Stepan Bandera block of stamps

Stepan Bandera non-postal stamp block

Memory woven in the embroidery of light and shadow

This block is more than just six vignette stamps on glossy paper. It is six moments of a life that became a symbol of struggle, courage, and the unbroken Ukrainian spirit. Stepan Bandera — captured in every gaze, in every line of the face, in every photograph suspended between document and legend.

The portraits are rendered in black and white, like memories untouched by time. Each face — a still from a film about resistance, about a path with no return. The frames are reminiscent of traditional Ukrainian embroidery — red and black motifs, the colors of blood and earth intertwined in a single national symbol.

At the top left — a reserved inscription: “1 Hryvnia.” In the top right corner — the year, softly whispering to remembrance: 2008, 2009, 2010... Years when the people felt an urge to remember again — and to honor.

At the bottom of each stamp — a phrase that unveils deeper meaning: “Plast Post.” This is more than a stamp — it’s a part of the living tradition of the Ukrainian scouting movement “Plast,” a reflection of character-building and devotion to the homeland.

These blocks were issued across different years — in days of mourning, moments of triumph, hours of national affirmation. In 2008 — commemorating Bandera’s death. In 2009 — marking the centenary of his birth. In 2010 — celebrating the award of the title Hero of Ukraine. Each had its own aura, subtle changes in the block’s margins, a quiet uniqueness.

Printed on glossy paper without adhesive backing, some with perforation and others without, these stamps are like precious mirrors of time. Their limited runs — from 250 to 450 copies — make each block even more valuable, rare, and collectible.

This release is one of the many initiatives of the philatelic society "Ukrphilkarda", founded in Lviv Region. Formed by a group of Ukrainian philatelists, the organization aimed to promote Ukrainian philately and historical education through the release of non-postal vignette stamps. Active from 1996 to 2010, "Ukrphilkarda" produced a significant number of stamp blocks dedicated to prominent Ukrainian figures and landmark historical dates. Their releases often carried a charitable aspect and were designed not only to preserve memory but to inspire a deeper interest in Ukrainian culture and heritage