Stamps
200 years shipping on Lake Maggiore
Steamships have been crossing Lake Maggiore for two centuries, connecting Switzerland with Italy. The commemorative stamp honours this pioneering technical and cultural achievement.
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Since 1826, steamboat travel on Lake Maggiore has stood for progress, exchange and cross-border mobility. The first steam-powered ships marked the beginning of a new era, which would have a lasting impact on trade, tourism and the development of the region. Today, historic paddle steamers are a reminder of this time, in particular the lovingly restored ships that still glide over the lake and bring the history of technology to life.
The stamp marking the 200th anniversary echoes this tradition. Its nostalgic design references historical illustrations and recalls the beginnings of shipping. The outline of Lake Maggiore is also visible in the rising steam. Combining past and present, the stamp pays tribute to Lake Maggiore as a transport route, cultural area and common heritage between two countries.
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Technical information
Sales
Philately: from 30.4.2026 to 30.6.2027 or while stocks last
Branches: from 7.5.2026 to 30.6.2027 or while stocks last
Validity
Unlimited from 7.5.2026
Printing
Offset, 4-colour; Cartor Security Printers, Meaucé-La Loupe, France
Formats
Stamp: 80 × 32 mm
Sheet: 188 × 160 mm, 4 rows of 2 stamps
Paper
White stamp paper, with optical brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm2
Perforation
13 ½ : 13 ½
Design
Antoine Déprez, Novaggio