At Mandurah Auctions, we are proud to announce the arrival of a prestigious starting range of Great Britain Queen Victoria stamps (often referred to by collectors as GB QV Stamps). For any serious philatelist, the Victorian era represents the “Golden Age” of postage. It was a period of rapid innovation, spanning from the birth of the world’s first adhesive postage stamp in 1840 to the sophisticated multi-coloured issues of the late 19th century.
Whether you are a seasoned specialist or a newcomer to British philately, our new collection offers a window into the British Empire at its height.
The Historical Significance of the Victorian Era
Before 1840, sending a letter in Great Britain was expensive and paid for by the recipient. This changed with the Postal Reform led by Sir Rowland Hill, which introduced the Uniform Penny Post. This historical shift democratised communication and led to the creation of the legendary Penny Black (the world’s first stamp).
When you collect GB QV stamps, you aren’t just collecting paper and ink; you are holding a piece of social history. These stamps saw the rise of the railway, the expansion of the British Empire, and the birth of modern global communication.
Why Collect GB QV Stamps?
For collectors, Great Britain Queen Victoria stamps are highly sought after for several reasons:
1. The Firsts of Philately The collection begins with the legendary Penny Black, followed by the Penny Red and the Two Pence Blue. These line-engraved masterpieces are iconic pieces of history. Owning a GB QV stamp isn’t just about the paper; it’s about owning a piece of the Industrial Revolution.
2. Intricate Variety Collectors love the Victorian era because of the sheer variety. From the early Line-Engraved issues to the Embossed stamps and the later Surface Printed designs, the evolution of printing technology is visible on every page of a Victorian album.
3. The Hunt for Plate Numbers and Watermarks For the specialist, GB QV stamps offer an endless treasure hunt. Many issues feature tiny plate numbers engraved into the design or specific watermarks that can significantly affect the rarity and value of the stamp. Our new range includes examples that will appeal to both the type collector and the specialist.
What to Look for in This Collection
Our initial range at Mandurah Auctions features a curated selection of:
- Classic Line-Engraved: Including the hardy Penny Reds, which replaced the Penny Black and remained in use for decades.
- High Value Specials: Keep an eye out for the larger format High Value stamps, known for their stunning engraving and regal presence.
- Postal History: Many of these stamps come with unique cancellations, telling the story of where they travelled across the British Isles.
Why Buy Through Mandurah Auctions?
When you bid or purchase with Mandurah Auctions, you are supporting a local Western Australian business that values transparency, expert cataloguing, and the passion of the hobby. We provide clear high-resolution images and honest descriptions so you can bid with confidence.
Start Your Victorian Collection Today
The GB QV stamps range is now live in our Shop. As this is a starting range, it is the perfect time to get in early and secure foundational pieces – from the classic Penny Reds to the sophisticated Surface Printed issues – before they head to the private albums of other collectors.