To mark the beginning of the new year, Hongkong Post announced Monday that it will issue its first set of special stamps "Year of the Rat" on January 11.

While on the day of "Spring Commences" - the 11th day of the first month on the lunar calendar which falls on Feb 4, the "24 Solar Terms - Spring" special stamp issue will be launched to herald the vibrancy of spring.

The issue dates of the two sets of special stamps contain six figures of the number "1". With the auspicious meanings it carries, Hongkong Post would like to take the opportunity to wish everyone all happiness, prosperity and every success in the year ahead.