Malta's long and unique heritage will be marked in the forthcoming issue of a Definitive Set of stamps by Maltapost yesterday. The set of 17 stamps tracks Malta's historical phases and milestones by depicting their related iconic images.

Each image has been chosen to represent a landmark period or event in the history of Malta. From artifacts dating back to the Pleistocene period to photography that records Malta's accession to the EU, each image on the stamps offers a comprehensive insight into our islands' history.

"This remarkable set of stamps offers a philatelic and historical timeline while also confirming that a small postage stamp can succinctly tell a major story," said Joseph Said, chairman, Maltapost plc.

To celebrate this new Definitive Set, Maltapost, in collaboration with Midsea Books Ltd, is publishing a book titled The Historical Collection - Celebrating Malta's Heritage Through Stamps. The book, also to be released tomorrow, narrates Malta's history through a number of essays by specialist historians.

A uniquely-numbered souvenir sheet bearing the 17 stamps will also be included in the first 2,500 numbered copies of this publication. Both the Souvenir Sheet as well as the book will bear a matching number. The set has been designed by Edward D. Pirotta and Paul Psaila and each stamp measures 44mm x 31mm with perforations of 13.9 x 14.0 (comb). They are printed on watermarked paper by Printex Limited.

The stamp issue and book are available from all Maltapost branches or by e-mail: philately@maltapost.com. The book is also available from Midsea Books outlets. Additional information on this and other issues is available on the Maltapost website www.maltapost.com.