Iconic Ship Mail and Their Stamps: A Collector’s Guide
Stamp collections have a rich history and hold a special place in the hearts of collectors worldwide. Collectors are drawn to stamps that are iconic, not just for their aesthetic appeal but also for the captivating stories behind them and their significant value.
In this collector’s guide, we will delve into the fascinating world of iconic ship mail and their stamps. From the world’s first postage stamp to rare and highly sought-after designs, we will explore the Penny Black, the Five Pound Orange, the Seahorse High Values, the Postal Union Congress stamp, the Wilding Definitives, the Machin Definitives, the Four Anna stamp, and the ‘Camel Postman’ stamp.
Key Takeaways:
- Iconic ship mail stamps hold a special place in stamp collections.
- The Penny Black is the world’s first postage stamp and revolutionized affordable communication.
- The Five Pound Orange is a highly sought-after stamp with historical significance.
- The Seahorse High Values symbolize patriotism and are cherished by collectors.
- The Postal Union Congress stamp features a striking design and has a high survival rate.
The Penny Black
The Penny Black, designed by Rowland Hill, holds a significant place in stamp collecting history as the world’s first postage stamp. It revolutionized communication by introducing a uniform 1d rate for prepaid postage, making it affordable for people from all walks of life to send letters. Prior to the Penny Black, postal rates were complex and varied depending on distance. This simple yet groundbreaking design allowed letters to be delivered within the UK at a flat rate.
The Penny Black’s design did not include a country name, as it was the first of its kind. Its iconic black color with a profile portrait of Queen Victoria made it easily recognizable. The stamp’s release in 1840 marked a new era of affordable communication and paved the way for the growth of the postal system. The Penny Black remains a symbol of the power of postage stamps to connect people across distances.
| Stamp | Designer | Year of Issue |
|---|---|---|
| Penny Black | Rowland Hill | 1840 |
The Five Pound Orange
The Five Pound Orange is a highly sought-after stamp by GB collectors. Originally issued for telegraph services, it was part of a series that covered the cost of sending lengthy telegrams. As the highest value telegraph stamp, it was equivalent to over a month’s wages of a farm laborer at the time.
When telegraph fees started to be paid with postage stamps, the printing plate of the Five Pound Orange was adapted, making it a rare and valuable postage stamp. Its distinctive orange color and historical significance make it a prized addition to any collection.
Intriguing Facts
- The Five Pound Orange was originally issued for use within the British Empire.
- It became the highest denomination telegraph stamp used to cover the cost of lengthy telegrams.
- With its vibrant orange color, the Five Pound Orange stands out among other stamps.
- The high value of this stamp made it equivalent to more than a month’s wages of a farm laborer during its time.
Collectors prize the Five Pound Orange for its rarity and historical significance. Its connection to the telegraph services of the British Empire and its vibrant orange color make it a true gem in any stamp collection.
Comparison of High Value Postage Stamps
| Stamp | Year of Issue | Color | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penny Black | 1840 | Black | 1d |
| Five Pound Orange | Telegraph service stamp | Orange | £5 |
| Seahorse High Values | 1913 | Various | 10s, £1, £5 |
Seahorse High Values
The Seahorse High Values stamps, designed by Bertrand Mackennal, hold immense historical significance in stamp collecting. These stamps were issued in 1913, right before the outbreak of World War 1. With their exquisite engraving and intricate design, the Seahorse High Values stamps are a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of their time.
Depicting Britannia and King George V, the Seahorse High Values stamps serve as patriotic symbols, representing Britain’s power and dominance as a ruler of the seas. They embody the national pride and unity that prevailed during that era.
Collectors are particularly drawn to the Seahorse High Values stamps because of their unique and striking design, which captures the essence of the time they were issued. These stamps are more than just postage; they are artifacts that provide a glimpse into the historical events and sentiments of the early 20th century.
The Seahorse High Values stamps are highly sought-after by collectors worldwide, not only for their beauty but also for their rarity. Their value has continued to appreciate over the years, making them highly desirable additions to any stamp collection.
Seahorse High Values Stamp Details
| Year of Issue | Denominations | Design | Rarity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1913-1934 | 2s 6d, 5s, 10s | Britannia and King George V | Highly sought-after |
Postal Union Congress
The Postal Union Congress stamp was issued in 1929 to commemorate the meeting of the Universal Postal Union. Designed by Harold Nelson, this stamp is widely regarded as one of the most striking stamps ever issued. Its intricate design features the legendary figure of Saint George and the Dragon, accompanied by a portrait of King George V.
What sets this stamp apart is not only its striking design but also its high survival rate. Despite being printed in large quantities, the Postal Union Congress stamp has managed to withstand the test of time, making it a common find among collectors. However, first-day covers bearing the £1 value are exceptionally rare and highly sought after.
| Stamp Name | Year | Design | Survival Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Postal Union Congress | 1929 | Intricate design of Saint George and the Dragon, portrait of King George V | High |
Wilding Definitives
The Wilding Definitives were a series of postage stamps in use from 1952 to 1968. These definitive postage stamps were named after the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Dorothy Wilding, a renowned British photographer. They featured a timeless design that captured the elegance and grace of Queen Elizabeth II.
What set the Wilding Definitives apart was their innovative use of graphite lines and invisible bands of phosphorescent ink. These features allowed for automatic letter sorting, making the stamp design technologically advanced for its time.
Initially, the Wilding portrait on the stamps closely resembled the iconic Penny Black stamp, showcasing Queen Elizabeth II in a side profile. However, over time, the design transitioned into a more basic portrait, still maintaining its classic appeal.
The Wilding Definitives became a staple in stamp collecting due to their timeless design and historical significance. They represent an era of British postal history and continue to be cherished by collectors worldwide.
Machin Definitives
The Machin Definitives, designed by Arnold Machin, replaced the Wildings as the definitive stamp series in 1967. The simple and elegant design focused on Queen Elizabeth II as a person rather than a symbol of the monarchy. The Machin stamp has been in use for over 49 years and is still considered an iconic symbol of Britain. The timeless design of the Machin stamp, like the Penny Black, has made it an iconic stamp that transcends design trends and fashion.
The Machin Definitives feature a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, which was based on a bust sculpted by Arnold Machin himself. The image of the Queen was a departure from traditional stamp designs that often depicted royalty as formal and distant figures. Machin aimed to capture the Queen’s humanity and create a stamp that would resonate with people on a personal level.
The design of the Machin Definitives is simple yet elegant, showcasing the Queen’s profile in a monochromatic color scheme. This minimalist approach allows the stamp to stand out and be easily recognizable. The Machin Definitives have become synonymous with British postage and are instantly associated with the country’s mail system.
“The Machin Definitives revolutionized stamp design by focusing on the individuality of Queen Elizabeth II rather than relying on traditional symbolism. It’s a testament to Arnold Machin’s artistic vision and the enduring appeal of a simple and elegant design.”
Machin Definitives: Key Features
To understand the significance of the Machin Definitives, let’s examine some key features:
- Design: The iconic profile of Queen Elizabeth II, created by Arnold Machin, is the centerpiece of the stamp.
- Colors: The stamp is typically printed in single colors, such as black or brown, to maintain its simplicity and elegance.
- Denominations: The Machin Definitives are available in various denominations to meet the changing postal rates and needs of the public.
- Print Runs: These stamps have been in continuous production for almost five decades, making them easily accessible to collectors.
The Arnold Machin Stamp
The Arnold Machin stamp, also known as the “Queen’s Head,” is one of the most reproduced images in the world. It has been used not only on postage stamps but also on coins, banknotes, and official documents. The simplicity and timelessness of the design have made it an enduring symbol of Britain.
The popularity of the Machin Definitives among collectors is evident in the variety of specialized albums, catalogs, and accessories dedicated to these stamps. Collectors often seek different print variations, including color shades, phosphor bands, and perforation types, to create a comprehensive collection.
Here is an example of a complete set of Machin Definitives, showcasing the various denominations and colors:
| Denomination | Color | Issue Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1p | Black | 1967 |
| 2p | Scarlet | 1967 |
| 5p | Brown | 1967 |
| 10p | Blue | 1969 |
Whether you’re a stamp collector or simply appreciate the cultural significance of postage stamps, the Machin Definitives are an essential part of British philately. Their simple and elegant design, coupled with their association with Queen Elizabeth II, has solidified their status as an iconic symbol of Britain.
Four Anna
The Four Anna stamp of India, issued in 1854, is a bicolored stamp that holds a special place in stamp collecting. This stamp was printed with a red frame and a blue central head of Queen Victoria. The printing process was complex, involving two separate operations. It was later discovered that some stamps had inverted heads, making them even more rare and valuable. The Four Anna stamp is considered one of the greatest Indian classic rarities and is highly sought after by collectors.
| Stamp Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Rarity | The Four Anna stamp is a highly sought-after rarity in the world of stamp collecting. |
| Printing Process | The stamp was printed using a complex bicolored process, with a red frame and a blue central head of Queen Victoria. |
| Inverted Heads | Some Four Anna stamps were printed with inverted heads, adding to their rarity and value. |
| Historical Significance | This stamp represents a significant time in Indian history and holds cultural and historical value. |
Camel Postman
The ‘Camel Postman’ stamp is a famous stamp design that originated during General Sir Herbert Kitchener’s campaign in Sudan. In 1898, Kitchener commissioned Captain E.A. Stanton to create a stamp design, and the result was a watercolor sketch of a camel postman riding through the desert with dummy mail bags. This iconic stamp design has gained worldwide recognition and is highly valued by collectors.
Five Shillings Penguin
The Five Shillings Penguin stamp, issued in the 1960s, is a rare and highly sought-after stamp for collectors. This unique stamp was specifically created for use in the British Antarctic Territory and the Falkland Islands, making it even more special. The design features a charming depiction of a penguin, symbolizing the rich wildlife and natural beauty of the Antarctic region.
Due to its limited issuance and association with these remote areas, the Five Shillings Penguin stamp holds great value in the stamp collecting community. Collectors appreciate the rarity and significance of this stamp, as it represents a captivating piece of history and exploration. Owning a Five Shillings Penguin stamp is like having a tangible connection to the Antarctic and the Falkland Islands.
With its exquisite design and connection to the British Antarctic Territory and Falkland Islands, the Five Shillings Penguin stamp is a prized addition to any stamp collection. Its uniqueness and scarcity make it a standout item that collectors desire. If you have the opportunity to acquire a Five Shillings Penguin stamp, you won’t just be adding a rare stamp to your collection, but also a piece of Antarctic heritage.
