Scott Number: -
Serial number: 2011-26
Values in set: 4
Denomination: 480 fen
Date of issue: October 13, 2011
Size of stamp: 33 * 44 mm
Perforation: 13.5
Sheet composition: 12
Size of Sheet: 164 * 180 mm
Size of S/S: 95 * 130 mm
Size of S/S stamp: 48 * 66 mm
Denomination of S/S: 600 fen
Designer: Gan Zhige
Printing process: Offset
Printer: Henan Postage Stamp Printing House

On October 13, 2011, the special stamp "A Beautiful New Homeland" (catalog number 2011-26) was officially issued, showcasing the major achievements of post-earthquake reconstruction following the Wenchuan earthquake. The set consists of four stamps, each with a face value of 1.20 yuan, for a total face value of 4.80 yuan, with a souvenir sheet (face value 6 yuan) issued concurrently. The stamps were created by the collective editorial and design department of the Stamp Printing Bureau (executed by Shi Yuan), and printed by Henan Post and Telecommunications Printing Factory using offset printing.

This stamp set is the second Wenchuan earthquake-related issue following the 2008 "Earthquake Relief – United as One" stamp. It focuses on four major reconstruction areas: new towns, ancient towns, public facilities, and rural housing. It authentically records the process of rebuilding from the ruins, demonstrates the spirit of national support for the disaster area and the resilience of the affected population, carries forward the great spirit of earthquake relief, and bears witness to the decisive victory of post-disaster recovery and reconstruction, symbolizing a new chapter of rebirth and stability.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background:

New Town After the Earthquake

Image: In the foreground, the main sculpture of the Wenchuan Earthquake Memorial Hall in Yingxiu Town, with the reconstructed Yingxiu New Town in the background.
History: Yingxiu Town was at the epicenter of the earthquake. The new town was scientifically planned after the disaster, with improved residential and memorial facilities, bearing the significance of remembering the disaster and looking forward to new life.
Significance: An iconic epitome of rebirth in the epicenter area.

New Look of an Ancient Town

Image: An earthquake relief-themed sculpture in the foreground, with the reconstructed Qiang-style watchtowers and cultural tourism streets of Shuimo Ancient Town in Wenchuan in the background.
History: Shuimo Town was rebuilt while preserving its Qiang cultural heritage, balancing residential relocation with cultural tourism development, achieving both preservation of the ancient town's character and improvement of people's livelihoods.
Significance: A model of protective post-disaster reconstruction of a minority ancient town.

Reconstruction of Public Facilities

Image: The Beichuan Earthquake Memorial Square sculpture in the foreground, with the reconstructed Zijing Hall of Beichuan Middle School in the background.
History: Public facilities such as education and healthcare were given priority for reconstruction, ensuring basic public services for the affected population.
Significance: A symbol of post-disaster livelihood protection and the restoration of public services.

New Rural Housing

Image: A figure sculpture paired with the rural resettlement housing of Erma Community in Beichuan New Town, with the five-star red flag in the background.
History: Large numbers of affected households moved into standardized new housing, with comprehensive improvement of rural living conditions, achieving the goal of secure housing.
Significance: A portrait of the new life of rural residents living in peace and contentment.

Souvenir Sheet: A Beautiful New Life

Image: A central earthquake relief group sculpture, with the western Sichuan mountains, new village settlements, and modern transportation networks in the background.
History: Brings together the achievements of urban and rural reconstruction, symbolizing nationwide support and unity, as the disaster area enters a stable and happy new life.
Significance: Elevates the theme of the entire stamp set, summarizing the grand achievements of post-disaster reconstruction.

Artistic and Design Features:

Format: Uniform vertical stamp format with consistent composition across the four stamps (foreground sculpture + background architectural scene), creating a neat and coordinated visual system.
Color: Use of bright and vibrant tones, moving away from heavy, oppressive moods to highlight a thriving and revitalized atmosphere.
Narrative Logic: Progressing from the epicenter town, ethnic ancient town, public facilities, to rural housing, covering all key areas of reconstruction from urban to rural.
Content: Sculptural elements carry historical memory, while new constructions showcase reconstruction achievements, balancing remembrance of the past with anticipation for the future.

This stamp set is an important modern stamp issue in the category of post-disaster reconstruction following major disasters, forming a series with the "Earthquake Relief – United as One" stamp. The subject matter covers earthquake relief, post-disaster reconstruction, and Sichuan regional culture. Available in both stamp set and souvenir sheet formats, it carries strong documentary value for the era and is suitable for thematic collections on major events, public welfare, and Sichuan regional themes.