The Iconic Penny Black Postage Stamp
The Penny Black, issued in the UK on May 1, 1840 (valid from May 6), was the world’s first adhesive postage stamp. It featured a profile of Queen Victoria from a sketch made of her when she was only 15.
Prior to its introduction, British postal rates were notably high and complex. The recipient was usually responsible for paying the postage upon delivery, calculated based on weight and distance travelled. Sir Rowland Hill proposed the concept of an adhesive stamp to signify pre-payment of postage, thereby simplifying the postal process.
The Penny Black enabled half-ounce (14g) letters to be delivered for one penny, anywhere in the UK. Printed by Perkins Bacon, over 68 million stamps were produced in its one-year run.
The design of the Penny Black featured the word “POSTAGE” at the top and “ONE PENNY” at the bottom, with finely engraved engine turnings in the background. The upper left and right corners had star-like designs, while the lower corners had letters showing the stamp’s position on the sheet.
Although it was in circulation for only a brief period, the Penny Black is widely regarded as an iconic and highly coveted stamp among collectors.
“The Penny Black” is available for purchase in my gallery as:
Wall Art, Home Accents, Puzzles, Beach Essentials, Stylish Totes, Greeting Cards, Phone Cases, Coffee Mugs & Apparel
You can customize the image to suit your style—use the full artwork or zoom in on a favorite detail.
Risk-free purchase—30-day money-back guarantee.
✨ Click on the artwork to discover the many ways this featured piece can become part of your world!
