New Royal Mail stamps feature the most famous designs in British postal history
Royal Mail has unveiled a new stamp collection that pays tribute to some of the most famous designs in British postal history, including the Penny Black.
First issued in 1840, this groundbreaking stamp was revolutionary as the world’s first adhesive postage stamp.
The new series also pays tribute to other classic subjects such as Penny Red, Penny Lilac and the 4d “Jubilee” from 1887.
The stamps show the development of British philately during the reign of Queen Victoria.
Master set of eight revived first-class stamps:
- Penny Black (1840)
- Twopenny Blue (1841), 6d embossed (1854) and 4d first letterpress print (1855)
- 1s small letters (1862) and Penny Red (1864)
- Penny Lilac (1881) and 4d “Jubilee” (1887).
Each stamp features a watermark image on the reverse side that reflects the original anti-counterfeiting design when first issued.
David Gold, Royal Mail’s director of external relations, said: “Each of these stamps is a miniature masterpiece. Taken together they tell the story of a communications revolution.”
“By revisiting these iconic designs, we honor the enduring legacy of Queen Victoria, the origins of the modern postal service and the timeless elegance of British stamps.”
The stamps and various collectibles will be available for pre-order starting today and will be available for general sale starting November 27.
