Royal Mail has unveiled a new stamp collection celebrating some of the most influential designs in British postal history — and, for the first time, each stamp carries a unique watermark printed
on its reverse.
Released today (20 November), the eight-stamp set revisits iconic issues from Queen Victoria’s reign, beginning with the revolutionary Penny Black of 1840, the world’s first adhesive postage stamp. Also included are the Twopenny Blue (1841), the 6d embossed issue (1854), the 4d first letterpress (1855), the 1s small-letters stamp (1862), the Penny Red (1864), the Penny Lilac (1881) and the ornate 4d “Jubilee” of 1887.
Together, the collection traces the birth of modern postal communication and showcases the enduring profile of Victoria — an image that defined British stamps for more than 60 years.
In a first for Royal Mail’s contemporary stamp programme, each design features a watermark on its reverse side, echoing the original Victorian security marks intended to deter forgery. Every watermark has been matched to the era of the stamp it accompanies, adding a historically faithful layer of detail for collectors.
Alongside the main set, Royal Mail has issued a miniature sheet inspired by Queen Victoria’s passion for photography. The sheet features four portraits from different stages of her life, offering a rare, intimate perspective on the monarch — from her early years on the throne to her later role as the symbolic matriarch of a global empire. A decorative border surrounds the sheet, reflecting the ornate style of the Victorian age.
The stamps and associated collectibles are available now at royalmail.com/queenvictoria or by phone on 03457 641641.
David Gold, Director of External Affairs & Policy, Royal Mail, said: “Each of these stamps is a miniature masterpiece. Taken together, they tell the story of a communication revolution. By revisiting these iconic designs, we honour the enduring legacy of Queen Victoria, the origins of the modern postal service, and the timeless elegance of British stamps.”
The stamps, and a range of collectible products, are available to pre-order from today (20 November) at www.royalmail.com/queenvictoria and by telephone on 03457 641 641. A Presentation Pack including all 12 stamps is priced at £21.30. The stamps go on general sale from 27 November.