These "top-up" stamps, issued in 2010, feature the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus).

Good to know

Pane of 50 "top-up" stamps worth 22¢ each
Use as a "top-up" to transform denominated stamps into current-rate domestic postage
Issued to delight collectors and increase appreciation and awareness of the monarch butterfly

About the monarch low value definitives

Monarchs symbolize metamorphosis for their ability to transform from caterpillars to adult butterflies through chrysalis. Similarly, this monarch 22-cent low-value definitive will transform your 63-cent stamp into the current domestic rate.

About the monarch butterfly

A long-distance traveller, the monarch butterfly leaves North America in late summer to migrate 4,000 kilometres over winter to the northwest of Mexico City. The return trip takes four generations. Monarchs are found in most parts of central and eastern Canada and have been spotted as far north as James Bay. Sadly, their numbers continue to decline each year due to habitat encroachment and the reduction of milkweed, their food of choice, from the use of herbicides. In fact, recent numbers reached a record low.

About the design

Designed and illustrated by Keith Martin, these playful stamps feature the monarch butterfly. Against a cerulean background painted to remind us of a serene sky, the monarch takes flight. Its intricately detailed wings boast vibrant orange hues, deep black patterns and delicate flecks of white. The insect's Latin name, Danaus plexippus, is printed in the top right corner. Dark edges fade into a unified border, framing the illustration and allowing the 50 stamps to blend into one another on the pane.

Product # 420022107

Monarch Butterfly: Low value definitive stamps (22¢) - pane of 50