Hongkong Post announced Friday that a set of special stamps entitled "Year of the Horse" will be released for sale with associated philatelic products on January 11.

The Chinese zodiac, represented by 12 animals, is an integral part of traditional Chinese culture. With the Year of the Horse approaching, Hongkong Post is presenting the third Lunar New Year special stamp issue in the fourth series, featuring a set of four stamps portraying horses in different art forms. A silk stamp sheetlet is also being released to mark the joyous occasion.

In addition, Hongkong Post is releasing the second issue in the second series of "Gold and Silver Stamp Sheetlet on Lunar New Year Animals - Snake/Horse" to celebrate the Spring Festival which is scheduled on Jan. 31. The Snake stamp is hot-foiled with silver while the Horse stamp is affixed with 22K gold-plated lace metal. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, the stamp sheetlet makes a perfect collection.

Official First Day Covers for "Year of the Horse" and Official Souvenir Covers for the "Gold and Silver Stamp Sheetlet on Lunar New Year Animals -- Snake/Horse" will be on sale at 1.20 HK dollars each at all post offices from Dec. 28.