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On Monday, April 28, the Vatican Post Office released a set of four Sede Vacante stamps, valid for use during the current interregnum period following the death of Pope Francis. The stamps were released relatively quickly, being issued only seven days following the passing of the pope. Past Sede Vacante issues were released ten or more days following the death of a pope (the one exception being the Sede Vacante stamps following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, which were released the day after his resignation took effect). The series consists of four stamps with the following face values: €1.25, €1.30, €2.45 and € 3.20. The €1.25 stamp pays the internal rate for Italy; the €1.30 stamp for other European countries; the €2.45 stamp for Africa, Asia and the United States; and the €3.20 stamp for Australia/Oceania. Here is an image of the €1.25 stamp:  The stamps offer an unusual perspective on the traditional Sede Vacante image. They depict an image in three dimensions of the Allegory of the Apostolic See, supported by angels. The Crossed Keys of Saint Peter are protected by the “umbraculum”, or umbrella, with the words: “Sede Vacante MMXXV” and “Città del Vaticano” (as well as the stamp denomination). VPS members have reported seeing the stamps available for sale on internet sites, as well as first day covers. One member has provided an image of a first day cover for the Sede Vacante issue:  The announcement for the stamps, which can be viewed by clicking on the link in the references, also revealed that a special folder will be produced containing all four stamps, along with “official souvenir envelopes and the cancellation especially created for the Sede Vacante 2025”. The folder will be available for purchase starting on Friday, May 2. Stamp and first day cover images used with permission. REFERENCE: |
