Coronation
Background
Plans for the Coronation of King Edward VIII on 12 May 1937, including a set of stamps, had to be aborted on news of the abdication on 11 December 1936. The Post Office was faced with two demands: new definitives for King George VI and an issue to celebrate his Coronation, still scheduled for 12 May. While unsure whether a Coronation issue was feasible, the Post Office invited Eric Gill to explore ideas, while Edmund Dulac submitted unsolicited designs.
The design process and issued stamp
Discussions with the stamp printers Harrison & Sons, revealed that a single stamp, 1½d, was possible. The King selected photographs by the Dorothy Wilding Studio, but these were not ideal for stamp reproduction, and Dulac was asked to prepare a design using hand-drawn interpretations of the photographs. Two designs were submitted, by Eric Gill, using portraits by court photographer Bertram Park, and by Dulac. Gill's design was also essayed with Dulac's drawn portraits.
The King preferred the Dulac design, but some minor alterations were needed, and the printers worked frantically to meet the deadline. The stamps were issued on 13 May, the day after Coronation, printed in brown with a tinge of violet. The first King George VI definitives were released the same day.
Online catalogue
- Illustrations
Unsolicited design by Edmund Dulac
Accepted design by Edmund Dulac
Essay of submitted design by E. Gill
1½d issued stamp
You may also be interested in...
Designs on Delivery
An online exhibition looking at our unique poster collection
From the 1930s the Post Office became a leader in poster design, commissioning Britain's best artists and designers.
Edward VIII stamps
Essays, artwork, drawings and issued stamps
Only four postage stamps were issued during Edward VIII's reign. Our collection contains a wealth of material.
Philatelic products
Browse our range of limited edition philatelic products
Choose from a selection of commemorative postcards and covers, and limited edition stamp sheets.
