Lions, Leopards, Unicorns & Dragons
This online exhibition marks the 50th anniversary in 2008 of the first issue of "Regional" stamps for the various countries and islands of the British isles. It was designed to compliment the exhibition that was on display from 6 May 2008 (National Stamp Day) until Spring 2009 in our archive search room.
Different definitive stamps for the component regions of Wales, Northern Island, Scotland and the islands of Guernsey, Jersey and the Isle of Man were first issued in 1958. Each design bore a symbol to represent its region, from lions and leopards to unicorns and dragons. This exhibition explores how the designs came about.
The idea for "regional" definitive stamps
In the 1950s there was a sentiment that stamps be produced for different parts of the UK.
"Regional" stamps for the Islands
The first ideas for "Regional" stamps were suggested shortly after the end of the Second World War.
"Regional" stamps for Wales
It was decided that the principal Welsh symbol should be the Welsh dragon (passant).
"Regional" stamps for Northern Ireland
It was difficult to find politically neutral symbols for use on these stamps.
"Regional" stamps for Scotland
The Scottish Committee suggested that heraldic symbols should be used in the designs.
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