United Kingdom year 1937- 39 George VI stamps

United Kingdom year 1937- 39 George VI stamps

The United Kingdom issued its first definitive stamp series featuring King George VI in 1937, which was then updated and expanded in 1939. Here are some key details about these early George VI stamp issues:

1937 Issue:

• First definitive series after accession of George VI in 1936
• Photogravure printing by Harrison & Sons
• Designs featured uncrowned profile portrait of the King
• Denominations from 1⁄2d to 1 shilling in various colors

1939 Issue:

• Two new values added: 21⁄2d and 3d
• Introduction of darker colors for some values
• New perforation gauge of 15×14 introduced
• Printing methods expanded to include typography and rotary photogravure

Watermark: The 1937 and 1939 issues used the simple “GVI” cypher watermark repeatedly across the sheet.

Usage: These stamps saw extensive use for postal rates in Britain and across the British Empire through World War II.

The 1937-39 George VI definitives marked the transition from the long reign of stamps featuring George V to the new monarch’s profile. While relatively uniform designs, the stamps are popular with collectors for their historic significance ushering in the new king’s effigies. Used examples on cover from WWII periods are also avidly collected, especially censored or airmail usages. High value and shade varieties are also pursued by specialists.