The Vatican City stamp collection consists of all the stamps issued by the Vatican City. The first stamps were released to the public in 1929 under the pontificate of Pius XI. Since then, there have been a wide range of subjects and styles found on its stamps.
During each pontificate, the pope influences the subject of stamps. The stamps often reflect the pope’s mission, beliefs, and vision during his papacy. The collection is grouped by pontiff in chronological order, highlighting the role of the pope in papal actions.
Like other nations, stamps serve two functions: proofs of payments for the mail and proof of the Vatican City’s existence as an independent state.
Vatican City Collection
