HONG KONG - Hongkong Post Wednesday announced that a stamp sheetlet marking the 170th anniversary of the Hong Kong postal service will be released for sale together with associated philatelic products on Aug 25.

The left-hand side of the "170th Anniversary of Hong Kong Postal Service" stamp sheetlet shows contrasting views of the General Post Office built in 1911 and the present one that became operational in 1976, and shows the Victorian pillar street posting box (cast between 1837 and 1901) juxtaposed with its modern-day version to denote the passage of time.

The globe and hummingbird logo on the right-hand side symbolize Hongkong Post's traditional strength derived from a wide variety of products and a comprehensive delivery network, while the postmarks used in 1841 and 2011 subtly underscore the 170th anniversary of the postal service.

Official first-day covers will be put on sale for 1 HK dollar ($0.13) each at all post offices effective from Aug 11.

The first post office was opened in Hong Kong on Aug 25, 1841, to provide a safe, reliable and affordable channel for personal or business communication.

Throughout the past 170 years, Hongkong Post has been overcoming countless operational difficulties and responding tenaciously to new challenges, living up to its purpose statement of "Linking People, Delivering Business".