Non-cancelled stamp issue "150 Years of Seed Testing in Poland" 

Catalogue number: 5536 
Issue date: 13-10-2026 

On 13 October 2026, Polish Post issued the commemorative stamp issue “150 Years of Seed Testing in Poland”, marking the anniversary of laboratory seed evaluation on Polish lands and honoring the achievements of generations of scientists, analysts and specialists involved in seed quality assessment. The origins of seed quality testing in Poland date back to 1876. For one hundred and fifty years, seed testing laboratories have played a crucial role in the development of agriculture by improving testing methods and ensuring the quality of seed material, which forms the foundation of crop production. Their work directly influences crop yields, the development of the seed sector and the food security of the country. The issue pays tribute to all those who have contributed over the past century and a half to the creation and development of high standards of seed testing in Poland.

The stamp depicts germinating seeds, symbolizing the beginning of plant life and the first stage of agricultural production. The germination motif refers both to the biological start of plant development and to the long tradition of laboratory testing of germination capacity and seed quality. The photograph emphasizes the importance of science and modern laboratory methods in ensuring the quality of seed material used in agriculture.

The stamp was designed by Adam Kultys, and the photograph used in the design was taken by Maria Szołdra, an employee of the Voivodeship Inspectorate of Plant Health and Seed Inspection in Katowice.

The sheet consists of 6 postage stamps arranged in a 3 × 2 layout. The repeated image of germinating seeds creates a symbolic narrative about the continuity of scientific work carried out by successive generations of seed analysts and laboratory specialists. The design is maintained in natural shades of green, white and earth tones associated with plant growth, fertile soil and the cycle of life. The composition highlights the fact that every healthy seed is the beginning of future harvests and at the same time the result of the efforts of laboratories, control institutions and the scientific community.

The anniversary highlights the importance of laboratories that have supported modern agriculture since the late nineteenth century. The issue emphasizes the importance of cooperation between the scientific community, public administration, seed testing laboratories, institutions responsible for seed certification and supervision. This collaboration ensures continuity of expertise while supporting further development of the Polish seed sector.

The anniversary message expresses this idea clearly:“Let us take care of seed quality – the future of crops and food security begins with seeds.”

Polish Post sincerely thanks the State Plant Health and Seed Inspection Service for providing graphic materials and substantive support in preparing the philatelic issue “150 Years of Seed Testing in Poland”. Thanks to this cooperation, it was possible to create an issue highlighting the vital importance of seed testing for Polish agriculture and national food security.