Royal Mail Launches Stamps Honoring Historic British Locomotives

Royal Mail has announced the launch of a new set of stamps that celebrate the rich heritage of British steam locomotives and the significant development of the UK’s railway network. This collection features ten stamps highlighting iconic locomotives that played a crucial role in shaping the history of rail travel in Britain. Among these are Locomotion No. 1, Rocket, Mallard, and Evening Star.

In addition to the main collection, a miniature sheet comprising four stamps will commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, the first public railway to use steam locomotives. Royal Mail collaborated closely with the National Railway Museum and Darlington Council to develop this special issue.

Commemorating a Historic Milestone

David Gold, Royal Mail’s Director of External Affairs and Policy, expressed enthusiasm about the stamps: “To coincide with the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, Royal Mail is releasing a set of stamps honouring Britain’s enduring legacy of steam locomotion. This stamp issue captures the spirit of an era that transformed travel and trade forever.”

Craig Bentley, Director at the National Railway Museum, added, “We are delighted to have collaborated with Royal Mail to develop this special set of stamps with images of these iconic steam locomotives, and to share with the nation in this celebration of railway history.”

Celebrating the Stockton and Darlington Railway

Mike Crawshaw, Head of Heritage and Culture at Darlington Borough Council, noted, “We are truly honoured and thrilled with these commemorative stamps that celebrate the importance of the Stockton and Darlington Railway (S&DR). They beautifully capture the spirit and significance of the S&DR and Locomotion No. 1, and we’re proud to see this moment celebrated in such a meaningful and lasting way.”

The stamps, along with a variety of collectible products, are available for pre-order starting on September 21, 2023, and will be released for general sale on September 25, 2023. This initiative not only recognizes the historical impact of steam locomotives but also aims to educate the public about their role in revolutionizing transportation in the UK.

As the railway network continues to evolve, these stamps serve as a reminder of the innovations that propelled the country into a new era of travel and commerce.