75 Years of Ukrainian Postage Stamps souvenir Block

Souvenir Block "Chornobyl Bells" 

Among the silent archives of collectors and the dedicated searches of enthusiasts, a unique philatelic rarity has been preserved – the souvenir block "Chornobyl Bells", dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the first Ukrainian postage stamps. This small yet significant relic is not an ordinary postal issue—it became a symbol of historical memory and a charitable initiative led by Kyiv's philatelic community.

A Commemorative Imprint of History

Created especially for the 1993 philatelic exhibition, this block was the result of the efforts of a passionate group of collectors who sought not only to honor Ukraine’s first postage stamps, the "Shah but also to produce a special charitable souvenir. Unlike typical issues, its proceeds were directed to support the Kyiv Philatelic Club and charitable causes, and it was distributed within a narrow circle of collectors and exhibition participants.

Artistic Concept and Technical Execution

The souvenir was printed on thick paper without adhesive backing, giving it a distinctive appearance. The front prominently displays a nominal value of 50+20  karbovanets and an inscription reading "75 Years of Ukrainian State Postage Stamps." However, the focal point of the composition is the depiction of the first Ukrainian postage stamps, the legendary "Shah", symbolizing the origins of the nation’s philatelic artistry.

A Legend with an Unknown Print Run

Like many unique issues, the exact number of printed copies remains unknown. What is known is that it was produced at the Kyiv Poligraphy Printing Plant, and its quality met the highest standards of the time. This was not merely an amateur project but a refined collector’s work, seamlessly blending historical significance, the symbolism of the Chornobyl tragedy, and Ukraine’s philatelic heritage.

Mykhailo Sydiy – The Architect of a Philatelic Legacy

A key figure in the creation of this issue was Mykhailo Sydiy, an active member of the Kyiv Philatelic Union. His initiative and dedication were instrumental in bringing this idea to life and ensuring that it would be immortalized in the form of this unique souvenir, which today remains a rare and valuable collector’s item.

An Echo of the Past in the Present

The "Chornobyl Bells" souvenir block is more than just a printed sheet. It is a symbol of national heritage, a unifying effort of philatelists to preserve historical memory and support charitable causes, and a reminder that even the smallest artifacts can hold profound meaning. Today, as in the past, this block continues its mission—to safeguard the legacy of Ukrainian philately and the dedicated individuals who cherish it.

the first stamps of Ukraine, 1918. Shagi