Machin Stamps 50th Anniversary

This issue is a celebration of the iconic definitive stamp on its 50th anniversary, and one of the most reproduced images of all time. First issued on 5 June 1967, the same week The Beatles released Sgt Pepper, the new definitive stamp was issued, and is in many ways Royal Mail’s stamp design classic.

Inspired by the Penny Black, the design was conceived by sculptor Arnold Machin and at first based on his bas relief
sculpture for the new decimal coins. He sculpted plaster casts, looked to incorporate text and symbols and essays were produced. Simplification of head and text and framing devices occurred, and ultimately the SAC* preferred the Queen to wear a diadem (crown worn by Victoria on Penny Black). Machin used a photograph by John Hedgecoe to model the diadem and then he created a further new sculpted plaster cast, later adding a corsage for the final sculpture. A cast of this was photographed and used for the artwork for the first stamp.

Machin’s image has appeared on more than 200 billion stamps, making it one of the most reproduced images of all time. It is the subject of avid collecting and study for discerning philatelists.

To commemorate this important Philatelic anniversary two Minisheets were issued - one to look at the design process
and then another looking at its evolution over the 50 years. A five pane PSB, a set of Post & Go stamps and a Retail Book were also issued as well as other philatelic collectibles.

*Stamp Advisory Committee - an independent body that meets six times a year and provides advice and guidance to Royal Mail by reviewing the creative approach to the design process. 

Further covers are available for this issue in our Post & Go section.