Royal mail changing stamps

A fascinating topic!

Royal Mail, the postal service of the United Kingdom, has a long history of issuing stamps to commemorate various events, people, and themes. Over the years, the design and format of these stamps have undergone significant changes. Here are some key developments:

Early Years (1840-1914)

• The first adhesive postage stamps were introduced in 1840, featuring the portrait of Queen Victoria.
• Stamps were initially issued in sheets of 240, with each stamp featuring a different design.
• In the late 19th century, stamps began to feature various themes, such as British monarchs, explorers, and historical events.

Interwar Period (1918-1939)

• During this period, stamps became more colorful and featured a wider range of designs, including animals, flowers, and landmarks.
• The introduction of the "Wilding" series in 1929 marked a significant change in stamp design, with a more modern and simplified style.

Post-War Era (1945-1979)

• After World War II, stamps continued to feature a mix of themes, including monarchs, historical events, and cultural icons.
• The introduction of the "Machin" series in 1967 marked a significant change in stamp design, with a more minimalist and standardized approach.

Modern Era (1980-Present)

• In the 1980s, Royal Mail introduced a new range of stamps featuring more contemporary designs, including abstract art, architecture, and popular culture.
• The introduction of the "Prestige" series in 1993 marked a significant change in stamp design, with larger, more detailed stamps featuring intricate designs and special finishes.
• In recent years, Royal Mail has continued to innovate, introducing new stamp formats, such as the "Stamp Book" and "Stamp Sheet" series, which feature larger, more detailed designs.

Recent Changes

• In 2017, Royal Mail introduced a new range of stamps featuring a more modern and minimalist design, with a focus on simplicity and clarity.
• In 2020, Royal Mail launched a new "Stamp Format" series, featuring larger, more detailed stamps with special finishes and designs.

Overall, Royal Mail's stamps have undergone significant changes over the years, reflecting the evolving tastes and preferences of the public, as well as advances in printing technology and design techniques.