The History of the UK Postal Stamp – Day 3

The perforation of stamps during the Victorian age was often a subject of experimentation. Cutting stamps from imperforated sheets using scissors was time consuming and costly, so many different methods of perforation were used as a ways of saving time and money. Trials with the Archer Roulette and then with surface printing in 1855 were undergone, then tests were made with perforation, which quickly became one of the most popular methods and is still commonly used today.

pennylilacEmbossed postage stamps were also used, in a variety of octagonal designs. The age of the Penny Red came to an end in 1880 along with the start of the new surface printed stamps. The Penny Lilac was issued subsequently in 1881 and lasted until the end of Victoria’s reign in 1901. The Penny Lilac was also the first stamp issued that was valid as both a postal stamp and a revenue stamp; used to collect taxes or fees on documents.

In 1883 and 1884, the postal service experimented with fugitive inks that faded quickly and washed out to prevent the stamps being reused, but these were short lived and not liked by the public. Because the reign of Victoria was coming to an end, a new set of stamps needed to be issued.

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Commemorative Horse Stamps 2014

In continuation with the theme of the Year of the Horse, a series of commemorative stamps has been printed to recognise the efforts made by horses in British society today. Although contribution by horses in British society has dramatically reduced since the invention of the motor car, horses are still used in day to day tasks such as pulling lumber, as members of the Queen’s guard, and in many leisure and sporting events.

horse-drawnHorses are incredibly trusting and affectionate animals. They can provide true support to those who need it, and are one of the most commonly used working animals in the UK. To commemorate this year of the horse, British post offices have announced a series of horse-themed stamps available in 2014. Traditional circus and fairground festivals often have horse-drawn carts and many farmers use horses to pull tilling equipment, so equines still have a huge role in today’s workplace!

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