Stamps issued by Great Britain from 1887 to 1960 cover a fascinating period of philatelic history, encompassing the late Victorian era, Edwardian period, both World Wars, and the early reign of Queen Elizabeth II. This period includes several notable issues and developments in British stamp design and production.
Victorian Era (1887 – 1901)
Key Issues:
- Jubilee Issue (1887-1900):
- Design: Issued to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. Featuring Queen Victoria’s profile in various colors and denominations.
- Colors and Denominations: Wide range of denominations from ½d to 1s, with multiple colors for each value.
Edwardian Period (1901 – 1910)
Key Issues:
- King Edward VII Issue (1902-1910):
- Design: Featuring King Edward VII’s profile. Simple, elegant design with clear denomination markings.
- Denominations: From ½d to £1, with high values (2s6d, 5s, 10s, and £1) being particularly sought after by collectors.
George V (1910 – 1936)
Key Issues:
- Downey Head Issue (1911-1913):
- Design: Named after the portrait by W. and D. Downey. The first definitive issue for King George V, featuring a side profile.
- Short-lived: Quickly replaced due to unpopularity.
- King George V Definitive Issues (1912-1936):
- Design: Classic side profile of King George V. Included multiple series like the “Profile Head” and “Photogravure” issues.
- Denominations: Comprehensive range, often with intricate details and varied color schemes.
- Seahorses High Values (1913-1939):
- Design: Iconic stamps featuring a depiction of Britannia riding a horse-drawn chariot through the sea.
- Denominations: High values (2s6d, 5s, 10s, £1), prized for their detailed engraving and beauty.
George VI (1936 – 1952)
Key Issues:
- King George VI Definitive Issues (1937-1952):
- Design: Featured a profile of King George VI. Issued in various series, including the dark colors of wartime issues.
- Denominations: Full range, from ½d to £1, including the high-value “Arms” series (10s and £1).
- Commemorative Issues:
- Examples: 1946 Victory Issue, 1948 Silver Wedding (high value), and 1951 Festival of Britain.
Early Elizabeth II (1952 – 1960)
Key Issues:
- Wilding Definitives (1952-1971):
- Design: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by photographer Dorothy Wilding.
- Denominations: Extensive range, commonly used, and several varieties in terms of watermark and phosphor bands.
- Commemorative Issues:
- Examples: 1953 Coronation Issue, 1957 46th Inter-Parliamentary Union Conference, and 1960 Tercentenary of the General Letter Office.
Key Features and Trends
- Design Evolution: The design of British stamps evolved from intricate and ornate Victorian designs to the more restrained and formal issues of the early 20th century, and finally to the more modern and photographic designs of the Elizabethan era.
- Technical Innovations:
- Printing Techniques: Advances in photogravure printing during George V’s reign allowed for more detailed and varied stamp designs.
- Security Features: Watermarks, perforations, and phosphor bands were introduced and evolved over time to enhance security and prevent forgery.
- Commemorative Stamps: While earlier issues were mostly definitive, commemorative stamps became more common, celebrating significant national events and anniversaries.
Collecting British Stamps (1887-1960)
- Condition and Rarity: The value of stamps from this period can vary significantly based on their condition (mint vs. used), rarity, and any unique features or errors.
- Notable Series: Collectors often focus on notable series like the “Seahorses,” high-value definitives, and early commemoratives.
- Historical Context: Each stamp reflects the historical and cultural context of its time, providing a rich tapestry of British history and monarchy.
British stamps from 1887 to 1960 offer a rich and varied field for philatelists, reflecting both the evolution of stamp design and the historical milestones of the United Kingdom during this period.
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