Slovakia showcases butterfly collection in new nature protection stamp issue

By Linn’s Staff

Slovakia’s latest entry in its ongoing Nature Protection series honors one of the nation’s most significant entomological collections. Issued June 6, the stamp highlights the butterfly collection housed at the Central Slovak Museum in Banska Bystrica and pays tribute to the pioneering work of Slovak entomologist and ethnologist Jan Patocka.

The single €3.50 stamp is issued in a souvenir sheet format of one with a perforated label next to it. The souvenir sheet features detailed illustrations of native butterfly species from the museum’s extensive collection.

This new stamp issue marks the 100th anniversary of Patocka’s birth. Throughout his career, Patocka focused on the natural development of butterfly species in their native environments. He is remembered for advocating against the use of chemical pesticides in forests, instead promoting ecological approaches to pest control. His legacy continues through the museum’s preserved collection and his published work on caterpillar rearing and chrysalid development.

The stamp was designed and printed by Tiskarna Hradistko, s.r.o. and measures 44.4 millimeters by 54.4mm. It was printed using engraving and offset techniques. A first-day cover and a maximum card were also created in conjunction with the release.

Collectors interested in nature-themed issues, Lepidoptera (butterfly and moth) topics, or Eastern European philately will find the stamp a noteworthy addition. It continues Slovakia’s tradition of spotlighting national biodiversity and scientific heritage through thoughtfully designed postage.

For more information and to purchase the stamp, visit Slovak Post online.

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