The strong, hard-working, patient and intelligent Ox is trotting towards the Rat to usher in the Lunar New Year of 2009. Three graphic illustrations of this reliable Ox are shown in this set of 3 stamps with denominations of 1st Local, 65c, and S$1.10.

There are a total of 12 animal signs in the Chinese calendar based on five cycles of 12 years each, with each cycle tempered by the five Chinese elements of Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth.

According to Chinese astrology and belief, the traits of these zodiac animals not only shape the personalities of people born under the respective sign but also their lives and events of the year. Being second of the 12 animal signs, those born in the year of the Ox are often said to be leaders, fearing neither responsibility nor risk.

They are persistent, observant and have remarkable memories. Famous personalities born in the Ox year include Walt Disney, Charlie Chaplin, Johann Sebastian Bach, Napoleon Bonaparte, Vincent van Gogh and Adolf Hitler.

A pack of hongbao featuring the Ox stamp design will be given with every purchase of the Zodiac Series - Ox Collector's Sheet.

Special Highlight: Offset Lithography with high reflective index transparent Hologram with morphing effect.