Postage Stamps of England

Historical Overview

England, as part of the United Kingdom, has a rich history of postage stamps that began with the world’s first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black. This overview will cover key periods and notable issues in the history of English postage stamps.

The Birth of the Postage Stamp (1840)

  • Penny Black: The world’s first adhesive postage stamp, issued on May 1, 1840, and valid for use from May 6, 1840.
  • Design: Featured a profile of Queen Victoria, based on a medallion by William Wyon. The Penny Black set the standard for stamp design and security.
  • Value: One penny, sufficient to send a letter weighing up to half an ounce anywhere in the United Kingdom.
  • Two Pence Blue: Issued shortly after the Penny Black, on May 8, 1840.
  • Design: Similar to the Penny Black but in a blue color and valued at two pence.

Mid-19th Century Developments

  • Red Penny: In 1841, the Penny Black was replaced by the Penny Red to address issues with cancellation visibility.
  • Design: Featured the same image of Queen Victoria, but in red, making cancellations more visible.
  • Cancellation Marks: Various types of cancellations were introduced, including the Maltese Cross and numerical obliterators.
  • Surface-Printed Issues (1855-1901): A series of stamps printed using surface printing techniques, featuring intricate designs and various values.
  • Notable Issues: High-value stamps, such as the £1 brown lilac and £5 orange, often used for parcel and telegraph services.

Edwardian Era (1901-1910)

  • King Edward VII: Following the death of Queen Victoria in 1901, new stamps featuring King Edward VII were issued.
  • Design: Depicted the King’s profile in a similar style to the Victorian issues but with updated designs and colors.

Georgian Era (1910-1936)

  • King George V: Reign marked by the introduction of new stamp designs, including the popular “Seahorses” series.
  • Seahorses (1913-1939): High-value definitive stamps featuring a dramatic image of Britannia on a chariot pulled by seahorses.
  • Other Issues: Various definitive and commemorative stamps, including the “Royal Cypher” and “Block Cypher” issues.

Modern Stamps (1936-Present)

  • Definitive Issues: Featured the King’s profile and various thematic designs.
  • Commemorative Issues: Stamps commemorating significant events, such as the 1937 Coronation.
  • Queen Elizabeth II (1952-Present): The longest-reigning monarch in British history, with numerous stamp issues over the decades.
  • Wilding Series (1952-1967): The first definitive stamps featuring the Queen’s portrait by photographer Dorothy Wilding.
  • Machin Series (1967-Present): Iconic definitive stamps designed by Arnold Machin, featuring a sculpted profile of the Queen. Known for their simplicity and longevity, these stamps have been in continuous use with various updates and new colors.
  • Commemorative Stamps: Extensive range of stamps celebrating cultural, historical, and scientific achievements, as well as royal milestones and anniversaries.

Also see:
British Post abroad