Great Britain postage stamps year 1840 -1887 Queen Victoria

Great Britain postage stamps year 1840 -1887 Queen Victoria Used lot

Queen Victoria’s reign from 1837 to 1901 was marked by significant developments in the world of postage stamps in Great Britain. The period from 1840 to 1887 saw the introduction of several iconic stamps that reflect both the evolution of postal services and the artistic trends of the time.

Key Stamps Issued (1840-1887)

1. Penny Black (1840)

• Description: The world’s first adhesive postage stamp.
• Significance: Revolutionized the postal system by making it affordable for everyone to send letters.
• Design: Features a profile of Queen Victoria.

2. Two Penny Blue (1840)

• Description: Released shortly after the Penny Black, intended for heavier parcels.

3. Penny Red (1841)

• Description: Introduced to replace the Penny Black due to concerns over its potential for reuse.

4. Shilling Stamp (1847)

• Description: The first embossed stamp in Britain, showcasing a different design approach.

5. Half Penny Stamp (1870)

• Description: Noted for its controversial design, this stamp was less valuable but still significant in terms of postal history.

6. High Values Set (1883-84)

• Description: A colorful set including denominations such as 2/6, 5 shillings, and £1 stamps.

7. Jubilee Issue (1887)

• Description: Released to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, featuring twelve designs that celebrated her reign.

Collectibility and Historical Context

Queen Victoria stamps are highly sought after by collectors due to their historical significance and rarity. The early stamps, particularly the Penny Black, are considered foundational pieces in philately. Stamps from this era not only represent postal innovations but also reflect the broader socio-economic changes occurring during Victoria’s long reign, which included industrial expansion and the establishment of the British Empire.The Jubilee issue of 1887 is particularly notable as it marked the celebration of her fifty years on the throne, a significant milestone that further solidified her status as a symbol of British identity and continuity during a time of considerable change.Overall, stamps from this period are not just postal items; they are artifacts that encapsulate a pivotal era in British history. Collectors often seek these pieces not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their connection to Queen Victoria’s legacy and the evolution of postal communication