The United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA) is proud to introduce UN Crypto Stamps, a groundbreaking fusion of traditional stamp collecting and blockchain technology. This innovative initiative supports the UN Secretary-General’s strategy on embracing new technologies and was developed in collaboration with the United Nations Office of Information and Communications Technology.
The UN Crypto Stamps are available in three denominations: $7.75, CHF 8, and €7. Each stamp features a distinctive design showcasing the UN Headquarters Buildings in New York, Geneva, and Vienna. The stamps were printed by Royal Joh. Enschedé of The Netherlands, with a total print run of 90,000 stamps, evenly distributed across the three denominations.
A unique feature of these stamps is the inclusion of a hidden scratch-off area on each sheet, containing a secret code. This code allows the owner to activate a digital counterpart of the stamp on the blockchain, creating a digital collectible. The management of these digital stamps – including their creation, ownership, exchange, and trading – is facilitated through a smart contract on the Ethereum blockchain.
The UN Crypto Stamps series boasts 51 variations, with each sheet highlighting one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Collectors are encouraged to seek out all 51 variations to complete their collection. For more detailed information on how UN Crypto Stamps function, visitors can access the dedicated website at crypto.unstamps.org.
These innovative stamps are exclusively available for purchase through the UNPA. Enthusiasts can buy them online at unstamps.org or visit the United Nations stamp shops located in New York, Geneva, and Vienna. For any inquiries or further information, the UNPA can be contacted via email at unpainquiries@un.org or by telephone on 800-234-UNPA (8672). Interested parties can also follow the UNPA on various social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
The United Nations Postal Administration operates under the Department of Operational Support. More information about DOS is available on their website, and they can be followed on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram as well.