The 2024/25 Season of the Royal Philatelic Society London began in traditional style on 12 September with a display of material for the Royal Philatelic Collection shown by gracious permission of His Majesty King Charles III. As always, it was a great privilege for members to see this fine material which this year focused on The Region of West Africa.
In the frames were the stamps of the reigns of Queen Victoria to King George VI from Gambia, Gold Coast (now Ghana), Nigeria and Sierra Leone. The issued stamps were frequently accompanied by examples overprinted ‘SPECIMEN’, while also often included were subsequent printings revealing changes to the stamps. As Rod Vousden FRPSL, Acting Keeper of the Royal Philatelic Collection, explained, King George V wanted his collection to be in pristine condition with the stamps unused so that nothing would spoil their designs.
Particularly impressive were examples of the original artwork for the designs of stamps, often meticulously produced stamp-size. These were frequently created from photographic sources, with the Royal portrait taken from an existing die proof.
Giving the Vote of Thanks was Rob May FRPSL who congratulated Rod on a superb and impressive display, particularly commenting that being in blocks of four made many of the stamps look truly spectacular. Also thanked was Stephanie Twohig who had helped put the display together.
Simon Richards FRPSL, Vice President of the Society, presented Rod with a Certificate to mark the occasion, receiving approval from the members for a letter of appreciation to be sent to His Majesty for such a wonderful display.
Illustration:
Rod Vousden FRPSL, Acting Keeper of the Royal Philatelic Collection, with Stephanie Twohig.