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Edward VII stamps

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Most Edwardian stamps used the same or similar frames around the portraits to those of the late Victorian period. In the BPMA collections we have a series of stamp-size trials with different portraits of the new monarch within existing frames. 

There are many colour trials of the various definitive stamp values. There are also registration sheets of all issued stamps. These are imperforate. Those overprinted for use in government departments or in British post offices overseas (Morocco Agencies, Bechuanaland Protectorate and the Levant) are perforated.

Image of Edward VII 10 shillings stamp

Example of an Edward VII high value, 10s stamp


Details of the registration sheets are in our online catalogue.

Special sheet format

A special sheet format was created for stamp booklets which were introduced in 1904. We have a registration sheet of this.

Tyrian Plum, 1910

Image of the unissued 2d Tyrian plum stampOne famous stamp which was not issued was the 2d Tyrian Plum of 1910. This is represented in the collection by:

  • a complete imperforate registration sheet
  • a perforated sheet with one stamp missing
  • a complete set of colour trials.

There is also the metal die for this stamp and its original metal box. We have the only metal plate that exists. It is an experimental letterpress one for the 1d value of 1911.

 

Low values

Image of Edward VII 1d stampWe also hold a collection of printing shades of the low value stamps. The image on the right is an example.

Access

The best way to see all our philatelic and postal history collections is by appointment with the Curator of Philately, Douglas Muir. To make an appointment, please call 020 7239 2570 or email info@postalheritage.org.uk.