Date of Issue : 1 Jan 2001
Postmark : Hong Kong
Denomination : HK$1.30, HK$2,50, HK$3.10 and HK$5.00
Stamp Size : 28 mm x 45 mm
Paper : Paper with Security Fibres
Printing Process : Photogravure
The use of animals to mark the 12 components of the Lunar New Year cycle originates from the Chinese calendar, dating back more than 2,000 years. According to legend, the Lord Buddha himself selected 12 symbolic animals prior to his departure from Earth. As a reward for the animals' loyalty, he named the years in the order in which they appeared before him. Year 2001 is the Year of the Snake. Snake is the sixth animal in the cycle, and according to Chinese astrologers, those born in the Year of the Snake are observant, decisive, philosophical in thinking and tactful in human relations. Above Year of the Snake 2001 stamp issue is the second Lunar New Year special stamp issue in the third zodiac series released by Hongkong Post. The first series was issued from 1967 to 1978; while the second series from 1987 to 1998.