Scott No: -
Serial number: 2025-1
Values in set: 2
Date of issue: January 5, 2025
Denomination: 240 fen
Designer: Pan Hu, Zhang Wang
Size of stamps: 36 * 36 mm
Perforation: 13
Sheet composition:
16 for Sheet I;
6 for Sheet II
Size of sheet:
168 * 196 mm for Sheet I;
128 * 180 mm for Sheet II
Printing process: Offset and Engraving
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

China Post is scheduled to issue a set of 2 special stamps titled "Year of the Yisi (Snake)" on January 5, 2025. Designed by Pan Hu and Zhang Wang, the set draws inspiration from Dunhuang murals and traditional folk customs, skillfully integrating the image of the snake with auspicious connotations. It not only embodies the unique charm of the Chinese zodiac culture but also embodies the simple and flexible folk wisdom.

The first stamp, themed "Snake Bringing Bumper Harvests", extracts the vivid imagery of coiled snakes in traditional Chinese culture and adorns it with festive elements to echo the New Year atmosphere. The golden snake winds gracefully, holding a bunch of "auspicious grain" in its mouth, symbolizing the beautiful scene of "abundant granaries and sufficient food and clothing". Its shimmering golden body contrasts beautifully with the bright wheat ears, as if depicting a brilliant and prosperous picture of the harvest season. It implies a year of favorable weather, a bumper harvest of all grains, and a peaceful and prosperous era of national peace and people's security.

The second stamp, themed "Blessings Embracing All Auspiciousness", creatively forms the Chinese character "Fu" (blessing) with three snakes in the style of cursive calligraphy, featuring concise, free-spirited, gentle and smooth lines. The three snakes—two adults and one young—interact with delicate emotions, looking at each other affectionately, vividly presenting a warm scene of family joy. It signifies harmony and coexistence, as well as blessings filling the world, embodying people's infinite pursuit and sincere wishes for a better life. Together, the two stamps not only reinterpret the beauty of the Chinese zodiac but also convey profound blessings for a peaceful and prosperous era and well-being throughout the year.

Printed by Beijing Stamp Printing Co., Ltd., the set has a planned circulation of 26.8 million sets.