Commemorative stamps launched for Jamaica 60

Two commemorative stamps have been launched in honour of the Jamaica’s 60th Independence anniversary.

Culture Minister Olivia Grange, speaking at the launch on Thursday, said it is fitting to produce these stamps at this time to mark an important milestone in Jamaica’s history.

“I want to encourage Jamaicans here and in the diaspora to purchase and use the stamps, and give them as gifts,” Grange said. “Collect these stamps because they are going to be valuable, particularly at this time when everything is going digital.”

The culture minister, while noting that the postal service is being modernised, and that persons are using digital technology as a main communication tool, said that there will always be a need for commemorative stamps.

“Our athletes, our artistes [and] our creatives will always shine in the world and will give you reason to produce the wonderful collection of Jamaican stamps that you are known for,” Grange said.

Jamaica will on August 6 celebrate 60 years of political independence from Britain. The stamps, which are part of the country’s diamond jubilee celebrations, resulted from a partnership between the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport and the Post and Telecommunications Department (Jamaica Post).

Herbert Fletcher, senior director of corporate service at Jamaica Post, said the artwork on the stamp represents the creativity, boldness, and greatness of Jamaicans.

The stamps highlight the Jamaica 60 anniversary logo, which is centred around the swallow-tail hummingbird.

“The bird is shown with its head pointing skyward, symbolising our rise to excellence, while the beak is shown open, [which depicts] the friendly smile and innate warm nature of Jamaicans,” Fletcher said.

The stamps are available at Jamaica Post locations islandwide for $60 and $120. The $60 will be used locally, while the other is intended for international circulation.