The Vatican has issued its first official postage stamps featuring Pope Leo XIV, marking an early milestone in his papacy and offering collectors a highly anticipated philatelic release.
Issued May 27, the commemorative set includes four stamps depicting key moments from the new pontiff’s first public appearances earlier this month.
Two of the stamps show Pope Leo XIV during his inaugural blessing in St. Peter’s Square on May 8, when he was formally introduced to the world. The other two highlight the pope celebrating Mass in the Sistine Chapel on May 9 – an event rich in symbolism and tradition, marking the official beginning of his ministry. Each stamp includes the inscription “Leone PP. XIV” along with “Anno I S.P. MMXXV,” referencing the first year of his reign.
A total of 390,000 stamps were printed, and they are now available through the Vatican’s Philatelic and Numismatic Office. The issue also includes a special postmark depicting a simple line drawing of Pope Leo XIV waving to the crowd in St. Peter’s Square. The cancellation has been praised for its minimalistic style and connection to longstanding Catholic iconography.
Early reaction from collectors and religious philatelists has been strong, with many pointing to the historical significance of a new pope’s first philatelic appearance. The set continues the Vatican’s tradition of promptly commemorating papal transitions through stamps – blending spiritual representation with historic record-keeping.
For collectors of Vatican issues, papal memorabilia, or first-year philatelic items, the Pope Leo XIV release is expected to become a sought-after modern classic. The stamps serve not only as official postal products but also as symbolic keepsakes from the opening chapter of a new era in Catholic leadership.
Collectors interested in purchasing the Pope Leo XIV stamps can visit the Vatican’s Philatelic and Numismatic Office website at www.cfn.va. Please note that the online shop is currently undergoing a major overhaul and is expected to relaunch in early July. In the meantime, stamps are available at Vatican post offices, including locations in St. Peter’s Square and within the Vatican Museums.
Canadian collectors are advised to reach out to their local dealers who specialize in Vatican and Roman stamps. To search for dealers, visit the Canadian Stamp Dealers Association.