A Christmas story
We have today revealed the images of our 2019 Christmas Special Stamps.
The six-stamp designs depict scenes from the Biblical story of the Nativity, from the Annunciation, the journey of the Magi and the birth of Jesus Christ.
The stamps were created by the talented duo and paper-cut artists, Hari & Deepti. Using layers of intricate paper and light-boxes, they create three-dimensional scenes and creations that bring magical stories to life. Their atmospheric work has been exhibited internationally.
Available in First Class, Second Class, large letter rates and overseas values, the stamps are available from today at www.royalmail.com/christmas2019, by calling 03457 641641 and from 7,000 Post Office branches across the UK.
The history of Christmas cards
The tradition of sending Christmas cards was established in 1843, with the introduction of the world’s first commercially-produced Christmas cards. The cards were commissioned by Sir Henry Cole, who just three years earlier had played a key role in helping to introduce Royal Mail’s Penny Post service. Only 1,000 of these cards were printed and sold for a shilling each. This meant that they were a luxury item and were not affordable for most people.
One of the original 1,000 cards sent is also the most valuable in the world, according to Guinness World Records. The card, which was originally sent by Sir Henry Cole to his grandmother in 1843, was sold at an auction in Devizes, Wiltshire for £20,000 on 24 November 2001.
Post Early for Christmas
Royal Mail is encouraging customers to post their festive greetings early, and order their online gifts and shopping well in advance, to help its postmen and women deliver the bumper festive mailbag.
UK latest recommended posting dates for Christmas 2019 are:
- Wednesday 18 December for Second Class Mail
- Friday 20 December for First Class Mail
- Monday 23 December for Special Delivery
Further information is available at www.royalmail.com/greetings
Stamps and stamp products are available at www.royalmail.com/christmas2019, by phone on 03457 641 641 and 7,000 Post Offices across the UK.
