 FRÜMSEL 3 BRISI 4 ZUESTOLL 5 SCHIBENSTOLL 6 HINDERRUGG 85 HELVETIA 85 HELVETIA 85 HELVETIA 85 HELVETIA 7 CHÄSERRUGG 3.40

BERNADETTE BALTIS 2017 BERNADETTE BALTIS 2017 BERNADETTE BALTIS 2017 BERNADETTE BALTIS 2017

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 The panorama extends across 2204 m.ü.M. 2266 m.ü.M. 2277 m.ü.M. 2234 m.ü.M. 2234 m.ü.M. 2306 m.ü.M. 2260 m.ü.M. the entire sheet. A magnificent panorama Churfirsten is a mountain range of incredibly jagged peaks that rise up to 2,306 metres above sea level over Lake Walen at 419 metres. The ridges to the north descend more gently towards Toggenburg.

The Flumserberg mountains offer a par- years ago. In her latest work, the impres- ticularly impressive view of the Chur- sive mountain peaks and the picture as a firsten range. Indeed, it was this perspec- whole create a 3D effect. The striking tive that designer Bernadette Baltis chose horizontal geological strata can also be for the special stamps. seen extremely clearly. This effect is cre- The seven most famous peaks form a con- ated by the designer’s special working tinuous panorama, split across four methods. The design is based on more stamps. The vignette with the names of than a dozen photographs. These were the individual mountain peaks is unique combined to form a collage and painstak- to the sheet. The mountain heights are ingly reworked by hand using coloured also listed on the lower sheet margin. pencils. The designer left out insignifi- Bernadette Baltis is an experienced cant elements and highlighted key de- “Kuhfürsten”? stamp designer and created a panorama tails – the result is ultimately a drawing! Many people have speculated about of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau ten the unique name of this mountain range. Was it originally a mocking term which in German is a play on words: cow (Kuh) and elector prince (Kurfürst)? Or does it refer to a histori- cal boundary of the bishopric of Chur? Or does the name have something to do with the seven electors of the Holy Roman Empire who were responsible for electing the King? There are argu- ments for and against in each case.

Reverse of FDC: The illustration on the reverse is an extract from “Das Gebirge auf der Nordseite des Walensees. Speer–Mattstock–Churfirsten, 1:15’000” The original picture can be found in the Swiss Alpine Museum in Berne. 14 Churfirsten CHF 0.85 Selun-Frümsel • CHF 0.85 Brisi-Zuestoll • CHF 0.85 Schibenstoll-Hinderrugg • CHF 0.85 Chäserrugg

Order using the enclosed Sheet Set Set of blocks of four of 12 stamps order form or at postshop.ch A151 150 w A151 160 w A151 111 w A151 550 ( A151 560 ( A151 511 ( CHF 3.40 CHF 6.80 CHF 10.20

Single stamp on first day cover C6 Block of four on first day cover C6 Set on first day cover E6 (4 covers) (2 covers) A151 580 ( only CHF 4.40 A151 600 ( only CHF 7.00 A151 630 ( only CHF 8.60

Unstamped covers C6 (162 × 114 mm) A151 700 CHF 0.90 E6 (200 × 140 mm) A151 701 CHF 1.00

Key Folder/collection sheet w = mint A151 640 w ( = cancelled A151 650 ( CHF 4.20

Sales Sizes Philately: From 4.5.2017 to 30.6.2018, Stamp: 157.5 × 40.5 mm while stocks last (39 × 40.5 mm, 37.5 × 40.5 mm, 40.5 × 40.5 mm, Post offices: From 11.5.2017, while stocks last 40.5 × 40.5 mm) Sheetlet: 216 × 151.5 mm (3 rows of 4 stamps) Validity Unlimited from 11.5.2017 Paper White stamp paper with optical Printing brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm² First day cancellation Offset, 4-colour; Gutenberg AG, Schaan, Liechtenstein Perforation 13¼

Design First day Bernadette Baltis, Uerikon/Stäfa cover motif

15 Special stamps Europa – Castles

Well-fortified sites

Sasso Corbaro, Montebello, Castelgrande are the sweet-sounding names of the three castles in Bellinzona. They are depicted on two special stamps designed in the context of the PostEurop competition.

Each year, the participating postal ad- vent the Swiss from gaining ground to the Pass was becoming the most important ministrations design their entries based south. But in 1503, Bellinzona chose to route across the Alps. It was home to the on a theme chosen by PostEurop. On withdraw from Milanese rule and in- governors of Canton Schwyz. each occasion, Swiss Post issues two stead joined the Swiss Confederation. In Castello di Sasso Corbaro, shown on the stamps in a sheet. One of these is entered the following years the fortresses were left, is the smallest and newest of the into PostEurop’s international online used against the south. three castles, but enjoys the most elevat- competition. The competition will run Castelgrande – depicted on the right-hand ed position. In 1506 the castle fell into the from 9 May to 31 August 2017 at pos- stamp – is the oldest of the three castles hands of Canton Nidwalden and re- teurop.org/europa2017. and was first mentioned in 590. From mained there until it was passed on to Bellinzona’s castles and their fortified 1506 it became the seat of the federal gov- newly founded Canton Ticino in 1803. walls form part of the UNESCO World ernors of Canton Uri. Heritage Site. Their history dates back to Castello Montebello is the fortification in the Palaeolithic Period. In the Middle the middle. It was built towards the end Ages, they were initially intended to pre- of the 13th century, just as the Gotthard

Switzerland and its neighbouring countries are issuing a special joint product again this year. The joint product contains the original stamps from Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and the respective first day cancellations. The beautifully designed booklet is a must for all stamp lovers!

16 Europa – Castles CHF 1.00 Sasso Corbaro & Montebello • CHF 1.00 Castelgrande Order using the enclosed order form or at postshop.ch Sheet Set Block of four of 16 stamps* A155 150 w A155 160 w A155 111 w * The sheet comprises 8 stamps with the motifs “Sasso Corbaro A155 550 ( A155 560 ( A155 511 ( & Montebello” and “Castelgrande”; not available separately. CHF 2.00 CHF 4.00 CHF 16.00

Single stamp on first day cover C6 Block of four Set on first day cover C6 (2 covers) on first day cover C6 A155 580 ( only CHF 2.90 A155 600 ( only CHF 3.80 A155 630 ( only CHF 4.90

Unstamped cover C6 A155 700 CHF 0.90

Joint product Multilateral set of Switzerland, by Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg and the Nether- lands, featuring the 10 Europa special stamps. Article available in German only. A155 990 w only CHF 17.00 Folder/collection sheet This product is not delivered as part of a standing Key A155 640 w order. Note: delivery may be delayed by several days w = mint A155 650 ( CHF 2.80 once this product becomes part of the order. ( = cancelled

Sales Paper Philately: From 4.5.2017 to 30.6.2018, White stamp paper with optical while stocks last brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm² Post offices: From 11.5.2017 to 30.6.2018, while stocks last Perforation 13¼:13½ Validity Unlimited from 11.5.2017 Design Davide Ackermann, Lugano Printing Offset, 4-colour, scale; Gutenberg AG, Schaan, Liechtenstein First day cover motif Sizes Stamp: 40 × 28 mm Sheetlet: 190×142 mm (4 rows of 5 stamps) First day cancellation

17 Special stamp 50 years ch Foundation (for federal cooperation)

Spotlight on federalism

The 26 Swiss cantonal coats of arms provided the basis for one of Switzerland’s most fundamental concepts – federalism.

The ch Foundation for federal cooperation linguistic communities of Switzerland, Geel created an illustration using the col- was founded in 1967 as a foundation un- and provides services for the cantons. ours and shapes of all 26 Swiss cantonal der private law and is sponsored by all 26 The design of the special stamp marking coats of arms. She broke down the design Swiss cantons. It is committed to the con- the 50th anniversary of the ch Founda- of the individual coats of arms to create cept of federalism. As a well-connected tion had a specific mission to fulfil – to one overall composition that visualizes institution, it also promotes bridge-build- represent unity in diversity in a contem- diversity in unity. ing between the cantons and different porary way. St. Gallen illustrator Sylvia

50 years ch Foundation (for federal cooperation)

CHF 1.00 Order using the enclosed order form or at postshop.ch Sheet Single stamp Block of four of 16 stamps Unstamped A156 150 w A156 160 w A156 111 w cover C6 A156 550 ( A156 560 ( A156 511 ( A156 700 CHF 1.00 CHF 4.00 CHF 16.00 Key w = mint ( = cancelled CHF 0.90

Block of four Folder/collection sheet Single stamp on first day cover C6 on first day cover C6 A156 640 w A156 580 ( only CHF 1.90 A156 630 ( only CHF 4.90 A156 650 ( CHF 1.80

Sales Paper Philately: From 4.5.2017 to 30.6.2018, White stamp paper with optical while stocks last brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm² Post offices: From 11.5.2017, while stocks last Perforation Validity 13¼:13½ Unlimited from 11.5.2017 Design Printing Sylvia Geel, St. Gallen Offset, 4-colour; Cartor Security Printing La Loupe, France First day cover motif Sizes Stamp: 40 × 32.5 mm Sheetlet: 192.5 × 163 mm (4 rows of 4 stamps) First day cancellation

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Order using the enclosed Annual and special products order form or at postshop.ch 2017 stamp catalogues

Zumstein Swiss Stamp Set of single stamps, Switzerland/ Dealers Assoc. 2/2017 edition Liechtenstein/ Switzerland / Liech- The single stamps and sets in the 2016 year set UN Geneva tenstein/UN Geneva 2/2017 issue of 11.5.2017 are dis- All 48 Swiss stamps for the year (without special event stamp), German/French German/French played on a free A5 backing card and clearly laid out on handy display cards with transparent protective A113 725 A113 787 protected with cellophane wrapping. sleeve. CHF 35.00 CHF 37.00 A150 150 w A123 320 w A150 550 ( CHF 13.65 A123 820 ( CHF 59.75 The stamp catalogues are only available in Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

Stamp collector starter set

Set of first day covers, 2/2017 edition The first day covers with single stamps 2016 year set of first day covers and sets in the 2/2017 issue of All 26 first day covers (FDCs) of the year (without special event 11.5.2017 are combined in one free stamp) – including the single stamps, sets and miniature sheets cover. with the respective first day cancellations. A150 580 ( only CHF 20.95 A123 530 ( only CHF 88.45

Also available on standing order! Tel.: +41 848 66 55 44 @swisspost.ch E-mail: stamps Everything you need for collecting stamps packed in a yellow rucksack (41× 33 cm): – Collection poster with instructions on how to collect stamps (A3) – Display cards 2016 year book of Swiss stamps – Drying book As a valuable contemporary document the year – Magnifying glass book presents all 49 Swiss stamps (including – Tweezers the special event stamp) along with all the first – Perforation gauge day cancellations and an exclusive black print, – Used stamps for soaking off on 100 pages in four languages(Ge/Fr/It/En). – Stamp catalogue A124 830 w – Information about subscribing to “Tell me what A124 831 ( CHF 69.00 you collect" 1558 901 (German) CHF 29.00

Key w = mint ( = cancelled The Stamp collector starter set can only be delivered in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. 19