Set of 20 x $5.80 'Giant glass sponge and diver' gummed stamps
A scientific diver studies a giant glass sponge (Anoxycalyx joubini), a key habitat-forming species in Antarctic waters. These slow-growing organisms can reach significant size and persist for centuries, filtering large volumes of water and supporting complex ecosystems. Often described as forming “animal forests”, sponge communities such as this play an important role in structuring Antarctic benthic environments.
This stamp issue explores the unseen world beneath the Antarctic sea-ice. Click here for more information.
| Date of issue: | 4 November 2026 |
|---|---|
| Number of stamps: | Four |
| Denominations: | $3.60, $4.20, $4.90, $5.80. |
| Stamps and first day covers designed by: | Nick Jarvie, NZ Post, Wellington, New Zealand. |
| Printer and process: | Brebner Print, Napier by lithography |
| Number of colours: | Four process colours. |
| Stamp size and format: | 25mm x 50m (vertical) |
| Miniature sheet size and format: | 145mm x 90mm (horizontal) |
| First day cover size and format: | 205mm x 120mm (horizontal) |
| Paper type: | Tullis Russell red phosphor 106gsm |
| Number of stamps per sheet: | 20 |
| Perforation gauge: | 14 x 14.4 |
| Special blocks: | Plate/imprint blocks may be obtained by purchasing at least six stamps from a sheet. Barcode blocks are available in A and B formats. |
| Period of sale: | Unless stocks are exhausted earlier, these stamps and first day covers will remain on sale until 3 November 2027. |
