Philatelic Bureau - Our History

The Philately Bureau is responsible for the publishing and release of stamps for circulation and use. Though the usage of postal stamps has been widely prevalent in the island since 1857 the Philatelic Bureau came into being only on the 1^st of January, 1967; 19 years after we gained independence in 1948.

From our humble beginnings we have come a long way. The Bureau is solely responsible for the release of stamps in Sri Lanka; be they be for regular use, to mark a significant event locally or internationally or a commemorative issue we at the Bureau takes care of the procedure to issue stamps conforming to the Stamp Issue policy.

The Philatelic Bureau follows a very responsible stamp issuing policy. The Policies are formulated, ratified in Parliament and then only implemented. Currently certain amendments have been proposed and are awaiting ratification from the State.  

About 35 commemorative and special stamps are issued each year based on varied themes relevant to Sri Lanka or on matters of International significance. They are released in denominations ranging from Rs. 5.00 to Rs. 100.00.  Stamps are withdrawn from sale for destruction on a date prior advised. Stamps are usually sold at their face value.

If you have any questions or queries, please visit the nearest Post Office for assistance.