Year of the Snake 2001 – Miniature Sheet : Imperforate Stamp

Date of Issue : 1 Jan 2001

Postmark : Hong Kong

Denomination : HK$5.00

Imperforate Miniature Sheet Size : 135 mm x 85 mm

Paper : Paper with Security Fibres

Printing Process : Photogravure

Graceful, intelligent, and mysterious, the Snake occupies a unique place in the Chinese zodiac as a symbol of wisdom and elegance. A continuation of the third zodiac stamp series released by Hongkong Post, the issue consists of four regular stamps (click here to view the stamps) and a miniature sheet (above cover). The single stamp in the miniature sheet showcases a vividly coloured snake coiled in an elegant pose, with flowing curves and intricate decorative patterns that emphasise the animal's beauty and movement. The imperforate stamp in this issue represents a continuation of a philatelic innovation introduced in the Year of the Dragon 2000 issue, with the imperforate format allowing the artwork to be appreciated as a complete composition rather than as a standalone stamp.