Date of Issue : 13 Jan 2000
Postmark : Christmas Island 6798
Denomination : 2 x 45c
Stamp Size : 37.5 mm x 26 mm
Paper : De La Rue
Printing Process : Offset Lithography, Printed Six Colour Hexachrome Plus Gold Foiling
The majestic dragon, revered in Chinese culture as a symbol of power, prosperity, and good fortune, takes centre stage in this Year of the Dragon 2000 stamp issue. Marking the fifth animal in the Chinese zodiac cycle, the issue celebrates Lunar New Year and reflects Australia's recognition of the traditions and cultural heritage of its Chinese community. The Dragon is considered one of the most auspicious signs of the Chinese zodiac, symbolising strength, courage, and good fortune. People born in the Year of the Dragon are traditionally believed to be confident, ambitious, charismatic, and natural leaders. The stamp design features a vibrant and stylised dragon inspired by traditional Chinese artistic motifs, with bold colours and flowing forms conveying strength, wisdom, and vitality; alongside the Chinese text for "Year of the Dragon" in gold foil.
When viewed in hand, the miniature sheet is especially impressive, as the gleaming gold foil catches the light beautifully and adds a sense of prestige and opulence to the design. Interestingly, the gold foil that makes the miniature sheet so attractive also made it difficult to digitise, as the foil sections turned black when scanned! After numerous unsuccessful attempts, I switched to using a mobile phone camera to capture an image of the cover. After more than ten attempts, above image is the best that I could get – something that comes close to the original piece, but definitely not the best result.
Check out the prepaid envelope for this issue here. I couldn't get the first day cover back in 2000, and am definitely delighted to finally find it now – still searching for a few more to complete this first series of zodiac stamp issue by Australia Post🤞🏻