Great Britain King George V 1905/1920 Used lot – colonies

The Great Britain stamps from the reign of King George V (1910-1936) produced between 1905 and 1920 are significant collectibles in philately. Here is an overview of the notable issues from this period:

Key Stamp Issues

1. Downey Head Issues (1911-1912): These stamps feature the profile of King George V based on a photograph by W. & D. Downey. The first stamps were issued in 1911 and were available in various denominations from ½d to 1s. These issues are well-regarded for their intricate engraving and historical significance as the first definitive stamps of King George V’s reign.
2. Profile Head Issues (1912-1924): The “Profile Head” series, also known as the “Mackennal series,” includes stamps designed by Bertram Mackennal. These stamps were printed using a variety of methods, including surface printing and photogravure, and included several different watermark varieties. They cover a wide range of denominations and are notable for their durability and the breadth of their production.
3. Seahorses (1913-1939): Among the most iconic stamps of King George V’s era are the high-value “Seahorses” stamps, issued from 1913 onwards. Designed by Bertram Mackennal and engraved by J.A.C. Harrison, these stamps were available in denominations of 2s6d, 5s, 10s, and £1. They are prized for their detailed artwork and were printed by various methods over the years.

Collectibility and Value

The value of these stamps varies based on their condition, rarity, and specific issues. For instance:

• The Downey Heads can range from a few dollars to several hundred, depending on their condition and rarity.
• Seahorses, especially in mint condition, can fetch high prices at auctions and from collectors, often ranging into the hundreds or even thousands of dollars for rare variants or high-quality examples.

Notable Auction Results

In recent philatelic auctions, items like the “Seahorses” have achieved significant prices, reflecting their continued demand and collectible status. For instance, at Schuyler J. Rumsey Philatelic Auctions, high-quality examples of these stamps have been sold at notable prices, underscoring their value among collectors​