Stamp collecting, or philately, has long been a beloved hobby for people of all ages. From the earliest adhesive postage to today’s modern designs, Great Britain stamps represent an incredible journey through the country’s rich history and culture. This guide is crafted to help both beginners and seasoned collectors understand the world of British stamps, including how to get started, the history behind different stamps, and tips for building a collection from Queen Victoria stamps to the present day.
A Fascinating History of GB Stamps
The story of GB stamps begins in 1840 with the creation of the world's first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black. Designed to simplify postal rates and democratise mail access, the Penny Black featured a profile of Queen Victoria, inspired by the bas-relief of her likeness used on early British coinage. This stamp wasn't just a practical innovation; it became a global symbol of progress, innovation, and communication.
An example of an 1840 Penny Black, the first adhesive stamp, cancelled with a Red Maltese Cross.
From Queen Victoria stamps to those issued under Queen Elizabeth II and now King Charles III, the evolution of British postage stamps offers a remarkable reflection of Britain's changing face through the years. Let’s dive into the key moments and unique features that make GB stamps so collectible.
The Early Era: Queen Victoria Stamps
The Penny Black was the first stamp issued in the world, and it is widely regarded as the starting point for most collectors interested in British philately. Although over 68 million copies of the Penny Black were produced, its short period of usage (1840-1841) makes it a highly sought-after item for collectors. It was soon replaced by the Penny Red, which had a similar design but was easier for postmasters to identify when cancelled. Additionally, the Two Pence Blue was issued, providing a higher postage value option.
(1) A Two Pence Blue issued as a higher value alternative to the Penny Black. (2) A One Penny Red from 1841, a change of colour to make postmarks more visible.
Stamps issued during Queen Victoria's reign feature various notable changes. One of the most important features is the introduction of watermarks and different perforation varieties. These details were significant, as they helped prevent stamp forgery and also provide collectors with unique points of distinction today.
Early examples of stamps with perforations, with a clearly visible watermark.
The Victorian era also saw the introduction of more complex designs, like those found in the surface-printed issues starting from 1855. These stamps varied greatly in value and purpose, with denominations ranging from one-half penny to one pound. The different printings and shades provide a rich hunting ground for any collector interested in British philately.
A set of surface printed Queen Victoria Jubilee stamps. Note the multiple colours and more detailed designs.
The Edwardian and Georgian Issues
After Queen Victoria's death in 1901, King Edward VII ascended the throne, and stamps featuring his portrait were issued starting in 1902. These stamps showcased a less elaborate design compared to the Victorian issues, as the focus shifted to a more regal and direct representation of the monarch. Although Edward VII's reign was brief, the stamps from this period are highly sought after for their simplicity and elegance.
An Edward VII £1 Green stamp.
King George V, who reigned from 1910 to 1936, was a philatelist himself, and this passion influenced the stamps issued during his reign. One of the notable series from this era was the Seahorse high-value definitives, which were first introduced in 1913. These stamps depicted Britannia riding a horse, with denominations ranging from 2s 6d to £1. The Seahorse issues are considered among the finest British stamps in terms of design and production quality.
1934 Sea Horses.
During King George VI's reign, starting in 1936, the stamps saw the introduction of symbolic imagery, such as national flowers and emblems. The stamps issued during World War II are particularly interesting for collectors because of their historical context and the political messages they conveyed, demonstrating Britain’s resilience during a tumultuous time.
1937 Coronation of King George VI Commemorative Stamp.
Queen Elizabeth II: The Longest Reign in British Stamp History
Queen Elizabeth II’s reign saw the most extensive series of GB stamps issued, both in terms of volume and variety. The Wilding series, introduced in 1952, featured a portrait of the young queen taken by Dorothy Wilding. These stamps were the first definitive series for Queen Elizabeth II and remained in use until the Machin series took over in 1967.
An example of the Wilding design. Shown here are graphite lines on the reverse of the stamp, an experimental and short lived security feature.
The Machin definitives, named after sculptor Arnold Machin, are among the most iconic and enduring British stamps. These stamps feature the profile of Queen Elizabeth II, taken from a bas-relief designed by Machin. The simplicity of this design, with the queen's profile set against a plain-colored background, has made it instantly recognisable. The Machin series has remained in use for over five decades, with numerous changes made to color, value, perforation, and security features over the years.
A barcoded Machin defintiive. The first issued example of a stamp with barcodes that we see on all new definitives today.
Commemorative stamps also became increasingly common during Elizabeth II's reign, starting with the 1953 Coronation commemorative set and continuing to celebrate notable events, personalities, and cultural icons. Commemorative issues provide collectors with fascinating insights into the history and values of Britain, as each series captures a unique aspect of the country's heritage.
1953 Queen Elizabeth II Coronation, the first commemorative set issued under the new monarch.
How to Start Collecting GB Stamps
For those looking to learn how to start collecting GB stamps, the best advice is to start simple. A good beginner’s collection might focus on commemorative stamps or definitive issues from a particular reign, like those from Queen Victoria, King George V, or Queen Elizabeth II.
- Set a Focus: It’s easy to become overwhelmed with the sheer volume of British postage stamps available. Start by focusing on a specific era or theme that interests you. For instance, you might choose to collect all issues from Queen Victoria’s reign or focus on commemorative stamps featuring famous British landmarks.
- Gather Tools of the Trade: To collect and preserve your stamps, you’ll need a few basic tools. A stamp album is essential for storing and organising your collection, while stamp tweezers allow you to handle the stamps without causing damage. A magnifying glass is useful for identifying small details, like watermarks and perforations.
- Learn to Catalogue: Stamp cataloguing is an essential part of collecting. A good stamp catalogue, such as the Stanley Gibbons GB Concise Catalogue, provides valuable information on each stamp’s issue date, printing details, and estimated value. Cataloguing your collection helps you keep track of what you have, what you’re missing, and what each piece is worth.
Rare GB Stamps to Collect
The allure of rare GB stamps is a major attraction for collectors. The rarity of a stamp is often determined by factors like production errors, limited print runs, or historical context.
Penny Black (1840): Although millions were printed, its historical significance as the world’s first postage stamp makes it highly collectible. The Penny Black is particularly valuable if it’s in mint condition or features rare plate numbers.
Plate 77 Penny Red: The Penny Red, which replaced the Penny Black, was printed with multiple plate numbers. The Plate 77 Penny Red is one of the rarest stamps in British philately due to errors during production, making surviving examples extremely valuable.
Edward VII Tyrian Plum: Only a small number of the Tyrian Plum stamps were produced in 1910, just before the death of King Edward VII. Most of the stamps were destroyed after his death, leaving just a few surviving examples.
King George V Seahorse Issues: These high-value stamps were printed in several different colors and paper types between 1913 and 1939. Collectors look for variations in printing and condition, as some versions are rarer and more valuable than others.
Machin Errors: The Machin definitives have been issued with numerous color, perforation, and printing errors over the years. These errors are highly collectible because they often exist in very small numbers.
Philately: The Study and Art of Stamp Collecting
Philately goes beyond simply collecting stamps; it’s the study of stamps and postal history. Philatelists often research the stories behind the stamps, examining printing methods, designs, postal routes, and historical significance. This deeper appreciation transforms a collection of paper into a meaningful archive that tells the story of a country and its culture.
For instance, examining British postage stamps from World War II reveals much about Britain’s resilience and propaganda efforts. The 1940 Centenary of the Penny Black series was released to remind people of Britain’s leadership in postal reform—a symbol of stability during uncertain times.
For some, the joy of philately is in stamp value guides and evaluating the worth of a collection, while for others, it’s about exploring the narratives and connections between different issues. Whatever the focus, philately remains one of the most rewarding hobbies due to its combination of research, collection, and historical exploration.
Tips for Building Your GB Stamp Collection
Condition Matters: The condition of a stamp plays a significant role in its value. Stamps in mint condition—unused and with original gum—are usually more valuable than those that have been used, when considering older issues. However, some used stamps can be highly collectible if they have a rare or interesting postmark. When considering issues in the modern era, with dwindling postal letter volumes, Very Fine Used examples tend to command a higher selling price than mint stamps due to their rarity.
Specialise for Depth: While it’s tempting to collect all GB stamps, many collectors find it more rewarding to specialise. You might focus on Queen Victoria stamps, stamps depicting British royalty, commemorative issues from a specific decade, or Machin definitives. Specialising allows you to gain in-depth knowledge, making your collection more meaningful. Once you have completed your collection of one specific area, you can then focus on the next topic, ensuring that your collection is well curated and intriguing.
Network with Other Collectors: Joining a local stamp club or philatelic society is a great way to learn more about British philately and meet other enthusiasts. Exchanging stamps with others, attending exhibitions, and learning from experienced collectors are excellent ways to expand your knowledge and collection.
How to Assess the Value of British Stamps
The value of GB stamps is influenced by several factors, including rarity, age, condition, and demand. Here are some aspects to consider:
Age and Rarity: As a general rule, older stamps are rarer and more valuable. However, scarcity alone doesn’t determine value; there must also be demand for the stamp. For instance, Queen Victoria’s Penny Black is iconic, but it’s less rare than other Victorian issues, which can still make it more valuable.
Condition: The state of a stamp dramatically affects its value. Stamps that are centered well, free of flaws, and have intact perforations or original gum are considered higher quality.
Demand: Certain stamps are popular with collectors, which can drive up prices. Issues like the King George V Seahorse series are often more valuable because of their historical interest and design quality.
Errors and Varieties: Stamps with printing errors, color variations, or unusual perforations can be worth significantly more.
Having a stamp value guide on hand, such as the Stanley Gibbons GB Concise Catalogue, will help you assess the approximate value of your collection. However, the market value can vary significantly, so seeking the expertise of a philatelic dealer is always a good idea when you want an accurate valuation.
Understanding Stamp Types: Definitives vs. Commemoratives
As you grow your collection, understanding the different types of stamps is crucial. British stamps can generally be divided into two broad categories: definitive and commemorative.
Definitive Stamps: These are the workhorses of the postal system, issued in various denominations and designed for long-term use. The Machin definitives are the most recognisable British definitives, in circulation since 1967. The series features a profile of Queen Elizabeth II in relief, and variations in color, denomination, and printing methods provide a wealth of material for specialised collections.
Commemorative Stamps: These stamps are issued to celebrate specific events, anniversaries, or notable individuals. From the 1966 World Cup winners to the Royal Wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, commemorative stamps offer rich visual and thematic variety for collectors. Each commemorative issue is typically printed for a limited period, which often makes them more collectible compared to definitives.
Cataloguing Your Collection
Keeping an organised catalogue is key to building a successful stamp collection. A catalogue helps you keep track of what you have, what you’re missing, and provides a record for insurance or valuation purposes.
There are several ways to organise your collection:
Chronologically: Many collectors arrange their collection by the chronological order in which the stamps were issued. This provides a historical journey through GB stamps, from Queen Victoria to the present day.
By Theme: Thematic collecting is growing in popularity. Instead of focusing on one era, you could collect stamps featuring a specific theme, such as British Royalty, famous landmarks, flora and fauna, or transportation.
By Type: You might choose to collect specific types, such as all definitive issues, commemoratives, or errors and varieties. This can lead to a highly specialised collection.
Using digital tools, such as stamp collection apps, can also make cataloguing more efficient and allow you to share your collection easily with other philatelists.
Joining the Philatelic Community
Collecting stamps is a rewarding hobby, but it becomes even more enjoyable when you’re part of a community. In the UK, several organisations and clubs can help you connect with other collectors and deepen your understanding of British philately.
The Royal Philatelic Society London (RPSL): Established in 1869, this is the oldest philatelic society in the world. Membership provides access to valuable resources, including the society’s extensive library, expert opinions on stamp authenticity, and regular exhibitions.
The British Philatelic Trust: This organisation supports the promotion of philately across the UK. They organise educational events, exhibits, and research publications that can be beneficial to both beginners and advanced collectors.
Local Stamp Clubs: Joining a local stamp club can offer a wealth of benefits, including trading opportunities, shared advice, and a support network of fellow enthusiasts. Clubs often organise stamp shows and auctions, which are excellent opportunities to grow your collection.
Collecting GB Stamps Today
The modern era of British stamps continues to evolve, reflecting both technological advancements and contemporary culture. With the reign of King Charles III, collectors can look forward to a new series of stamps featuring his profile, which will add a fresh chapter to the long history of GB stamps.
Self-adhesive stamps, introduced in 1993, were a significant innovation, making stamps more convenient for everyday users. Modern commemorative issues celebrate everything from British pop culture to environmental themes, such as the 2020 Endangered Species series. These contemporary issues not only commemorate events but also provide social commentary, reflecting the evolving values of British society.
The Lasting Appeal of GB Stamps
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned philatelist, the world of GB stamps offers endless opportunities for exploration, learning, and connection. From the simple beauty of the Penny Black to the complex designs of the Machin definitives and the cultural richness of modern commemoratives, British stamps tell a unique story of the country’s history, art, and people.
The combination of artistry, history, and the thrill of the hunt makes stamp collecting an enduringly popular hobby. By following this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped with the knowledge to start—or expand—your own collection of British stamps, and to enjoy the rich rewards that come with being part of a centuries-old tradition.