Posts Tagged ‘penny red’
Discovering the Iconic Penny Red: A Piece of British History
Few stamps hold as much historical significance and charm as the Penny Red. First issued in 1841, the Penny Red succeeded the world-famous Penny Black, taking its place as the United Kingdom’s standard postage stamp for over three decades. With its distinct red hue and intricate design featuring the effigy of Queen Victoria, the Penny Red became an enduring symbol of Britain’s postal heritage.
The Problem with the Penny Black
Shortly after the Penny Black’s release in 1840, postal officials realised that people could remove the red cancellation marks using water or chemicals, leading to stamp reuse. To solve this, the Rainbow Trials were conducted, testing various inks to find one that couldn’t be removed without damaging the stamp. Black ink proved most effective, but it couldn’t be used on the black background of the Penny Black.
As a result, in 1841, the Penny Black was replaced with the Penny Red, while cancellation marks were changed to black to make them more visible.
While the Penny Red design mirrored its predecessor, the shift to red ink gave it a unique identity. It remained imperforate during its initial release, meaning stamps had to be cut manually from sheets — a detail that makes these early versions particularly sought after by collectors.
The Evolution of British Stamps
During its long tenure, the Penny Red saw several variations, from perforations being introduced in 1854 to changes in the way it was printed and watermarked. It was retired in 1879, and many collectors marvel at the enduring nature of this modest yet historically significant stamp.
For philatelists and history lovers alike, owning a Penny Red offers a tangible connection to the early days of modern postage.
An Exclusive Opportunity: The 1841 Imperforate Penny Red and Victorian Threepence Set
For those looking to own a true piece of British heritage, we are proud to offer the 1841 Imperforate 1d Penny Red and Victorian Threepence Set. This stunning duo combines two Victorian-era icons: the Penny Red and the highly collectable Victorian Threepence coin.
Your Silver coin features the popular ‘Young Head’ portrait by William Wyon – Queen Victoria’s first for coinage.
The 1841 Penny Red in this set hails from the early imperforate editions, offering a true snapshot of philatelic history. Paired with a Victorian Threepence — a coin minted during Queen Victoria’s reign — this collection is an exclusive opportunity to hold two pieces of Victorian legacy in your hands.
Perfect for collectors and history enthusiasts, this set is beautifully presented and makes for a unique gift or addition to any collection. As with all historical items, these pieces are in limited supply, so don’t miss your chance to own a piece of British history.
The Penny Stamp sold for £495,000
A rare Penny Red stamp has recently become the UK’s second most valuable stamp, selling for £495,000 to an unnamed British collector.
The Penny Red stamp dutifully served the Victorian public for almost 40 years. But only a few knowledgeable collectors are aware of the full significance of the plate numbers from this classic British stamp.
Here you can see Plate 78. Hidden within the borders of the stamp is the plate number – the key to the stamp’s rarity and true value.
Hidden within the borders of the stamp is the plate number and each number refers back to the original metal plate from which the stamp was printed. And as each plate printed different quantities of Penny Reds, so the plate number is the secret key to the stamp’s rarity and true value.
The Plate 77 Penny Red is one of only five in the world. Dating from 1863, they are viewed by collectors and investors as the holy grail of philately because Plate 77 stamps were not meant to exist. The stamps were created but never sold by post offices after they were considered to be not good enough quality.
The original printing plate was destroyed, but a tiny handful made their way into circulation. As a result they are highly prized by collectors – far more so even than the fabled Penny Black.
The last Plate 77 Penny Red to hit auction sold in 2012 for £550,000, making it the UK’s most expensive stamp. Its slightly higher price reflected the fact that it was in significantly better condition.
Keith Heddle, of collectibles merchant Stanley Gibbons, which sold the stamp, said: “This is one of the most desirable and iconic of British stamps for collectors worldwide, highly sought after for more than 100 years. I’m delighted this one has found a home in Britain.”
If you’re interested… 
You can own an entire Penny Red Plate Collection.
Featuring one stamp from virtually every plate ever used. This is probably the most comprehensive collection of Penny Reds ever offered.