Sydney (ANTARA News/AFP) - Australia launched a special stamp to commemorate Britain`s pending royal nuptials Monday, with a local and international issue featuring Prince William and his bride Kate Middleton.

Australia Post said it was "delighted" to celebrate the April 29 wedding with a special edition stamp showing a portrait of the couple after their engagement was announced.

"We trust this special stamp issue provides collectors and the public with a memento to mark this happy and historic event," said Australia Post chief Ahmed Fahour.

Formerly a British colony where Queen Elizabeth II is still head of state, Australia has already issued a special 50 cent coin to commemorate the royal wedding, designed by the Queen`s own goldsmith and jeweller.

Collectors can also buy an official Royal Wedding coin with the couple`s engagement photo in colour against a detailed sketch of Westminster Abbey, where they will wed.

The royal wedding will be keenly watched in Australia, where Prince William charmed thousands with a recent tour to flood-affected zones but which also harbours a keen republican sentiment.
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