In the run-up to Valentine’s Day on 14 February, Swiss Post is issuing a “Kiss” stamp on 1 February. In the shape of puckered lips, it’s not just ideal for love letters, but all kinds of warm and affectionate messages.

The Feast of St Valentine – a figure believed to represent various Christian martyrs – was established as a church festival in 469 and has been associated with romantic love since the 14th century. Lovers in England have declared their passion on this date since the 18th century. The tradition spread from there, initially within English-speaking countries and then throughout the world, partly due to the stationing of US soldiers.

What’s more romantic than a love letter? The new special stamp was created in the form of a kiss with a heart in the middle to give lovers a fitting way of franking their message. To achieve the desired effect, Zurich-based illustrator Isabelle Bühler firstly made the mouth from paper and then photographed it digitally from the right angle.

These self-adhesive stamps are perfect for sending correspondence such as wedding invitations.