On 22nd August 1989, the Royal Mail introduced a revolutionary concept in postage: the Non Value Indicator (NVI) stamp. These stamps were a departure from the traditional format, where a specific monetary value was printed on each stamp. Instead, NVI stamps featured a service indicator—like "First Class" or "Second Class"—allowing them to be used regardless of future postal rate changes. This innovation offered flexibility and convenience, ensuring that customers could use their stamps even as postage costs increased over time.
Booklet HA1, the first issue of NVI stamps, released 22nd August 1989.
SG1449, the first NVI stamp issued inside booklet HA1.
The introduction of NVI stamps marked a significant shift towards the modern "Pricing in Proportion" system, which was fully implemented in 2006. This system changed the way postage was calculated, taking into account not just the weight of an item, but also its size and thickness. The aim was to create a more accurate and fair pricing structure, reflecting the true costs of handling different types of mail. This change made it easier for customers to understand postage costs and offered greater flexibility in mailing various items.
SG1669, an example of E (Europe) postage rate, no longer issued.
Over the past 35 years, NVI stamps have become an integral part of British postage, providing a simple solution to the problem of fluctuating postal rates. They have also gained popularity among stamp collectors, with designs ranging from the iconic profile of Queen Elizabeth II to special commemorative issues. NVIs have proven to be both practical for everyday use and worthy collectible items.
SG2359 with die cut backing, a rare and unusual NVI, and an example of a Worldwide rate NVI.
SG3337, an example of an NVI to commemorate the 2012 London Olympics.
In 2021, Royal Mail introduced the first Barcoded NVI stamp (read more about this here). This marked the beginning of a long plan to phase out Machin definitives from circulation, eventually making them invalid for postage. On 31st March 2022, Royal Mail opened their "swap out" scheme, encouraging holders of Machin definitives to surrender them to the Royal Mail in exchange for a new stamp with a barcode attached. As of today, you can no longer use these historic NVIs without barcodes for postage.
As we mark the 35th anniversary of these innovative stamps, we’re excited to offer our customers a special promotion on NVI stamps. To celebrate this milestone, we're giving you the chance to save on your purchases:
- Spend £20 and get 2% off
- Spend £50 and get 4% off
- Spend £100 and get 10% off
These discounts are valid on all stamps that are found in the NVI Machins category here. The discount will apply automatically at checkout.
This limited-time offer (ending 22nd August 2024) is the perfect opportunity to expand your collection. Whether you’re a seasoned philatelist or just starting to explore the world of stamp collecting, now is the time to take advantage of these savings.
NVI stamps represent a significant chapter in the history of British postage, blending practical innovation with collectible appeal. They’ve made sending mail easier and more flexible, while also paving the way for the Pricing in Proportion system that we rely on today. This anniversary is not just a celebration of a product, but of the evolution of the British postal system as a whole.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to celebrate 35 years of NVI stamps with us. Explore our range of NVI stamps and take advantage of these exclusive discounts before the promotion ends on 22nd August 2024.
Join us in commemorating this landmark anniversary and enjoy great savings on your next purchase!