Vacant Papal See Stamps

Finally, the much awaited Vacant Papal See stamps are already out!

These stamps released on March 1, 2013 were intended to commemorate the event wherein the Apostolic See became vacant immediately after the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI decided to renounce the Petrine ministry effective February 28, 2013 at 20:00 hours.

The Holy Catholic Church came out with a series of procedures that guaranteed the continuance of ordinary administration while calling the Conclave where Cardinals will choose the new Pope in an election. The government during the time of Sede Vacante is ensured by the Apostolic Camera led by the Cardinal Camerlingo together with the Vice Camerlingo and Cleric Prelates of the Camera.

The issuance of these postal stamps are for correspondence purposes from the Vatican City during the period of the Vacant Papal See.

This series composed of 4 values (€ 0.70, 0.85, 2.00 and 2.50) was designed by artist Daniela Longo.  

See my previous blog featuring the Sede Vacante.

H.H. Benedict XVI in New Postal Envelope

To coincide with the last day of Pope Benedict XVI as pontiff, the Philatelic and Numismatic Office of the Vatican City released an official envelope for 2013.

This 230 x 110mm envelope features a view of St. Peter's Square from a photo by Biagio Tamarazzo. A 2 euro stamp bearing the portrait of H.H. Benedict XVi by artist Mariangela Crisciotti is printed on the upper right of the postal stationary. A total of 20,000 pcs were printed by Tipografia Vaticana.