What is a commemorative stamp?

Commemorative stamps are stamps, sets and souvenir sheets issued to mark particular events or anniversaries, promote exhibitions and other occasions, explore specific themes, or sometimes serve propaganda purposes.

Unlike definitive stamps, commemorative issues are not intended primarily to meet the basic day-to-day needs of the postal service and are therefore usually produced in predetermined quantities. In Hungary, the first commemorative stamps were issued in 1916 for the coronation of Charles IV.

It should be noted, however, that the 1913 Flood Relief (I) set had already been issued in connection with a specific event, namely the flooding in Krassó-Szörény County. Its print run was also limited to 130,000 sets, so in practice it may be regarded as Hungary’s first commemorative stamp set. No new stamp design was created specifically for the occasion, however; instead, values from the 1913 Turul issue were modified by adding an inscription indicating the surcharge.

Popular themes

Commemorative issues became increasingly common thereafter. Among the most popular themes are sport, wildlife, flowers, space exploration, anniversaries and the promotion of current events.

The role of commemorative stamps today

In recent years, as the everyday use of postage stamps has declined, commemorative issues have almost completely taken over the role once played by definitive series. Under current postal practice, definitive issues are now generally released only for Easter and Christmas, while other postal needs can also be met by commemorative stamps.