Gottardo 2016 Swiss wrestling Nocturnal animals Base tunnel links north and south The sport that gets Swiss hearts Our night, their day beating faster

Gottardo 2016 special stamps with real powdered stone from the Gotthard tunnel

2/2016

Focus on stamps The Collector’s Magazine

Editorial and contents

Dear Reader

A certain breakthrough is opening up new per- spectives and connections: the first weekend in June will see the grand opening of the Gotthard Base tunnel and, with it, completely new pros- pects for north and south. At 57 kilometres in length, it is a world-record-breaking tunnel. 28,200,000 tonnes of rock were excavated during the construction process – particles of which you can find on the special stamps with a gutter.

At the end of August, our champion Swiss wres- Alptransit AG tlers will be offering up fierce battles in the saw- dust, fighting for the coveted laurel wreath in Estavayer-le-Lac. A special sheet of stamps with a vignette in the centre pays tribute to the tradi- tional Swiss sport.

While we humans sleep the sleep of the just, it’s time for four of our animal friends to come out to play: the “Nocturnal animals” set presents crea- tures that few of us are lucky enough to catch a glimpse of in the wild.

This year’s combination print whisks us off to north-eastern – to the beautiful, idyl- lic region of . The motif is sure to put you in a holiday mood. Preview of The new set of Pro Patria stamps (with surcharge) the diverse topics covered in this showcases fortresses and castles. Picture your- issue of “Focus on

self as a damsel or a noble knight, strolling stamps”. Photo archive Estavayer2016 through the ancient buildings.

This year’s Europa stamp is dedicated to the topic “Think Green”, prompting us all to take care of the natural world and to be more aware of the conse- Contents quences of our actions.

Photo: AlptransitPhoto: AG Issuing programme 2016 4 Please note the survey on page 5 of this issue. Why not take part and help us to continue opti- mizing our offering and service? Thank you! Knowledge and News 5

I hope you enjoy browsing through our magazine. Gottardo 2016 6–9

Swiss wrestling 10–12

Pro Patria 13

Nocturnal animals 14–15 Kind regards

Lake Constance 16–17

Carina Ammon Europa – Ecology in Europe 18 Head of CM Stamps & Philately Other products 19 Construction of the crosscut galleries in the Gotthard base tunnel. 3 2016 issuing programme: Stamps and postal stationery from Swiss Post

The second half of the year and still going strong

It’s full steam ahead for the new “Swiss 50-year anniversary, Swiss Post is dedi- And there might just be a few other sur- railway stations” definitive stamp set, cating a special stamp with a surcharge prises in store for you too.

which is due to replace all existing defini- to a dark period of Swiss history. Subject to changes and additions. tive stamps (Vegetable blossoms, Tradi- The stamp offering for 2016 will be You can always find the latest version at tional handicrafts and Mushrooms). rounded off with a celebrity stamp fea- swisspost.ch/stamps. Highly developed production technology turing music stars, Christmas stamps, a enables a perfect presentation of delight- new set of Pro Juventute stamps, a minia- ful motifs, and another classic Swiss ture sheet for Stamp Day in Oberaargau landscape transports us to beautiful Tici- and a joint issue with the Dominican Re- no. While aerophilately is celebrating its public.

Day of issue: 8 September 2016 Day of issue: 17 November 2016 Presented: postshop.ch/lupe Presented: postshop.ch/lupe

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

4 5.35 Definitive stamps 1 1.50 Special stamp 1 1.00 Special stamp 1 2.50 Postal card Swiss railway stations with surcharge Celebrity stamp: Yello Stamp Day 2016 0.85 Brig Compulsory social Oberaargau 1.00 Lucerne measures and forced 2 2.75 Special stamps 1.50 Bellinzona fostering with surcharge 4 5.35 Special stamps 2.00 Geneva Pro Juventute – Christmas 1 1.00 Special stamp At school 0.85 Christmas tree 2 2.00 Miniature sheet 50th Aerophilately Days 0.85+0.40 Breaktime 1.00 Snowman Laser cut 1.00+0.50 Lesson 1.50 Angel 1.00 Flower 1 2.00 Maximum card 2.00 Sledge 1.00 Butterfly 50th Aerophilately Days 1 1.50 Miniature sheet with surcharge 1 6.00 Definitive stamp 1 2.00 Miniature sheet Stamp Day 2016 Swiss railway stations Typical Swiss Oberaargau 6.00 Basel SBB countryside 2.00 Verzasca Valley

We reserve the right to make changes. As at: February 2016

Swiss Post’s General Terms and Conditions Publisher’s details of Business concerning the purchase of stamps and philatelic items form an integral part of individual orders and are tacitly Author: His Matschers Voice accepted by each customer who sends an “Focus on stamps” is a free order. magazine, published in Total print run These Terms and Conditions can be ordered English, German, French 120,000 copies by telephone (+41 [0]848 66 55 44) or by e-mail and Italian. ([email protected]). They are also available at Customer service swisspost.ch/gtc-phila. Published by j Tel.: +41 (0)848 66 55 44 Post CH Ltd j Fax: +41 (0)58 667 62 68 “Focus on stamps” No. 2/2016 Post Offices & Sales j E-mail: [email protected] Copy deadline: 26.2.2016 Stamps & Philately Wankdorfallee 4 j Website: www.swisspost.ch Distribution: from 1.4.2016 3030 Berne, Switzerland j Shop: postshop.ch Stamp issues: 12.5.2016

4 Knowledge and News

Important for you: you decide!

Do you have any questions? Tel.: +41 (0)848 66 55 44 @post.ch E-mail: stamps Dear Reader

You are holding the latest issue of “Focus our latest stamps. In this case too you can on Stamps”. We are pleased to provide tell us your wishes under “Go to Focus you with regular news and updates from on Stamps online” at postshop.ch/lupe. the world of Swiss philately. We will do “Top-Prospekt” will be delivered to Swiss everything we can in future too to arouse domicile addresses only. your interest in the latest stamp-related And finally, all available philately prod- topics. ucts from Swiss Post can be ordered on- Did you know that since the beginning of line at postshop.ch. Please note the enclosed reply card. We 2016 you can also read “Focus on Stamps” We would like to thank you for your in- would appreciate a response from you. online? The same content as in the print terest and look forward to welcoming The English version of the collector's version is available online at postshop.ch/ you in our online world. magazine will no longer be printed af- lupe. Online we also have the possibility ter the 3/2016 issue but will still be of publishing multimedia articles which, available online. If you wish to contin- besides text, photos and diagrams, can ue receiving a hard copy of “Focus on also include audio and video elements. A Stamps", please select your preferred visit to our new online portal is definitely language. worthwhile. And if you like our online presence and no longer wish to receive the paper version of “Focus on Stamps”, Our questions: you can inform us there under the head- – Read “Focus on Stamps” online only ing “Go to Focus on Stamps online”. – Subscribe to “Top-Prospekt” instead As another alternative to the print ver- of “Focus on Stamps” (see sample sion of “Focus on Stamps” we can also copy) recommend the enclosed “Top-Prospekt” – Continue to receive a hard copy of brochure. The order leaflet enclosed with “Focus on Stamps” it makes ordering even easier and sim- – Select preferred language pler, especially if you are interested in

5 Special stamps Gottardo 2016

Installation of the fixed track in the tunnel.Photo: Alptransit AG

The Swiss spirit can move mountains

Two special stamps with a gutter document a strengthened sense of togetherness.

From time immemorial, the giant Gott­ When the mule track was transformed hard has been perched up high on the into a pass road, the mail coaches took Opening ceremony of granite and gneiss of the massif. At least over. A famous painting by Rudolf Koller the Gotthard Base tunnel according to ancient legend. An imposing depicts galloping horses pulling the Gott­ On the weekend of 4 and 5 June 2016, figure, he parts the waters, the four winds hard mail coach in Leventina. 15 or more the opening of the world’s longest and the cardinal points and divides cul- coaches travelled in each direction daily. tunnel will be marked by public cele- tures, languages and mentalities, dash- But even this was barely enough. When brations. The festivities will take place ing all human dreams of mobility and the first tunnel opened in 1882 – a mas- at both portals of the 57-kilometre- freedom of movement. There have, of terpiece of railway technology – the long tunnel. course, always been a few stalwart indi- “crocodile” locomotives and spiral tun- To find out more about the festivities, viduals who have somehow succeeded in nels became famous all over the world. please visit postshop.ch/lupe and climbing over the giant’s shoulders. But it 1980 saw the opening of the road tunnel, gottardo2016.ch. was not until 1200 that the attack on the and the story continued. Alpine barrier began to take a systematic The Gotthard Base tunnel is opening up We look forward to seeing you! approach and the wild Schöllenen Gorge new prospects for the north and south. At was conquered – with the construction 57 kilometres in length, it is a world-re- of a swaying footbridge and, finally, a cord-breaking tunnel. 28,200,000 tonnes bridge allegedly built with the aid of the of rock were excavated during the con- devil. It wasn’t long before the mule struction process, and 325 trains a day trains began to get in each others’ way. are set to speed through the massif. Has The story of tailbacks at the Gotthard Gotthard the Giant climbed down from massif had begun … his perch at last? 6 With real powdered stone from the Gotthard tunnel

For the production of the “Gottardo 2016” special The Swiss spirit stamps, finely powdered stone was extracted from the Gotthard tunnel excavations and affixed to the stamps. You can view a film on our website postshop.ch/lupe offering an insight into the production of the unique can move mountains stamps. You also have the chance to win 20× 2 tickets for a trip through the tunnel on 4 or 5.6.2016, worth CHF 150. Even more reason to visit our website!

CHF 4.00

The two postal cards “Erstfeld” and “Bodio” are available as a set, featuring the “Cargo” and “Re 460” locomotives.

7 Special stamps Gottardo 2016

A stunning souvenir of the Base tunnel

DER GOTTHARD | LE SAINT-GOTHARD 01 IL SAN GOTTARDO | THE GOTTHARD The “Gottardo 2016” souvenir pays trib- mehr als 20 Millionen kehrsmittel fördern will. In kommt auf 24 Milliarden 01 | DER GOTTHARD len. Der Gotthard bildet die det der Gotthard-Basistunnel 1 Menschen im Einzugsgebiet mehreren Abstimmungen hat Franken zu stehen. Die Der Gotthard erstreckt sich Wasserscheide zwischen dem (2016) das neueste Wunder- zwischen Süddeutschland sich die Bevölkerung dafür Basis für die Finanzierung über ein Gebiet von gut 20 Mittelmeer und der Nordsee, werk moderner Technik. und Norditalien profi tieren. ausgesprochen, den alpen- haben die Stimmberechtigten Kilometern Länge zwischen und die wichtigste Alpen- Der Eisenbahn-Scheiteltun- Dank der Flachbahn durch querenden Verkehr 8 von der mit ihrem Ja zum FinöV- ute to the extraordinary achievement of dem Furkapass im Westen transversale der Schweiz nel, an dessen Realisierung den Gotthard werden die Strasse auf die Schiene zu Fonds im Jahr 1998 gelegt. und dem Oberalppass im führt durch das Massiv. Politiker und Bahnpionier Zugverbindungen schneller, verlagern. Die Neue Eisen- Der Fonds wird aus drei Nordosten 1 . Im Zentrum Alfred Escher 7 massgeblich zuverlässiger und pünktlich- bahn-Alpentransversale Quellen gespeist: der Schwer- des Massivs befi ndet sich Früh erkannt hat diese Be- beteiligt war, ist auch heute er. Personenzüge werden (NEAT) mit den beiden Basis- verkehrsabgabe LSVA, der der Gotthardpass auf 2106 deutung auch die Schweizer noch ein herausragendes Bei- auf der Nord-Süd-Achse im tunnels durch den Gotthard Mineralölsteuer und der constructing the world’s longest tunnel. Metern über Meer 2 . Er Armee. In den 1890er-Jahren spiel von Ingenieurskunst. Halbstundentakt und mit und den Lötschberg bildet Mehrwertsteuer. Neben der verbindet die Ortschaften wurden am Gotthard die Beim Bau des 57 Kilometer bis zu 250 Stundenkilo- das zentrale Element dieser NEAT fi nanziert er weitere Andermatt im Kanton Uri ersten Festungen zur Siche- langen Tunnels mussten die metern fahren, die Reisezeit Verkehrspolitik. Mit den Ausbauprojekte für die Eisen- und Airolo im Tessin. rung des Nord-Süd-Verkehrs Mineure unterschiedlichste wird massiv verkürzt. Güter- Nachbarstaaten Deutschland bahn. Anfang 2016 wurde der Namensgeber für das Gebirge angelegt. Der Fels birgt Gesteinsschichten 6 über- züge können mit grösserem und Italien hat die Schweiz FinöV-Fonds durch den Bahn- ist Bischof Godehard von einige grosse Bunker, die im winden: von verschiedenen Gewicht und ohne Vorspann- Staatsverträge abgeschlossen, infrastrukturfonds ersetzt. The 37-page book tells the fascinating sto- 4 Hildesheim, der zu den Zweiten Weltkrieg erstellt Gneisen über harte Granite lokomotive verkehren, was wonach die Zulaufstrecken bedeutenden Heiligen des oder ausgebaut wurden. Beim 5 bis hin zu stark zerbröseln- die Fahrzeiten reduziert. auch im angrenzenden Aus- Mittelalters gehört. Einmarsch fremder Truppen den Sedimenten. Mehr Effi zienz und Zuverläs- land modernisiert werden. hätte sich die Armee in ein sigkeit beim Warentransport Sind all diese Ausbauten ab- Von zentraler Bedeutung Reduit am Gotthard zurück- Um etwa den starken Druck machen die Bahn konkur- geschlossen, wird die NEAT 2 ry of the Gotthard and offers insights into ist der Gotthard in vielerlei ziehen sollen. im Tavetscher Zwischenmas- renzfähiger. das Herzstück eines Güter- Hinsicht: Es treffen nicht siv zu meistern, entwickel- verkehrskorridors von Rotter- nur mehrere schweizerische Durchlöcherter Berg ten die Ingenieure spezielle Von der Strasse auf die dam bis Genua bilden 3 . DIESprach- GESCHICHTE und Kulturbereiche | L’HISTOIRE Verschiedene Tunnel durch- Stahlbögen und Anker. Sie Schiene aufeinander,LA STORIA auch grosse | THE HISTORYbohren das Gotthardmassiv. federten die Verformung des Mit dem Gotthard-Basistun- Die Kosten für den Gotthard- the building of both old and new tunnels. 1815 Flüsse wie der Rhein, die Neben dem Eisenbahn-Schei- Tunnelgewölbes ab. nel beweist die Schweiz, Basistunnel belaufen1968 sich auf Reuss, der Tessin und die teltunnel (1882) und dem Vom Ergebnis – dem Gott- dass sie umweltschonende rund 12 Milliarden Franken, Wiener Kongress Rhone haben hier ihre Quel- AutobahntunnelZwischen Zürich und Baden (1980) bil- hard-Basistunnel – könnenDer Gotthardtunnel Die neu gegründeten und platzsparendeErster Weltkrieg Ver- das gesamteDie ersten HuckepackProjekt- NEATI primi treni passeggeri2 wird die erste Eisenbahn- geht in Betrieb. Schweizerischen Bundes- züge fahren über den attraversano il San Congrès de Vienne Première Guerre mondiale strecke der Schweiz eröffnet, bahnen (SBB) nehmen 4 Mise en service du Gotthard. Im gleichen Gottardo. Nello stesso 5 Congresso di Vienna hier fährt die Spanisch- ihren Betrieb auf. Prima guerra mondiale tunnel du Saint-Gothard Jahr wird der letzte fahr- anno l’ultimo treno a Brötli-Bahn. Congress of Vienna Les Chemins de fers First World War planmässige Dampfzug vapore di linea delle The information is in 4 languages (Ge/Fr/ Il tunnel del Le premier tronçon de fédéraux suisses (CFF), der SBB ausser Betrieb FFS viene messo fuori San Gottardo viene chemin de fer de Suisse nouvellement créés, genommen. servizio. Gottardo_2016_Souvenir_Final_V3.indd 4-5 messo in funzione. 17.12.15 09:59 est inauguré entre Zurich entrent en service. Les premiers trains de The first intermodal et Baden: c’est ici que The Gotthard Tunnel Le Ferrovie Federali marchandises traversent trains run over the circule le train «Spanisch- opens for traffic. Svizzere (FFS) appena le Gothard. La même Gotthard. In the same Brötli», du nom de la fondate avviano la propria année, le dernier train year, the last scheduled pâtisserie qu’il transportait. It/En). It also contains a wealth of histori- attività. à vapeur des CFF en SBB steam train is Tra Zurigo e Baden viene service régulier est taken out of service. inaugurata la prima linea retiré de la circulation. ferroviaria svizzera, la «Spanisch-Brötli-Bahn». 1914- 1939- cal and modern photographs and illus- 1815 1825 1830 1847 1882 1886 1902 1913 1918 1945 1968 Die erste Eisenbahn Die erste befestigte First railway line in Geburtsjahr des The newly founded Swiss Der Lötschbergtunnel Zweiter der Welt fährt Strasse über den Switzerland opens between modernen Automobils Federal Railways (SBB) wird eröffnet. Weltkrieg zwischen Stockton und Gotthard wird eröffnet. Zurich and Baden for mit dem Benz Patent- begins operations. Ouverture du tunnel Seconde Darlington. the Spanisch-Brötli-Bahn. Motorwagen Nr. 1 La première route du Lötschberg Guerre mondiale Le premier chemin est ouverte sur Année de naissance de Apertura del tunnel Seconda de fer du monde le Saint-Gothard. l’automobile moderne trations. The centrefold and accompany- del Lötschberg guerra mondiale circule entre Stockton avec la Benz Patent- Viene inaugurata la et Darlington. Motorwagen Nummer 1 The Lötschberg Tunnel Second prima strada pavimentata opens. World War La prima ferrovia che attraversa il Nascita dell’automobile del mondo percorre San Gottardo. moderna con il primo il tragitto che va da veicolo a motore First paved road opens Stockton a Darlington. brevettato da Benz, over the Gotthard. la «Patent Motorwagen» ing original stamps “Gottardo 2016”, “100 The world’s first railway runs Birth of the modern between Stockton automobile, the Benz and Darlington. Patent-Motorwagen No1 DER TUNNEL | LE TUNNEL years of the Lötschberg Railway” and 04 LA GALLERIA | THE TUNNEL 14 15 04 | DER TUNNEL gesamt beförderten sie 28,2 sind sie mit Brandschutz- Der Bahnverkehr ist voll- Mit 57 Kilometern ist der Millionen Tonnen Ausbruch- türen ausgestattet. ständig automatisiert, Ein- Gottardo_2016_Souvenir_Final_V3.indd 14-15 Gotthard-Basistunnel der material aus dem Tunnel. griffe durch die Fahrdienst- 17.12.15 09:59 “100 years of the Gotthard Railway” make längste Eisenbahntunnel Beim Hauptdurchschlag im Die Züge im Tunnel werden leiter sind in der Regel nicht der Welt. Er besteht aus zwei Oktober 2010 betrug die Ab- auf Gleisen fahren, deren notwendig. einspurigen Röhren 13, die weichung dank Lasertechnik Schwellen fest einbetoniert im Abstand von 40 Metern bloss wenige Zentimeter. sind. Dadurch verkleinert Die Strecke durch den verlaufen. Der Basistunnel sich der Aufwand für den Basistunnel ist mit der elek- the product a valuable collector’s item – weist praktisch keine Stei- Zwei Multifunktionsstellen Unterhalt, und der Fahrkom- tronischen Führerstand- gungen auf, der Scheitelpunkt in Faido und Sedrun unter- fort wird grösser. Insgesamt signalisierung «European liegt auf 550 Metern über teilen die beiden Tunnel- wurden im Basistunnel rund Train Control System» – Meer – auf gleicher Höhe röhren in drei ungefähr gleich 1400 Kilometer Schienen Level 2 (ETCS) ausgerüstet. wie Bern. Er verkürzt die alte lange Abschnitte. Hier befi n- verlegt. Der Lokführer erhält alle not just for stamp collectors and railway Strecke zwischen Altdorf den sich die Nothaltestellen Informationen über Funk (UR) und Bellinzona (TI) um und je zwei Spurwechsel. Die Bahnstromversorgung auf die Anzeige im Führer- 30 Kilometer. Sie ermöglichen, dass Züge erfolgt durch Unterwerke, stand 15. Dank ETCS können von einer Röhre in die andere die aus dem Hochspan- die geplanten Geschwindig- Für den Basistunnel bohrten wechseln können. nungsnetz der SBB gespeist keiten für Personenzüge enthusiasts! die Mineure ein Tunnelsys- werden. Für die Versorgung von bis zu 250 Stunden- tem mit einer Gesamtlänge Alle 325 Meter sind die beiden des Basistunnels werden kilometern erreicht werden. von 153 Kilometern durch Röhren durch Querschläge insgesamt fünf Unterwerke Es erhöht die Sicherheit den Berg. Um Zeit und 14 miteinander verbunden. neu errichtet oder ausgebaut. und ermöglicht Kapazitäts- Kosten zu sparen, arbeiteten In diesen 176 Querschlägen Vier elektronische Stellwer- steigerungen durch kürzere sie gleichzeitig an verschie- sind technische Anlagen ke der neuesten Generation Zugfolgezeiten. Die Neu- denen Abschnitten. Durch für den Bahnbetrieb unter- steuern und überwachen den baustrecke ist so ausgelegt, Zugangsstollen und Schächte gebracht. Im Ereignisfall Betrieb im Tunnel. Gesteuert dass die Züge im Abstand gelangten sie zu tief im Fels dienen sie als Fluchtwege in werden sie von der Betriebs- von drei Minuten verkehren gelegenen Baustellen. Ins- die andere Röhre. Deshalb leitzentrale 16 in Pollegio. können. 13 22 23

Gottardo_2016_Souvenir_Final_V3.indd 22-23 17.12.15 09:59

CHF 19.00

Numismatic letter

The coin dated 28 January 2016 is made of silver and has a diameter of 33 mm. It was designed by Fredy Trümpi. Cover size: B6 (176 × 125 mm).

CHF 39.90 8

Order using the enclosed Gottardo 2016 order form or at postshop.ch CHF 1.00 Erstfeld • CHF 1.00 Bodio

Sheet Set Block of four not issued of 10 stamps* * The sheet includes 5 × 2 stamps with A097 150 w Subscribers to blocks of four will receive A097 111 w the motifs “Erstfeld” and “Bodio” with A097 550 ( 1× A097 150 w and/or A097 550 ( for each A097 511 ( a gutter. The motifs are not for sale CHF 2.00 subscribed block of four CHF 10.00 individually.

Sondermarken Timbres-poste spéciaux 12.5.2016 Francobolli speciali Special stamps

Gottardo 2016

100 c. Erstfeld

100 c. Bodio

Gottardo 2016

Gestaltung/Conception/Realizzazione/Design Vaudeville Studios, Zürich

Offsetdruck/Impression en offset/Stampa offset/Offset printing Cartor Security Printing, La Loupe, France 741 / 895

Single stamp on first day cover C6 Set on first day cover C6 (2 covers) A097 580 ( only CHF 2.90 A097 600 ( only CHF 3.80 Folder / collection sheet A097 640 w A097 650 ( CHF 2.80 Block of four on first day cover Unstamped not issued cover C6 Subscribers to a block of four on the first day cover A097 700 will receive 1× A097 580 ( for each subscribed block CHF 0.90 of four on a first day cover.

Set with one postal card “Erstfeld” and “Bodio”, face value CHF 1.00 + 1.00 per card A097 841 w A097 846 ( CHF 4.00

Numismatic letter Numismatic letter with the set of “Gottardo 2016” special stamps for CHF 2.00 from 12.5.2016 and a “Gottardo 2016” commemorative coin worth CHF 20.00, cancelled with the first day stamp, size B6 (176 × 125 mm) A097 210 ( only CHF 39.90

This article is not delivered as part of a standing order.

Souvenir Multi-language (Ge/Fr/It/En) A097 835 w only CHF 19.00 Key w = mint ( = cancelled

Sales Sizes Philately: From 4.5.2016 to 30.6.2017, Stamps: 104 × 37 mm (inc. gutter) while stocks last (32.7 × 37 mm, 38.6 × 37 mm, 32.7 × 37 mm) Post offices: From 12.5.2016, while stocks last Sheet: 134 × 205 mm (5 rows of 2 stamps and gutter) Validity Unlimited from 12.5.2016 Paper White stamp paper with optical First day Printing brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm² cover motif Offset, 5-colour, and special varnish, with powdered stone from the Gotthard tunnel; Perforation Cartor Security Printing, La Loupe, France 14

Design Vaudeville Studios, Zurich First day cancellation

9 Special stamp Swiss wrestling

Battling it out in breeches

When the Swiss wrestlers flex their muscles in August, they don’t want to end up on their backs in the sawdust. The tailors who create the Swiss wres- seams. The extremely tough fabric years. The young bull Mazot de Cremo, tling sports accessories are based in Em- known as “Zwilch” (jute) consists of twist which will be presented to the winner, is mental, are saddlers by profession and for the warp and linen imported from the black and white, in keeping with the offi- have recently completed their summer east for the weft. These items are re- cial colours of the host canton. The prizes 2016 collection. The breeches (including served exclusively for the top wrestlers also include this evocative sheet of a belt) are available in natural beige and who will be taking part in the Swiss stamps, which can be purchased by dark brown. They come in seven sizes Wrestling and Alpine Festival in Estavay- those not likely to win it with their wres- and boast reinforced seams, which are er-le-Lac from 26 to 28 August 2016 to de- tling skills. up to six times stronger than standard cide the title winner for the coming three 10 And wait for the result: with a perfect hip throw, 2016 Swiss Wrestling Festival in Estavayer the opponent can be laid down on his back. The federal championships will be held from 26 to 28 August Photo: Photo archive 2016. As a sponsor of the event, Swiss Post Ltd will also be repre- Estavayer2016 sented there with a stand and a special post office. We look for- ward to seeing you!

You can find additional information at postshop.ch/lupe and estavayer2016.ch

11 Special stamp Swiss wrestling

Awarding the wreaths: the oak-leaf wreath is awarded to the top 15 percent of wrestlers competing. The ceremony is also known as the “coronation”. Photo: Photo archive Estavayer2016

Swiss wrestling CHF 1.00 Order using the enclosed Sheet order form or at postshop.ch Single stamp Block of four not issued of 12 stamps A098 150 w Subscribers to blocks of four will receive A098 111 w A098 550 ( 1× A098 150 w and/or A098 550 ( for each A098 511 ( CHF 1.00 subscribed block of four CHF 12.00

Sondermarke Timbre-poste spécial 12.5.2016 Francobollo speciale Special stamp

100 c. Schwingen Lutte suisse Lotta svizzera Swiss wrestling Unstamped cover C6 A098 700

CHF 0.90 Schwingen Lutte suisse Lotta svizzera Swiss wrestling

Gestaltung/Conception/Realizzazione/Design Beat Leuenberger, Jürg Glauser, Bern

Offsetdruck/Impression en offset/Stampa offset/Offset printing Block of four on first day cover Joh. Enschedé, Haarlem, Nederland 742 / 896 not issued Subscribers to a block of four on the first day cover will receive 1× A098 580 ( for each subscribed block of four on a first day cover

Folder / collection sheet Single stamp on first day cover C6 A098 640 w A098 580 ( only CHF 1.90 Key w = mint ( = cancelled A098 650 ( CHF 1.80

Sales Paper Philately: From 4.5.2016 to 30.6.2017, White stamp paper with optical while stocks last brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm² Post offices: From 12.5.2016, while stocks last Perforation Validity 13½ Unlimited from 12.5.2016 Design Printing Beat Leuenberger and Jürg Glauser, Berne First day Offset printing, 4-colour; Joh. Enschedé, cover motif Haarlem, Netherlands

Sizes Stamp: 40 × 32.5 mm Sheet: 190 × 161 mm (4 rows [2 × 4 and 2 × 2 stamps] and vignette 80 × 65 mm) First day cancellation

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

A testimony to Swiss chivalry

The Swiss Pro Patria foundation uses stamps with a tax surcharge to raise funds in support of cultural and social projects throughout Switzerland. This year’s Pro Patria stamps portray Zug Castle and Neu-Bechburg Oensingen Charitable foundation Pro Patria is tak- from a fire-breathing dragon. Benedict Castle from the “Fortresses and castles ing up the cudgels for a historical period knocked opponent after opponent from of Switzerland” set (2016–2018). of fortress and castle building in Switzer- their horses – saddles included – at the land. The era calls to mind courageous grand joust of the nobility, to the ap- Links to further information: knights, dainty damsels and their heroic plause of his knaves. Wolfram rescued a www.propatria.ch feats: damsel in distress from the clutches of www.burgzug.ch … Heinrich, the knight known as “Schru- evil enemies and smiled mischievously www.neu-bechburg.ch tan” (the giant), saved a whole region behind his visor …

Pro Patria – Fortresses and castles of Switzerland

CHF 1.25 (0.85+0.40) Zug Castle • CHF 1.50 (1.00+0.50) Neu-Bechburg Oensingen Castle Order using the enclosed order form or at postshop.ch Sheets of 20 stamps Set Set of blocks of four 0.85+0.40 Zug Castle 1.00+0.50 Neu-Bechburg Oensingen Castle Unstamped A101 150 w A101 160 w A101 111 w A101 112 w cover C6 A101 550 ( A101 560 ( A101 511 ( A101 512 ( A101 700 CHF 2.75 CHF 11.00 CHF 25.00 CHF 30.00 CHF 0.90

Sondermarken Timbres-poste spéciaux 12.5.2016 Francobolli speciali Special stamps

Pro Patria

Burgen und Schlösser der Schweiz Forteresses et châteaux de Suisse Fortezze e castelli della Svizzera Fortresses and castles of Switzerland

85 c. + 40 c. Burg Zug Château de Zoug Castello di Zugo Zug Castle

100 c. + 50 c. Schloss Neu-Bechburg Oensingen Château de Neu-Bechburg Oensingen Castello di Neu-Bechburg Oensingen Neu-Bechburg Oensingen Castle

Burgen und Schlösser der Schweiz Forteresses et châteaux de Suisse Fortezze e castelli della Svizzera Fortresses and castles of Switzerland

Gestaltung/Conception/Realizzazione/Design Angelo Boog, Wallisellen

Offsetdruck/Impression en offset/Stampa offset/Offset printing Cartor Security Printing, La Loupe, France 744 / 898

Set on Single stamp on Block of four on Folder / collection sheet first day cover C6 first day cover C6(2 covers) first day cover C6(2 covers) A101 640 w A101 580 ( only CHF 3.65 A101 600 ( only CHF 4.55 A101 630 ( only CHF 12.80 A101 650 ( CHF 3.55

Stamp booklet 4 stamps for CHF 0.85+0.40 with the “Zug Castle” motif and 6 stamps for CHF 1.00+0.50 with the “Neu-Bechburg Oensingen Castle” motif Key A101 300 w w = mint A101 800 ( CHF 14.00 ( = cancelled

Sales Sizes Philately: From 4.5.2016 to 31.12.2016, Stamps: 33 × 28 mm while stocks last Sheets: 194 × 140 mm (4 rows of 5 stamps) Post offices: From 12.5.2016 to 31.8.2016, while stocks last Paper White stamp paper with optical Validity brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm² Unlimited from 12.5.2016 Perforation Printing 13¼:13½ Offset, 5-colour, range + Pantone gold; Cartor Security Printing, La Loupe, France Design First day Angelo Boog, Wallisellen cover motif First day cancellation

13 Special stamps Nocturnal animals

Not all creatures are dull in the dark – for some, it’s the chance to go wild. When the humans are away, the animals will play

At night, when all good citizens make course of evolution: with an acute sense their way to bed to sleep the sleep of the of hearing, highly sensitive sight, organs just, it’s time for some creatures to really of touch, radar-like systems, their own start their revels and turn our night into light sources and many other aids. Swiss their day. Under cover of darkness, they Post is now devoting a set of special go in search of their prey – silently creep- stamps to four native nocturnal animals: ing, flying and lurking – and feast on their the tawny owl, the garden dormouse, the bounty or attract potential mates to play European glow-worm and the hedgehog. by the light of the silvery moon. Mother The stamps can, of course, be used night Nature has equipped them well over the and day.

14 Nocturnal animals

CHF 0.85 Tawny owl • CHF 1.00 Garden dormouse • CHF 1.50 European glow-worm • CHF 2.00 Hedgehog Order using the enclosed order form or at postshop.ch Sheetlets of 8 stamps Set Set of blocks of four 0.85 Tawny owl 1.00 Garden dormouse 1.50 European glow-worm 2.00 Hedgehog A100 150 w A100 160 w A100 311 w A100 312 w A100 313 w A100 314 w A100 550 ( A100 560 ( A100 351 ( A100 352 ( A100 353 ( A100 354 ( CHF 5.35 CHF 21.40 CHF 6.80 CHF 8.00 CHF 12.00 CHF 16.00

Set on Single stamp on Block of four on Key first day cover C6 first day cover C6(4 covers) first day cover C6(4 covers) w = mint A100 580 ( only CHF 6.25 A100 600 ( only CHF 8.95 A100 630 ( only CHF 25.00 ( = cancelled

Sheetlet on Sheetlet on Sheetlet on Sheetlet on first day cover C5 first day cover C5 first day cover C5 first day cover C5 0.85 Tawny owl 1.00 Garden dormouse 1.50 European glow-worm 2.00 Hedgehog A100 591 ( only CHF 8.00 A100 592 ( only CHF 9.20 A100 593 ( only CHF 13.20 A100 594 ( only CHF 17.20

Unstamped covers/sheetlets C6 (162 × 114 mm) C5 (229 × 162 mm) A100 700 A100 701 CHF 0.90 CHF 1.20

Sondermarken Timbres-poste spéciaux 12.5.2016 Francobolli speciali Special stamps

Nachtaktive Tiere Animaux nocturnes Animali notturni Nocturnal animals

85 c. Waldkauz Chouette hulotte Allocco Tawny Owl

100 c. Gartenschläfer Lérot Quercino Garden dormouse Nachtaktive Tiere 150 c. Grosses Glühwürmchen Ver luisant Animaux nocturnes Lucciola European glow-wormAnimali notturni

200 c. Igel Nocturnal animals Hérisson Riccio Hedgehog

Gestaltung/Conception/Realizzazione/Design Sonja Burger, Wildegg

Offsetdruck/Impression en offset/Stampa offset/Offset printing Cartor Security Printing, La Loupe, France 743 / 897 Picture postcards with stamps Set of 4 A6 picture postcards with the motifs “Tawny owl”, “Garden dormouse”, “European glow-worm” and “Hedgehog” plus 4 CHF 1.00 “Garden dormouse” special stamps (not affixed) Folder / collection sheet A100 911 w only CHF 8.00 A100 640 w

A100 650 ( CHF 6.15 The picture postcards are not delivered as part of a standing order.

Sales Sizes Philately: From 4.5.2016 to 30.6.2017, Stamps: 33 × 28 mm while stocks last Sheetlets: 210 × 115 mm (2 rows of 4 stamps) Post offices: From 12.5.2016, while stocks last Paper Validity White stamp paper with optical Unlimited from 12.5.2016 brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm² First day Printing Perforation cover motif Offset printing, 4-colour, and special varnish; 13¼:13½ Cartor Security Printing, La Loupe, France Design Sonja Burger, Wildegg First day cancellation

15 Special stamps Lake Constance Idyllic lake: Lake Constance may stun visitors, but no gimmicks its surprises are always of a pleasant kind.

Let’s get one thing clear from the start: anyone hoping to spot a monster is going to be disappointed. Surrounded by three countries, the waters do not conceal any sea creatures in the vein of Nessie, for ex- ample. With its wealth of islands, Lake Constance is simply too idyllic for that. However, anglers near Bregenz did re- cently catch a huge wels catfish measur- ing 2.5 metres in length. Experts even suspect the existence of older and larger specimens gliding through the depths, measuring up to 3 metres in length and Reader offer weighing well over 100 kilograms. But Dear Readers Take part online now! this shouldn’t stop anyone from enjoying This year our readers’ trip takes us to the beautiful shores of Lake Constance. their water-sports or indulging their fas- The tri-border area of north-eastern Switzerland has much to offer, and cination with the stunning sunsets and we have put together an exciting programme for you. fantastic cloud formations reflected in If you are interested in joining us, make sure you note 19 May 2016 in the enormous mirrored surface. This nat- your diary. ural wonder consists of three bodies of water: the (upper lake), Untersee You can find all information on taking part, including the (lower lake) and Seerhein, which links programme, at postshop.ch/lupe! the first two. The shoreline of this gem is shared by three countries. So it is no sur- We hope to receive many entries for the draw for this exclusive trip, and prise that Swiss Post has chosen to pres- look forward to an unforgettable day in excellent company. ent its new special stamp as a triptych.

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Order using the enclosed Lake Constance order form or at postshop.ch CHF 0.85 Säntis and • CHF 0.85 Obersee • CHF 0.85 Untersee and Ermatingen

Sheet Set* Set of blocks of four of 15 stamps** A099 150 w A099 160 w A099 111 w A099 550 ( A099 560 ( A099 511 ( CHF 2.55 CHF 6.80 CHF 12.75 Key w = mint ( = cancelled

Single stamp on first day cover C6 Block of four on first day cover C6 Set on first day cover C6* (3 covers) (2 covers) A099 580 ( only CHF 3.45 A099 600 ( only CHF 5.25 A099 630 ( only CHF 8.60

Unstamped Sondermarken Timbres-poste spéciaux 12.5.2016 Francobolli speciali cover C6 Special stamps Bodensee Lac de Constance Lago di Costanza A099 700 Lake Constance 85 c. Säntis & Romanshorn

CHF 0.90 85 c. Obersee 85 c. Untersee & Ermatingen

Bodensee Lac de Constance Lago di Costanza Lake Constance

Gestaltung/Conception/Realizzazione/Design WEMAKO KOMMUNIKATION, Ermatingen

Offsetdruck/Impression en offset/Stampa offset/Offset printing Cartor Security Printing, La Loupe, France 740 / 894 * 3 combination-print special stamps “Säntis and Romanshorn”, “Obersee” and “Untersee and Ermatingen” ** The sheet includes 5 horizontal rows with 3 combination-print special stamps “Säntis and Romanshorn”, “Obersee” and Folder / collection sheet “Untersee and Ermatingen”. Motifs not available individually. A099 640 w Subscribers with “Horizontal pair” will receive 1 pair with the A099 650 ( CHF 3.35 left and 1 pair with the right margin.

Sales Sizes Philately: From 4.5.2016 to 30.6.2017, Stamps: 104 × 37.5 mm while stocks last (34.7 × 37.5 mm, 34.7 × 37.5 mm, 34.7 × 37.5 mm) Post offices: From 12.5.2016, while stocks last Sheet: 134 × 215 mm (5 rows of 3 stamps)

Validity Paper Unlimited from 12.5.2016 White stamp paper with optical brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm² Printing Offset printing, 4-colour; Perforation First day cover motif Cartor Security Printing, La Loupe, France 14 (blind embossing)

Design Wemako Kommunikation, Ermatingen First day cancellation

17 Special stamps Europa – Ecology in Europe

Making greener choices

When it comes to the environment, European countries (and others) are all in the same boat.

The planet has a climate problem: since the beginning of the Industrial Revolu- tion, levels of carbon dioxide in the at- mosphere have risen by more than 142 percent, with concentrations of the greenhouse gases methane and nitrous global warming continues at its current think green – be green! To serve as a oxide also rising by 253 and 121 percent rate. After that, there will be no guaran- ­reminder, the European postal organiza- respectively. Something must be done. tee that the city (along with all its banks) tions, including Swiss Post, are issuing As a climate scientist put it: “If the climate will not disappear beneath the waves joint special stamps in 2016. were a bank, we would long since have one day. It is a scenario reminiscent of bailed it out.” According to calculations, disaster movies. But let’s not paint a You can look forward to the multilateral the point of no return for Miami, for ex- wholly dark picture. Instead, let’s re­ product in the 3/2016 issue! ample, is set to be reached in 2041 – if double our efforts to save the planet:

Europa – Ecology in Europe Order using the enclosed order form or at postshop.ch CHF 1.00 Think Green • CHF 1.00 Be Green

Sheet Set Block of four of 16 stamps* * The sheet comprises 8 stamps Unstamped A102 150 w A102 160 w A102 111 w with the motifs “Think Green” cover C6 A102 550 ( A102 560 ( A102 511 ( and “Be Green”; not available A102 700 CHF 2.00 CHF 4.00 CHF 16.00 separately. CHF 0.90

Sondermarken Timbres-poste spéciaux 12.5.2015 Francobolli speciali Special stamps

Ökologie in Europa L’écologie en Europe L’ecologia in Europa Ecology in Europe

100 c. Think Green

100 c. Be Green

Ökologie in Europa L’écologie en Europe L’ecologia in Europa Ecology in Europe

Gestaltung/Conception/Realizzazione/Design Doxia Sergidou, Zypern Nicola Carpi & Dina Christ, Zürich

Offsetdruck/Impression en offset/Stampa offset/Offset printing Giesecke & Devrient GmbH, Leipzig, Deutschland 745 / 899

Set on first day Single stamp on first day cover C6 Block of four on first day Folder / collection sheet cover C6 (2 covers) cover C6 A102 640 w A102 580 ( only CHF 2.90 A102 600 ( only CHF 3.80 A102 630 ( only CHF 4.90 A102 650 ( CHF 2.80

Key w = mint ( = cancelled

Sales Sizes Philately: From 4.5.2016 to 30.6.2017, Stamps: 40 × 32.5 mm while stocks last Sheet: 190 × 162 mm (4 rows of 4 stamps) Post offices: From 12.5.2016, while stocks last 2 motifs on one sheet

Validity Paper Unlimited from 12.5.2016 White stamp paper with optical brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm² Printing Offset printing, 4-colour; Giesecke & Devrient, Perforation Leipzig, 13½

Design Doxia Sergidou, Cyprus (“Think Green” special stamp), Nicola Carpi and Dina Christ, First day Zurich (“Be Green” special stamp) cover motif First day cancellation

18 Other products

Colourful stamps selected for you

Order using the enclosed Annual and special products order form or at postshop.ch 2016 stamp catalogues

Zumstein Swiss Stamp Dealers Set of single stamps, 2/2016 edition Switzerland/ Association The single stamps / sets in the 2/2016 Liechtenstein/ Switzerland/Liechten- issue of 12.5.2016 are displayed on a 2015 year set UN Geneva stein/UN Geneva free A5 backing card with a protective All 52 Swiss stamps for the year, clearly laid out on handy display German/French German/French cellophane wrapping. cards with transparent protective sleeve. A050 725 A049 787 A096 150 w A059 320 w CHF 35.00 CHF 37.00 A096 550 ( CHF 15.65 A059 820 ( CHF 59.80

The stamp catalogues will be delivered in Switzerland and Liechtenstein only.

Set of first day covers, 2015 year set of first day covers 2/2016 edition All 24 first day covers (FDC) of the year – with the respective single The first day covers with the set in stamps, sets or miniature sheets and cancelled with the correspond- the 2/2016 issue of 12.5.2016 are ing first day cancellations – can be ordered as a set, which is also combined in one free cover. available as part of a standing order. A096 580 ( only CHF 21.05 A061 530 only ( CHF 87.90

2015 year book of Swiss stamps As a valuable contemporary document, with each stamp inserted by hand, the year book presents the 52 original stamps of the last year, along with all the first Voucher day cancellations and an exclusive black print on 100 pages in four languages for stamps and (de/fr/it/en). philatelic articles A058 830 w 871 399 A058 831 ( CHF 66.00 CHF 15.00

Key w = mint ( = cancelled 19 Exclusive stamps for the opening of the tunnel: Celebrate with us!

Special stamps (set) CHF 2.00

Souvenir (multi-lingual, de/fr/it/en) CHF 19.00

Set containing one “Erstfeld” and one “Bodio” postal card CHF 4.00

Numismatic letter with the special stamp set You can find more information about these products and a “Gottardo 2016” commemorative coin on pages 6–9 CHF 39.90

Order your memorabilia for the opening of the new Gotthard Base Tunnel easily and conveniently at postshop.ch! Call us on +41 (0)848 66 55 44 or contact us by e-mail at [email protected].

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