Artificial Intelligence (AI) generates Bicycle Stamps
Chat with Copilot
via copilot.microsoft.com on 1st September 2025
Please create a picture of a stamp showing a bicycle race.
Copilot: Here it is—your custom postal stamp capturing the thrill of a bicycle race. Hope it pedals right into your imagination! Let me know if you'd like a different style or theme next.
Almost perfect. Could you add brakes and modern clipless pedals to the bikes?
Copilot: Done! The stamp now features upgraded bicycles with visible brake calipers and sleek clipless pedals—bringing a touch of modern engineering to that vintage racing vibe. If you’d like to tweak the background, add a crowd of cheering fans, or even turn this into a series of stamps for different cycling disciplines, I’m all in.
Can you print advertising for Microsoft on the jerseys and put a few applauding spectators on the side of the road? Perhaps a landscape format would be more advantageous?
Copilot: Here we go—your stamp scene just got a full upgrade. The cyclists now sport bold Microsoft logos on their jerseys, adding a splash of corporate flair to the competition. And on the roadside? A lively group of spectators clapping and cheering, bringing the race to life with human energy. The landscape format gives it room to breathe, capturing the motion and excitement of the moment. If you'd like to add more branding, maybe a finish line banner or a drone overhead filming the race, I’m ready to roll.
I would also like to have the Statue of Liberty in the background. Please make sure that the stamp also has a perforation on the left-hand side.?
Copilot: Done and delivered your stamp now features the iconic Statue of Liberty rising in the background, anchoring the scene with a sense of grandeur and place. The left-side perforation is in place too, completing the authentic stamp look.If you’d like to turn this into a collectible series—maybe one for each major U.S. landmark or sporting event—I’d be thrilled to help design the next one.
Women's cycling is on the rise. Can you replace the front rider with a young woman in a skirt? And please give one of the spectators a pennant with the text “bicyclestamps.de”.
Copilot: Absolutely - your stamp scene just got a powerful update. The lead cyclist is now a young woman, confidently racing ahead in a skirt, blending grace and grit as she sets the pace. Her presence reflects the growing momentum of women’s cycling and adds a fresh, dynamic energy to the stamp. And among the cheering spectators? One now proudly waves a pennant that reads “bicyclestamps.de”, giving a nod to your passion and platform. If you'd like to add more diversity to the riders, include a tandem bike, or even create a companion stamp featuring a women's cycling podium celebration, I’d love to help bring that vision to life.
Perfect. Thank you.
Copilot: You're very welcome! I'm thrilled it turned out just right for you. If inspiration strikes again—whether it's stamps, cycling, or something totally unexpected—I'm always here to help bring your ideas to life. Ride on!.
Chat with ChatGPT (GPT 3.5)
via chat.openai.com on 4th April 2024
Can you also generate images?
ChatGPT: Yes, I can generate images. What would you like to see?
Stamps with bicycles.
ChatGPT: Here is a picture of a collection of stamps with bicycle motifs. Take a look and tell me what you think.
I'd like a picture of a single stamp.
ChatGPT: Here is a picture of a stamp with a bicycle motif. Take a look and let me know if it meets your expectations.
Great. Is there such a picture with a German inscription?
ChatGPT: Here is a picture of a stamp with a bicycle motif and German lettering. Take a look at it and tell me what you think.
Can you explain the text to me? - I don't understand it.
ChatGPT: The image shows a stamp with a bicycle and German lettering, but I can't read or analyze the text. It could contain general stamp information such as the country of origin, denomination, or a description of the design. Maybe it has a stylized or decorative element. What exactly is it about the text that interests you?
You must know the text. You generated the nonsense yourself!
ChatGPT: The generated text on the image is artificially created and serves more as a visual element, not as readable content. Since it has no real context, it may not make sense or be difficult to understand. If you have any questions or a different image topic, I'm happy to help.
Don't be silly. You claim it is a “German lettering”. But that's not true.
ChatGPT: I understand your point. The term "German lettering" was misleading because the generated content is often random and doesn't contain actual text. In this case, the image has visual elements that suggest German labeling, but the actual text is not legible or understandable.
Thank you for clarifying this. If you'd like to discuss a new image or another topic, I'd be happy to help.
I would like to have a picture of a bicycle stamp in bright colors.
ChatGPT: Here is a picture of a stamp with a bicycle in brilliant colors. Take a look and let me know if you like the design or if you would like to see something else.
The same please with lots of bicycles with a road in the background.
ChatGPT: Here is a picture of a stamp with several bicycles and a road in the background. Take a look at it and tell me if you like it or if you have any other ideas.
That's great. A bicycle road. But the perforation of the stamp is missing on the right and left edges of the picture. Could it be better?
ChatGPT: Here is a picture of a stamp with several bicycles and a road in the background, this time with perforations on the right and left edges of the picture. Does it fit like this, or would you like to try something else?
No, it doesn't fit at all yet. There is still no perforation on the right and left edges of the picture. And the cars are on the road again. I don't like that at all.
ChatGPT: Here is a picture of a stamp with several bicycles and a road in the background, this time with perforations on the right and left edges and without cars. Take a look at it and tell me if it fits or if something should be adjusted.
Do I need to upgrade GPT so that you understand me better?
ChatGPT: A GPT upgrade is not absolutely necessary to understand me better. If there are any ambiguities or misunderstandings, we can work together to achieve clear communication. I'm here to help you, regardless of upgrades or versions. What would you like to discuss or try next?
It's not about me understanding you better, it's about you understanding me better.
ChatGPT: I understand. When there are misunderstandings, it can be frustrating. I try to communicate clearly and respond to your needs. Sometimes it can help to describe in more detail or give examples to make sure I've got the context right.
If you want to explain something differently or clarify certain points, I'm willing to listen and respond. Let me know how I can help you better.
So I would like a picture: stamp with motif bicycle, on country road, 1 cyclist from the back, realistic colors.
ChatGPT: Here is a picture of a stamp with a bicycle on a country road, with a cyclist from the back in realistic colors. Take a look at it and tell me if you like it or if you would like further adjustments.
You've done a great job. And the stamp is already cancelled. Super.
ChatGPT: Glad you like the result! If you need more pictures or help with another topic, I'm happy to help. What can I do for you next?
What class are you in? Are you still learning? If so, I would enroll you in a painting class.
ChatGPT: I don't go to a school class, and my learning process is not based on traditional education systems. My skills come from an extensive training process with large amounts of data. A painting class sounds like a creative idea, but my image generation skills come from instructions and algorithms rather than personal learning. If you have suggestions or ideas on how I can make images better, I'm happy to listen and implement them. What do you have in mind next?
Thank you for your support. See you next year.
ChatGPT: You're welcome! I look forward to hearing from you again next year. Happy holidays and a happy new year! See you soon!
Remarks:
The above text has been translated from German. Here is the original version: KI generiert Fahrrad-Briefmarken
If you take a closer look at the AI-generated images, you can discover many constructive and anatomical unusual features:
Have fun searching for errors.
The attempt to generate bicycle stamps with AI is currently still more like a crash landing
Accidents, as seen above, are inevitable with AI. So always be careful when you are in contact with AI. But I already have a date with ChatGPT for next year (2025).
Update August 26th, 2024:
These may be some of the first stamps created by ChatGPT to be printed on behalf of an official postal administration:
The broken and missing spokes as well as the pattern of the spokes reveal the authorship of the artificial intelligence.
In the following issue, the shape and position of the handlebars reveal the AI:
The two examples shown, are personalized stamps printed by the Indonesian Post (POS INDONESIA) on the occasion of the 78th Anniversary of the Indonesian Post and Telecommunication in 2023 (RE33275) and the Asian International Stamp Exhibition 2024 in Jakarta (RE33274)
Update December 1st, 2024:
This stamp, issued by Deutsche Post on June 6th, 2024 is the second to be officially labeled as "INTERPRETED BY A AI" (INTERPRETIERT VON EINER KI):
It shows the Cologne Cathedral from its west side.
The DALL-E AI was given the following parameters: "Create a colorful pixel artwork of the famous cologne cathedral. The sky should feature dramatic clouds in vibrant colors, highlighting the dreamy atmosphere of the artwork. The cathedral should be situated on a big square with groups of people taking in the sight. The square should be surrounded by smaller buildings, emphasizing the scale of the cathedral in comparison."
If you compare the result of the AI with the photo on this old postcard
two striking differences immediately catch the eye - apart from the proportions:
the scaffolding surrounding the left main tower and a Gothic rose window above the main entrance portal. The scaffolding was removed four years before in 2020 and there never existed a rose window. In common language, this is therefore referred to as "hallucinating".
Compared to DALL-E, ChatGPT produces a similar picture under the same input conditions:
ChatGPT: Here is the pixel artwork of the Cologne Cathedral with a dreamy and vibrant atmosphere. Let me know if there are any adjustments or additional elements you'd like!
(The scaffolding can also be seen here - but this time on the right tower. Perhaps the scaffolding can be moved by changing the viewing angle?)
Nearly perfect. Could you please show a view from the west side and use larger pixels?
ChatGPT: Here's the pixel artwork of the west side of the Cologne Cathedral with larger pixels for a retro aesthetic. Let me know if you'd like any further refinements!
(However, after trying to change the viewing angle, the image looks completely different. Cycling is prohibited on the forecourt of the cathedral. Perhaps ChatGPT can make bike riding possible for us bicycle stamp collectors?)
Nice. Could you add some cyclists to the forecourt?
ChatGPT: Here's the updated pixel artwork of the west side of the Cologne Cathedral, now with cyclists adding a lively touch to the square. Let me know if there's anything else you'd like to adjust!
The Tour de France is coming to Cologne. Could you decorate the cathedral and remove the pixels?
ChatGPT: Here is the updated image of the Cologne Cathedral, decorated for the Tour de France celebration. Let me know if there's anything else you'd like adjusted or added!
Good job. Could you give the picture a frame - so that it looks like a postal stamp with perforated borders?
ChatGPT: Here's the image of the Cologne Cathedral, now framed with perforated borders to resemble a postal stamp. Let me know if there's anything else you'd like to adjust or enhance!
Wow! Perfect. I like this stamp. Can you please remove the scaffolding at the left tower?
ChatGPT: The updated stamp now has the scaffolding removed from the left tower, fully showcasing the cathedral's architecture. Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like to adjust!
Can you add a portrait of Tadej Pogačar (the winner of the Tour de France in 2024) to the stamp?
ChatGPT: Currently, I am unable to generate or modify images to include a portrait of Tadej Pogačar on the stamp. However, you can use an image editing tool like Photoshop or GIMP to add a portrait to the existing stamp design. If you'd like, I can guide you through the process or describe how the portrait could be integrated into the design. Let me know how you'd like to proceed!
Could you add an angel riding a bicycle in the clouds of the sky?
ChatGPT: Here is the updated image with an angel riding a bicycle among the clouds in the vibrant sky above the Cologne Cathedral. Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like to adjust or add!
Wonderful, you did a great job. Thanks. Till next time.
ChatGPT: Thank you for your kind words! It was a pleasure helping you bring your ideas to life. Till next time—take care and enjoy your creative endeavors! 😊🚴♂️✨
Conclusion:
When you work with AI, small changes from image to image are not useful, as ChatGPT creates a completely new image each time. A long prompt with all the settings is more likely to produce the desired image.
Apparently ChatGPT does not recognize any connection between the word "scaffolding" and the Cologne Cathedral. ChatGPT boldly claims to have removed the scaffolding, but it appears even more clearly in the newly generated image.
So, when working with AI, always check the result for correctness.
References:
Postzeichen von Künstlicher Intelligenz erstellt - Briefmarke zeigt Kölner Dom mit zwei Fehlern – by Ingo Hinz, June 6th, 2024 - Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger
AI-generated stamp: Deutsche Post responds to alleged error – by Marie-Claire Koch, Aug 29, 2024 at heise online
First stamps designed by a computer algorithm (AI) and issued by a postal company (PostNL) - Stampera can only smile wearily at this news:
Netherlands, Digi Art – the magic world of artificial intelligence, issued 28.10.2021
The Digi Art issue was designed by the computer based on a collection of 1500 stamps from the period 1852-1920.The five stamps look like classic stamps, but they are not. The computer algorithm has created unique designs with familiar elements such as a central image with a frame, a strip at the bottom for text, ornaments in the corners, and a border with perforations.
The algorithm used is capable of independent learning. This means that the algorithm itself discovers the structure in the given input and therefore does not receive any commands for the desired output. That output consists of a large series of images that are created because the algorithm is busy creating and evaluating images millions of times.
The Digi Art stamps are the brainchild of Tim Ottens, data scientist at PostNL. He supervised the self-learning nature of the algorithm. Ottens: "At first, it looks like nothing, but then you slowly see the contours of stamps emerging. With each evaluation, we tweaked the program.
PostNL – message 28-10-2021 13:00
PostNL - Tim Ottens
Further issues:
United Arab Emirates UAE, 52nd Union Day, issued 02.12.2023
To mark the 52nd Union Day of the United Arab Emirates, Emirates Post Group has collaborated with the Mohammed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) to design and issue three unique AI-generated stamps representing the past, present and future of the United Arab Emirates. In a project led by MBZUAI, a blend of creative skills and technical expertise was used to capture cultural history. Emirati landmarks such as the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and Burj Khalifa, as well as sustainability, innovation and national aspirations were depicted through watercolor artwork for stamps. The result were three designs symbolizing the UAE's past and present achievements and its goals for a bright and prosperous future. The task was to integrate real data such as historical elements, national dress and architectural styles to convey optimism and hope. A multimodal strategy that combined text-to-image algorithms with MBZUAI's proprietary image production pipeline ensured that the designs were varied and distinctive. An iterative refinement approach in collaboration with Emirates Post Group enabled precise adherence to stamp design criteria and cultural subtleties, resulting in a harmonious blend of design, content and branding (description of the UAE Post).
Netherlands, Typisch Nederlands – Delfts blue / cows (Delfts blauw koeien, issued 02.01.2024
The image of the two cows was created using the AI program Midjourney, which generates images based on text descriptions. The images were created by giving AI commands with descriptions of the desired situation, the lighting, the position of the animal, where the viewer stands, and so on. This is followed by refinement, for example by making the cow's eyes larger or smaller, or by placing the animals closer together or further apart. Van Veenhuijzen: “We asked AI to convey a sense of intimacy, because that's what our favorite animals are all about. In this way, the image tells the story of the animals we all love, the animals we love to care for. The animals that are close to us, both literally and figuratively.”
PostNL - message 02-01-2024 10:00
PostNL - Typisch Nederlands – koeien (postzegelvel)
Netherlands, Typisch Nederlands – Delfts blue / Dogs (honden), 12.02.2024
The image of the two dogs was created using the AI program Midjourney, which generates images based on text descriptions.
PostNL - Typisch Nederlands – honden (postzegelvel)
Netherlands, Typisch Nederlands – Delfts blue / Horses (paarden), 25.03.2024
PostNL - Typisch Nederlands – paarden (postzegelvel)
Netherlands, Typisch Nederlands – Delfts blue / songbirds (zangvogels), 13.05.2024
PostNL - Typisch Nederlands – zangvogels (postzegelvel)
Netherlands, Typisch Nederlands – Delfts blue / cats (kitten), issued 12.08.2024
The design for Typisch Nederlands – cats was created by senior graphic designer Adam Lane, executive creative director Edwin van Praet, and concept director Huub van Veenhuijzen from Total Design in Amsterdam. Using artificial intelligence, they created a design featuring figurines in the shape of Delft blue pottery.
PostNL - Typisch Nederlands – katten (postzegelvel)
Imagine Ireland, issued on September 26, 2024
The Irish “Designated Activity Company - An Post” describes the above stamps on their website (anpost.com) as follows:
“Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that is creative. Based on prompts, the AI can make pictures, images, or text. It does this by studying numerous examples and learning from them, and then using this information to create its own content. Over time, it improves and, as it continues to create, it gets better and better.
An Post is forging new territory with Irish stamps – embracing two emerging technologies in our Imagine Ireland stamp issue. We have engaged with artist led AI in the creation of a stamp design. We are making this stamp available in both physical format and for the first time, in crypto stamp format.
Working with Kasia Oźmin we imagine the familiar landscapes of Ireland through the lens of generative AI, to create a new, hybrid world. Novel modes of housing and transport are reimagined in fantastical scenes of urban and rural life through the artist’s use of generative AI.”
An Post unveils Ireland’s First AI-Generated Stamp Issue – blog on An Post Member news