The Singapore Story
Postal services commenced in Singapore in 1819, just after the founding of the island by Sir Stamford Raffles. Mail was delivered without stamps for the next 35 years. Postage stamps were used for the first time in Singapore in 1855 and they were Indian stamps issued by the East India company.
Singapore's postage stamps closely reflect her political history. The responsibility for postal services was transferred to the Straits Settlements in 1867, Japanese Millitary Administration in 1942, and the British Military Administration in 1945. In 1948, Singapore commenced issuing stamps bearing the inscription "Singapore", although she was still under British rule. Singapore became a new self-governing state on June 3 1959.
Today, Singapore is a modern city and the world's busiest port. She issues six to seven new issues of stamps a year. The stamps reflect the country's achievements, culture, heritage, flora and founa. From 1 July 1987, all Singapore stamps are imprinted with the National Lion Symbol.
