Bhutan has issued a 4-stamp sheetlet to commemorate the upcoming 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China. Released in early May, 2008, the stamps feature archery, Bhutan’s national sport and part of the Olympics.

The face value of all four stamps is 75 NU or $1.92 USD in the following denominations: 2 stamps at 25 NU and one stamp each at 15 NU and 10 NU.

The 25 NU stamps each feature one of two legendary beasts from Bhutanese folklore: the phoenix and the dragon. Each is protecting the tools of the archer: bow, arrow and target.

The 10 NU stamp features an archer taking aim at a target.

The 15 NU stamp features an archer engaging in a dance traditionally performed after a teammate successfully hits the target.

The backgrounds of the 15 NU and 10 NU stamps depict colorful cloth in patterns worn in traditional dress by the Bhutanese women who cheer the archers on.

The stamps were designed by Creative Products International (Pittsburgh, PA, USA) and offset printed by Thai British Security Printers (Bangkok, Thailand). A special postmark is available, and collectors can mail covers to Bhutan Post. For more information, visit www.Bhutanpostagestamps.com.