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Switzerland

Stamps issued: 1850-PRESENT

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30-centime Cervin single

A land-locked federation in central Europe, situated between France, Germany, Austria and Italy. The country has three official languages: German, French and Italian. The nucleus of modern Switzerland appeared in the late 13th century, and in 1648, the Confederation became independent. Switzerland has not been involved in a foreign war since 1515 and, learning the lesson of Napoleon's seizure of the country, has since 1815 maintained a policy of armed neutrality. Switzerland has no military alliances and does not belong to the United Nations, although it participates in a number of U.N. programs and has U.N offices in Geneva. In 1986 the Swiss electorate rejected membership in the United Nations but in 1992 approved application to the European Union. The stability of the Swiss government and economy and of the Swiss franc — along with Switzerland's policy of banking secrecy – has made the country one of the world's financial centers.

Narrative by Linn's Stamp News

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40s World Intellectual Property Organization emblem single
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40-centime World Soccer Championships single
 

ZÜRICH
Stamps issued: 1843-1850

A canton of Switzerland that issued a number of stamps prior to the release of general Swiss issues in 1850.

Narrative by Linn's Stamp News

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4r Zurich cantonal issue single
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6r Zurich cantonal issue single
 

GENEVA
Stamps issued: 1843-1851

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5c envelope stamp used as an adhesive single

A canton of Switzerland, almost surrounded by France. Geneva issued several stamps, which were used until the issue of national Swiss stamps in 1850.

Narrative by Linn's Stamp News

 

BASEL
Stamps issued: 1845

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2 1/2r Basel Dove single

Capital of the canton of the same name, in northern Switzerland. Basel is situated on the Rhine and borders on both France and Germany. In 1845 the famous "Basel Dove" was issued. Now regarded as one of the most beautiful of the classic issues, the stamp was not popular among the townspeople and was soon withdrawn.

Narrative by Linn's Stamp News

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