775) Reintroduced Species: A set of six stamps issued by the Royal Mail, UK depicting UK's successfully restored wildlife including the Osprey, Eurasian Beaver, Pool Frog, Sand Lizard, Large Blue Butterfly, and Stinking Hawk's-beard species on 17.04.2018:
This special collection of stamps and collectibles, illustrates the UK's successfully restored wildlife - including the Eurasian beaver, Osprey, Pool Frog, Sand Lizard, Large-Blue Butterfly and Stinking Hawk's-beard. This pack celebrates the work of scientists and conservationists who have reintroduced once extinct species back into the country.
Each reintroduced species in this unique collection has its own fascinating story to tell and includes a brief background on the efforts of conservationists to reintroduce them to their respective habitats.
The Presentation Pack titled " Royal Mail mint stamps - REINTRODUCED SPECIES" contains se-tenant stamps of two each in three sets (6 stamps in all) depicting Reintroduced species of six species - Osprey (Pandian Heliatus), Large Blue Butterfly (Maculinea arion), Eurasian Beaver (Castor fiber), Pool Frog (Pelophylax lessonae), Stinking Hawk's-beard (Crepis foetida) and Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis)
A First Day Cover (FDC) issued on the date of release of the six stamp set is titled "Reintroduced Species" and is inscribed "Royal Mail First Day Cover".
At top right are the six stamps issued in the set cancelled with a Hand-stamp dated "17.04.2018".
An image of the special souvenir, which is identical to the First Day Cover (FDC) but without the personalised name and address and no stamps affixed thereon
These three Special Mint Stamps have been issued as three horizontal se-tenant pairs sets of two each of different values, featuring a successfully reintroduced species:
Osprey and Large-Blue Butterfly - 1st Class value stamps
Eurasian Beaver and Pool Frog - 1.45 Pounds value stamps
Stinking Hawk's-beard and Sand Lizard - 1.55 Pounds value stamps:
Osprey and Large-Blue Butterfly - 1st Class value stamps
Eurasian Beaver and Pool Frog - 1.45 Pounds value stamps
Stinking Hawk's-beard and Sand Lizard - 1.55 Pounds value stamps:
Images of the six reintroduced species included in the Stamp set together with a brief description on each one
The technical specifications of this Stamp set are:
Number of Stamps: Six
Values: 2 x 1st Class, 2 x 1.40 pounds, 2 x 1.57 pounds
Date of Issue: 17.04.2018
Design: Godfrey Design
Illustrations: Tanya Lock
Printer: International Security Printers @ Royal Mail Group Ltd
Process: Lithography
Format: Square
Size: 35.0 mm x 35.0 mm
Perforations: 14.5 x 14.5
Phosphor: bars as Stamp design
Pack Number: 554
Design: Jack Renwick Studio
Words: Chris Packham
The technical specifications of this Stamp set are:
Number of Stamps: Six
Values: 2 x 1st Class, 2 x 1.40 pounds, 2 x 1.57 pounds
Date of Issue: 17.04.2018
Design: Godfrey Design
Illustrations: Tanya Lock
Printer: International Security Printers @ Royal Mail Group Ltd
Process: Lithography
Format: Square
Size: 35.0 mm x 35.0 mm
Perforations: 14.5 x 14.5
Phosphor: bars as Stamp design
Pack Number: 554
Design: Jack Renwick Studio
Words: Chris Packham
Detailed description of the magnitude of Extinction of Species & their Reintroduction efforts:
Over the centuries, a great many of the UK's animal and plant species have become extinct, due mainly to a decline in and fragmentation of their natural habitats on land and by rivers, seas and streams.
Over the centuries, a great many of the UK's animal and plant species have become extinct, due mainly to a decline in and fragmentation of their natural habitats on land and by rivers, seas and streams.
Since 1800, it is estimated that more than 400 species of animals and plants have become extinct in the UK. There are many reasons for this, including loss and degradation of habitat and species becoming increasingly isolated from neighbouring populations.
Fortunately, thanks to the efforts of conservationists, scientists and numerous dedicated volunteers, a number of formerly extinct species of flora and fauna have been successfully reintroduced at sites across the UK.
Several successful initiatives have brought species back to their native lands from other countries
Several successful initiatives have brought species back to their native lands from other countries
The result of human activities:
Human beings have modified and managed the landscape for their own benefit for millennia, and recently that management has proved to be extremely damaging, with natural habitats in the decline and many species being in danger of extinction and many already gone.
A chance at a "second life" to many species:
Thankfully, these days "already gone" does not mean "gone for ever", because conservationists have evolved technologies, skills and expertise needed to successfully bring some species back, reintroducing them to their former environments where they can flourish once more.
Though such projects cost money, take time to bring to fruition and can occasionally attract opposition, these repairs are critical to securing a healthy landscape and maximising our bio-diversity.
It might be hard to imagine that a sand lizard, a pool frog, an osprey or a small plant such as the stinking hawk's-beard could be so important, but they are.
The eco-system warriors:
In nature, it really does take all sorts, though, of course, some species do have a more dramatic or influential role to play.
The Eurasian beaver, for example, is what is known as an "eco-system engineer". Through its tree felling and damming endeavours, it actively reshapes the environment and greatly enhances it for the benefit of many other species. Insects, fish, amphibians, reptiles and birds can all prosper as a direct result of its activities.
One of the biggest issues in conservation's "re-wilding" strategy is the reintroduction of larger predators, such as the brown bear, wolf and lynx. In their absence, populations of deer (their favoured prey) have risen rapidly and are now damaging habitats and reducing the numbers of many insects and woodland birds. Reintroducing the predators seems to be an obvious solution, but it is not that simple.
Over-crowded 21st Century Britain has little room for these animals to roam safely and, with people having adjusted to life without them, their potential return has been viewed with concern with some.
Some fortunate species:
In the meantime, pool frogs, common cranes, corncrakes, white-tailed eagles, vendace, great bustards, starved wood-sedge and red kites have all been given a helping hand, while ospreys, little egrets and avocets have taken advantage of changing attitudes and climate, as well as conservation management.
These are exciting times for a number of native species and for everyone who loves them.
The gigantic task ahead:
At the present time, there are more than 900 native species in the UK classified as "Under Threat", with other species in a significant decline.
Some of the Extinct/Reintroduced ones:
Common Crane (Extinct/Reintroduced) - was once a widespread breeding species in the UK, has become extinct in the 1600s due to hunting and the loss of their wetland habitat.
Between 2010 and 2014, the Great Crane Project supported the hand-rearing and release of 93 cranes into the Somerset Levels and Moors. The total UK population in 2016 was an estimated 160 birds.
Between 2010 and 2014, the Great Crane Project supported the hand-rearing and release of 93 cranes into the Somerset Levels and Moors. The total UK population in 2016 was an estimated 160 birds.
Osprey (Extinct/Reintroduced) - The UK's last breeding Osprey died in Scotland in 1916, following years of persecution.
Natural recolonization occurred in Scotland by Ospreys believed to be from Scandinavia.
Large Blue Butterfly (Extinct/Reintroduced) - The species was declared extinct in the UK in 1979.
The discovery of the red ant Myrmica sabuleti was key to the species survival and led to its official reintroduction.
Reindeer (Extinct/Reintroduced) - Reindeer were last recorded in the UK about 800 years ago.
In April 1952, a Swedish reindeer herder brought a group of reindeer to the Cairngorms in Scotland, which resulted in their successful reintroduction.
Great Bustard (Extinct/Reintroduced) - One of the heaviest birds capable of flight, the lastrecorded member of the species was shot down in the UK in 1832.
The Great Bustard Group initiated a 10-year trial reintroduction in Wiltshire.
Vendace (Extinct/Reintroduced) - This small freshwater fish, which was near-extinct and had only been recorded in four British lakes, was reintroduced into Scotland in the 1990s with stock from the Lake District.
Pool Frog (Reintroduced) - Following the last recorded UK sighting in 1995, pool frogs were reintroduced at an undisclosed site in Norfolk.
Eurasian Beaver (Extinct/Reintroduced) - After being hunted for its fur, meat and castoreum by the 1500s, the species had become extinct in the UK.
Six beavers were released onto a 500-acre site at Lower Mill Estate in Gloucestershire.
Stinking Hawk's-Beard (Extinct/Reintroduced) - In 1980, this plant disappeared from its last known site in Dungeness, Kent.
Reintroduced in 2001 in Rye, East Sussex, by 2005 the population was firmly established.
Sand Lizard (Reintroduced) - In 1995, a reintroduction programme led to the return of sand lizards to Wales after an absence of half a century.
Starved Wood-Sedge (Reintroduced) - More than 50 individual starved wood-sedge plants were reintroduced to a secret woodland location in Surrey.
Numerous reintroduction schemes and programmes have successfully supported the return of many formerly extinct species.
Numerous reintroduction schemes and programmes have successfully supported the return of many formerly extinct species.
A Spotter's Guide:
The above stamp depicts an Osprey (Pandion haliatus) and is of first (1st) class value
Osprey (Pandion haliaetus):
Osprey (Pandion haliaetus):
Afterbeing persecuted by game-keepers and losing eggs to collectors, in 1916, Ospreys were recorded as an extinct breeding species in Scotland, almost 70 years after their disappearance from England. Their natural recolonization of Scotland in the 1950s led to a slow growth in population, but with a limited spread - the males usually returning to breed close to where they hatched.
By the mid-1990s, there were around 100 pairs in the UK, mainly in the Highlands.
In 1996, 64 young birds from the Highlands were trans-located to Rutland Water in England and by 2001, some had returned from migration to rear young in England for the first time in 150 years. Ospreys also breed in the Lake District, Kielder Forest in Northumberland and in Wales.
The specifications of Ospreys are:
Size: Body length: 22-23 inches (55.9-58.4 centimetres); Wingspan: 55-69 inches (139.7 - 175.3 centimetres)
Voice: Its varied calls include a repeated "cheep" and a high-pitched whistle
Nesting: Most Osprey nests are found atop large trees, cliff edges and electricity pylons
Feeding: Ospreys lock their talons into fish to pluck them effectively from the water
UK numbers (2017): 250-300 nesting pairs
Females are about 20% bigger than males. Ospreys favour lakes, rivers or coastal locations. They have a dark colouring above and pale underside, with long talons.
The above stamp depicts a Large-Blue Butterfly (Maculinea arion) and is of first (1st) Class value
Large Blue Butterfly (Maculinea arion):
In 1979, it was declared that this fragile, beautiful butterfly had become extinct in the UK. Its last site being Dartmoor in Devon.
The species would become an important icon for extinction, its demise leading to a robust reintroduction programme - one destined to be far from straightforward due to an elaborate life cycle. Its larvae feeding on the grubs of a single species of red ant, making the ants as much a focus of conservation as the butterfly (The Myrmica red ant is key to the life cycle of the Large Blue).
However, the success of its reintroduction has been immense.
By 2006, an estimated 10,000 eggs were laid across 11 sites in South-west England. Ten years later, it was recorded that over 250,000 eggs had been laid on wild marjoram and wild thyme plants at two reserves in Gloucestershire and Somerset.
The specifications of the Large Blue Butterfly are:
Size: Male wingspan: 1.5-1.9 inches (3.8-4.8 centimetres); Female wingspan: 1.65-2.0 inches (4.2-5.3 centimetres)
Young: Females generally lay their eggs on wild thyme, the eggs hatch in 5-10 days
Diet: Wild thyme and wild marjoram flower heads, and grubs of the Myrmica ant
Habitat: Warm and well-drained unimproved grasslands (acidic coastal or limestone)
The Large Blue Butterfly has black outer margin and flashes on upper wings and a pale blue underside with black spots.
The above stamp depicts a Eurasian Beaver (Castor fiber) and is of 1.45 Pounds value
Eurasian Beaver (Castor fiber):
Eurasian Beavers were once widespread across Europe, but were hunted to near extinction for their fur, meat and castoreum (a secretion from the base of their tails that was used in the perfume trade).
The species disappeared from England, Wales and Scotland by the 16th Century but since then Europe's largest native rodent has been successfully reintroduced over most of the continent.
In the UK, Beavers were released into Knapdale Forest, Argyll, in 2009, as part of the Scottish Beaver Trial, which concluded in 2014.
With the birth of several kits, the beavr population is growing. Elsewhere in Scotland, an accidental release of beavers occurred on the River Tay, while in Emgland, Devon's River Otter Beaver Trial began in 2015 and will conclude in 2020.
The specifications of Beavers are:
Size: Body length: 27.5-39.4 inches (70-100 centimetres) Tail length: 8.0-16.0 inches (20.3-40.6 centimetres)
Weight: 33-66 Pounds (15.0-30.0 kilograms)
Young: One litter a year with an average litter comprising two or three kits
Diet: Aquatic plants, grasses, the bark, twigs and leaves of deciduous trees/shrubs
Beavers have large webbed hind feet which give them vital propulsion under water. They have a flattened muscular tail which helps them to steer through water. They also have small and dextrous front paws with well-defined claws, a sleek water-proof coat.
The above stamp depicts a Pool Frog (Pelophylax lessonae) and is of 1.45 Pounds value
Pool Frog (Pelophylax lessonae):
The native UK status of the Pool Frog was debated over many years, but research into its genetics and 'regional accent' later proved that it had occurred naturally in at least two sites in East Anglia.
By 1995, though, the species had disappeared. Damage to and loss of its Breckland and Fenland habitats due to agricultural intensification and drainage were cited as the principal causes of its demise.
However, from 2005 to 2008, pool frogs from Sweden were reintroduced into a site in Norfolk whose habitat had been specially enhanced to improve the species' chance of survival. The conservation efforts proved successful, as the Pool Frog population in this area has since grown and become well established.
The specifications of the Pool Frog are:
Size: Average male length: 2.0 inches (5.1 centimetres); females can grow to a length of 2.5 inches (6.4 centimetres)
Voice: A loud call similar to a duck's quack
Young: Females lay lumps of spawn in late spring/early summer
Diet: Insects, including flies and dragonflies
Habitat: Sunny areas supporting large pools that hold water through summer
Ridges from each eye run down the back. Pool Frogs have a brown and green colouring.
In 1979, it was declared that this fragile, beautiful butterfly had become extinct in the UK. Its last site being Dartmoor in Devon.
The species would become an important icon for extinction, its demise leading to a robust reintroduction programme - one destined to be far from straightforward due to an elaborate life cycle. Its larvae feeding on the grubs of a single species of red ant, making the ants as much a focus of conservation as the butterfly (The Myrmica red ant is key to the life cycle of the Large Blue).
However, the success of its reintroduction has been immense.
By 2006, an estimated 10,000 eggs were laid across 11 sites in South-west England. Ten years later, it was recorded that over 250,000 eggs had been laid on wild marjoram and wild thyme plants at two reserves in Gloucestershire and Somerset.
The specifications of the Large Blue Butterfly are:
Size: Male wingspan: 1.5-1.9 inches (3.8-4.8 centimetres); Female wingspan: 1.65-2.0 inches (4.2-5.3 centimetres)
Young: Females generally lay their eggs on wild thyme, the eggs hatch in 5-10 days
Diet: Wild thyme and wild marjoram flower heads, and grubs of the Myrmica ant
Habitat: Warm and well-drained unimproved grasslands (acidic coastal or limestone)
The Large Blue Butterfly has black outer margin and flashes on upper wings and a pale blue underside with black spots.
Eurasian Beaver (Castor fiber):
Eurasian Beavers were once widespread across Europe, but were hunted to near extinction for their fur, meat and castoreum (a secretion from the base of their tails that was used in the perfume trade).
The species disappeared from England, Wales and Scotland by the 16th Century but since then Europe's largest native rodent has been successfully reintroduced over most of the continent.
In the UK, Beavers were released into Knapdale Forest, Argyll, in 2009, as part of the Scottish Beaver Trial, which concluded in 2014.
With the birth of several kits, the beavr population is growing. Elsewhere in Scotland, an accidental release of beavers occurred on the River Tay, while in Emgland, Devon's River Otter Beaver Trial began in 2015 and will conclude in 2020.
The specifications of Beavers are:
Size: Body length: 27.5-39.4 inches (70-100 centimetres) Tail length: 8.0-16.0 inches (20.3-40.6 centimetres)
Weight: 33-66 Pounds (15.0-30.0 kilograms)
Young: One litter a year with an average litter comprising two or three kits
Diet: Aquatic plants, grasses, the bark, twigs and leaves of deciduous trees/shrubs
Beavers have large webbed hind feet which give them vital propulsion under water. They have a flattened muscular tail which helps them to steer through water. They also have small and dextrous front paws with well-defined claws, a sleek water-proof coat.
Pool Frog (Pelophylax lessonae):
The native UK status of the Pool Frog was debated over many years, but research into its genetics and 'regional accent' later proved that it had occurred naturally in at least two sites in East Anglia.
By 1995, though, the species had disappeared. Damage to and loss of its Breckland and Fenland habitats due to agricultural intensification and drainage were cited as the principal causes of its demise.
However, from 2005 to 2008, pool frogs from Sweden were reintroduced into a site in Norfolk whose habitat had been specially enhanced to improve the species' chance of survival. The conservation efforts proved successful, as the Pool Frog population in this area has since grown and become well established.
The specifications of the Pool Frog are:
Size: Average male length: 2.0 inches (5.1 centimetres); females can grow to a length of 2.5 inches (6.4 centimetres)
Voice: A loud call similar to a duck's quack
Young: Females lay lumps of spawn in late spring/early summer
Diet: Insects, including flies and dragonflies
Habitat: Sunny areas supporting large pools that hold water through summer
Ridges from each eye run down the back. Pool Frogs have a brown and green colouring.
The above stamp depicts a Stinking Hawk's-beard (Crepis foetida) and is of 1.55 Pounds value
Stinking Hawk's-Beard (Crepis foetida):
This 'dandelionesque' plant has never had a common UK presence, being limited to the coastal shingle of Kent and Essex, and scattered inland sites mainly in South-east England, on chalk and sandy soils.
Most populations were lost in the early 1900s, persisting only at Dungeness in Kent until 1980. Seed from Dungeness was collected, stored and cultivated at the University of Cambridge and has since been propagated and reintroduced to several nature reserves, in accordance with its very particular growth requirements - disturbed and well-drained ground in warm locations.
Despite some early failures - not least because rabbits enjoy consuming it - there is now a large reintroduced population at Rye Harbour in East Sussex, and another has been rediscovered in Dungeness.
The specifications of the Stinking Hawk's-beard are:
Size: Can reach heights of between 1.0 inch (2.5) and 16.0 inches (40.6 centimetres) in the UK
Type: Mainly annual, occasionally biennial
Flower: In bloom from June to August
Favoured climate: Near-Mediterranean, warm and dri
Habitat: Open, well-drained, warm areas, such as shingle and rocky out-crops
The Stinking Hawk's-beard produces a pungent scent of bitter almonds when touched. It avoids competition with other plants, as it damages growth.
Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis):
Sand Lizards approach the Northern edge of their European range in the UK, resulting in some very specific habitat requirements. Sandy lowland heaths have been the species' stronghold, but over the last century, 80 per cent of these warm, dry, heather-covered areas have been lost, which resulted in colonies of this species becoming isolated, vulnerable and fewer in number.
Fortunately, with more than 70 successful reintroductions of over 9,000 lizards, captive breeding has helped to end their decline.
They now live in protected heathland sites in Dorset, Hampshire and Surrey and in protected dune systems on Merseyside, and have also been re-established at sites in North and West Wales, Devon, Cornwall, Kent and West Sussex.
The specifications of the Sand Lizard are:
Size: Length (including tail): up to 8.0 inches (20.3 centimetres)
Young: Eggs are laid in late May/early June and buried in sand for warmth; eggs hatch between late August and September
Diet: Invertebrates, including insects, spiders and slugs
Habitat: Dry sandy heathland and coastal sand dunes
This is the only egg-laying lizard in the UK. It has dark blotches across the back. Males develop bright green flanks to attract females during the mating season.
Sand Lizards approach the Northern edge of their European range in the UK, resulting in some very specific habitat requirements. Sandy lowland heaths have been the species' stronghold, but over the last century, 80 per cent of these warm, dry, heather-covered areas have been lost, which resulted in colonies of this species becoming isolated, vulnerable and fewer in number.
Fortunately, with more than 70 successful reintroductions of over 9,000 lizards, captive breeding has helped to end their decline.
They now live in protected heathland sites in Dorset, Hampshire and Surrey and in protected dune systems on Merseyside, and have also been re-established at sites in North and West Wales, Devon, Cornwall, Kent and West Sussex.
The specifications of the Sand Lizard are:
Size: Length (including tail): up to 8.0 inches (20.3 centimetres)
Young: Eggs are laid in late May/early June and buried in sand for warmth; eggs hatch between late August and September
Diet: Invertebrates, including insects, spiders and slugs
Habitat: Dry sandy heathland and coastal sand dunes
This is the only egg-laying lizard in the UK. It has dark blotches across the back. Males develop bright green flanks to attract females during the mating season.
Post Cards:
Post Cards have been issued featuring the beautiful visuals of all six Special Stamps included in the Reintroduced Species Stamp Set:
Images of the Osprey Stamp Post Card are included here for illustration
Links to some other interesting posts from the British Isles and British Overseas Territories:
Central Bank of Ireland issues:
Bank of England Banknotes:
1) A Ten Pounds Banknote issued on Charles Dickens (Writer) also depicting a cricket match from his novel "The Pickwick Papers"
2) A Ten Pound Banknote issued on Charles Darwin (English Naturalist) also depicting the HMS Beagle, Darwin's magnifying glass, a humming-bird & flora that he may have seen on his voyage.
3) A Five Pounds Banknote issued on George Stephenson (an Engineer) also depicting "Rocket" his Railway Locomotive and Skeene Bridge on the Stockton Darlington Railway (1825) - since withdrawn
6) Jane Austen: features on the second circulating Polymer Banknote of 10 Pounds denomination to be released on 14.09.2017
Inspirations from Scottish History (Clydesdale Bank Banknotes):
1) The Legend of King Bruce & the Spider on Banknotes
2) Commemorating Sir William Arrol and his creation the Forth Rail Bridge by issues of Britain's first ever 5 Pound Polymer Banknote
Banknotes from Bank of Scotland:
1) The Ryder Cup Commemorative Banknote: A 5 Pounds Banknote issued by the Royal Bank of Scotland in 2014
British Crown Dependencies:
1) Specimen Banknotes from the States of Jersey
2) Coinage and Currency from the States of Jersey
3) Currency & Coinage of the Bailiwick of Guernsey
4) Currency & Coinage of Gibraltar : An Overseas Territory of Great Britain
5) Coinage of Gibraltar: (A British Overseas Territory): An Uncirculated Decimal Coin Collection Set minted by the Tower Mint, UK in 2010
6) The Isle of Man: An Uncirculated Decimal Coin Collection Set minted by Pobjoy Mint, UK in 2015
7) The Centenary of the ill-fated Titanic (15.04.1912 - 15.04.2012): An Alderney Five Pound Coin Commemorating the Maritime Legend
8) "Man of Steel": A Superman Movie: A set of stamps brought out in 2013 by Jersey post, the States of Jersey, commemorating Henry William Dalgliesh Cavill who played Superman in the Movie
9) Coins & Currency of Bermuda
10) The Bailiwick of Jersey - Presently circulating coinage - Pounds and Pence
11) St. Helena & Ascension Islands: An Uncirculated Coin Set from 2003
12) The Legend of the "HMAV Bounty" is interwoven with the heritage of the Pitcairn Islands: An uncirculated coin set from Pitcairn Islands in 2009 depicting the icons/relics of the Bounty minted by the New Zealand Mint
13) Currency of the Falkland Islands: A British Overseas Territory (BOT) Pounds & Pence
14) Falkland Islands Penguins: 50 Pence Coin Series: The first Coin in the Series of four coins: the Rock-Hopper Penguin
15) Falkland Islands Penguins: 50 Pence Coin Series: The Gentoo Penguin:Second Coin in the series of four coins issued on 20.06.2017
17) The Siren: British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT): A silver Double crown (Four Pounds) : First coin in the series titled "Mythical Creatures) issued by the Pobjoy Mint UK on 03.04.2018
18) The Minotaur: British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT):A Silver Double crown (4 Pounds), 2 Oz High relief Coin with antique Finish: Second Coin in the Series titled :Mythical Creatures: issued by Pobjoy Mint, UK on behalf of BIOT on 15.06.2018
Famous Battles:
1) Bicentenary of the Battle of Waterloo and Napoleon's Exile to St. Helena: (Part I): A One Crown Commemorative coin issued by the Ascension Island (minted by Pobjoy Mint UK)
2) Bicentenary of the Battle of Waterloo and Napoleon's Exile to st. Helena: (Part II) 1) A 5 GBP Coin issued by the Royal Mint UK. 2) A"Drie Landen Zilverset" ( ot the "Three Lands Silver set") containing coins issued by the Royal Dutch Mint including coins of Netherlands, Belgium and UK
3) Commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain by issuing a 50 Pence coin by the Royal Mint UK
Gold Coins:
1) Gold Sovereigns issued in 2013 & 2014 by MMTC-PAMP in India under licence from the Royal Mint, UK, carrying the "I" Mint Mark
2) Gold Half-Sovereigns minted by MMTC-PAMP in India in 2014 under licence from the Royal Mint UK bearing the "I" Mint Mark
Silver Coins:
1) A 20 Pound Silver coin minted for the first timr by the royal Mint UK: reverse design carries the famous St. George slaying the dragon design found on Gold Sovereigns
British India Coinage:
1) East India Company Quarter Anna Copper Coin which is one of the first issues under the Coinage Act 1835
2) Victoria Coinage: When she was Queen and afterwards Empress
3) Edward VII: King & Emperor Coinage
4) George V King Emperor Coinage
5) George VI: The last of the British India Emperors Coinage
Other British Royalty:
1) Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee Celebrations (1952-2012): A Five Pound Commemorative coin issued by the Royal Mint, UK
2) Commemorating Queen Elizabeth II's Coronation in 1953: A Five Pound Coin minted by the Royal Mint UK in 2013, depicting the Imperial State Crown
3) The Royal Coat of Arms of the UK: Great British 2012 Coin Set (Uncirculated) issued by the Royal Mint UK
4) Prince George's Christening Ceremony celebrated with coins issued by the Royal Mint UK in 2013
5) The British Empire: A Case of Numismatic "segregation": (Guest Post by Rahul Kumar)
6) 1) The Portrait Collection: Various Portraits of Queen Elizabeth II on Coinage 2) The Fourth & Final Circulating coinage of the Portrait designed by Ian Rank-Broadley and the First Edition of the portrait of the Queen made by Jody Clark
British Coinage:
1) The contribution of the Great British One-Pound coins in keeping alive the historical legends/emblems/heritage of the UK (1983 onwards)
2) Transformation of a Five shilling Coin (Crown) into the UK Twenty-five Pence & then the Five Pound Coin
3) Transformation of the Two Shilling Coin (Florin) Coin into the UK Ten Pence
4) The 350th Anniversary of the Guinea: A Two Pound Coin issued by the Royal Mint UK celebrating the milestone
5) The new 12-sided One Pound UK Coin introduced into circulation on 28.03.2017
Commemorative British Coinage:
1) Commemorating the Bicentenary of Charles Dickens: A Two pound coin celebrating his literary contributions during the Victorian Era
2) Commemorating 50 Years of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) - presently called the World Wide Fund for Nature by issue of a Fifty Pence coin by the Royal Mint, UK
3) Coins commemorating London Olympics & Paralympics (2012)
4) Commemorating 150 Years of the London Underground : Two pound Coins minted by the Royal Mint UK, showing the "Roundel" logo and a train emerging from a tunnel
5) Commemorating the 100th Birth anniversary of Christopher Ironside with his " Royal Arms" design on a 50 Pence coin issued by the Royal Mint, UK
Links to some other interesting posts from the British Isles and British Overseas Territories:
Central Bank of Ireland issues:
Bank of England Banknotes:
1) A Ten Pounds Banknote issued on Charles Dickens (Writer) also depicting a cricket match from his novel "The Pickwick Papers"
2) A Ten Pound Banknote issued on Charles Darwin (English Naturalist) also depicting the HMS Beagle, Darwin's magnifying glass, a humming-bird & flora that he may have seen on his voyage.
3) A Five Pounds Banknote issued on George Stephenson (an Engineer) also depicting "Rocket" his Railway Locomotive and Skeene Bridge on the Stockton Darlington Railway (1825) - since withdrawn
6) Jane Austen: features on the second circulating Polymer Banknote of 10 Pounds denomination to be released on 14.09.2017
Inspirations from Scottish History (Clydesdale Bank Banknotes):
1) The Legend of King Bruce & the Spider on Banknotes
2) Commemorating Sir William Arrol and his creation the Forth Rail Bridge by issues of Britain's first ever 5 Pound Polymer Banknote
Banknotes from Bank of Scotland:
1) The Ryder Cup Commemorative Banknote: A 5 Pounds Banknote issued by the Royal Bank of Scotland in 2014
British Crown Dependencies:
1) Specimen Banknotes from the States of Jersey
2) Coinage and Currency from the States of Jersey
3) Currency & Coinage of the Bailiwick of Guernsey
4) Currency & Coinage of Gibraltar : An Overseas Territory of Great Britain
5) Coinage of Gibraltar: (A British Overseas Territory): An Uncirculated Decimal Coin Collection Set minted by the Tower Mint, UK in 2010
6) The Isle of Man: An Uncirculated Decimal Coin Collection Set minted by Pobjoy Mint, UK in 2015
7) The Centenary of the ill-fated Titanic (15.04.1912 - 15.04.2012): An Alderney Five Pound Coin Commemorating the Maritime Legend
8) "Man of Steel": A Superman Movie: A set of stamps brought out in 2013 by Jersey post, the States of Jersey, commemorating Henry William Dalgliesh Cavill who played Superman in the Movie
9) Coins & Currency of Bermuda
10) The Bailiwick of Jersey - Presently circulating coinage - Pounds and Pence
11) St. Helena & Ascension Islands: An Uncirculated Coin Set from 2003
12) The Legend of the "HMAV Bounty" is interwoven with the heritage of the Pitcairn Islands: An uncirculated coin set from Pitcairn Islands in 2009 depicting the icons/relics of the Bounty minted by the New Zealand Mint
13) Currency of the Falkland Islands: A British Overseas Territory (BOT) Pounds & Pence
14) Falkland Islands Penguins: 50 Pence Coin Series: The first Coin in the Series of four coins: the Rock-Hopper Penguin
15) Falkland Islands Penguins: 50 Pence Coin Series: The Gentoo Penguin:Second Coin in the series of four coins issued on 20.06.2017
17) The Siren: British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT): A silver Double crown (Four Pounds) : First coin in the series titled "Mythical Creatures) issued by the Pobjoy Mint UK on 03.04.2018
18) The Minotaur: British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT):A Silver Double crown (4 Pounds), 2 Oz High relief Coin with antique Finish: Second Coin in the Series titled :Mythical Creatures: issued by Pobjoy Mint, UK on behalf of BIOT on 15.06.2018
19) The Isle of Man: A British Crown Dependency (BCD) Coinage: A newly introduced Collector's circulation Currency Coinage Collector's set received from the Tower Mint, London, UK issued in April 2017
20) Pegasus: British Virgin Islands: A gold Bullion Coin of $100 issued by Pobjoy Mint on belalf og British Virgin Islands in July 2018
20) Pegasus: British Virgin Islands: A gold Bullion Coin of $100 issued by Pobjoy Mint on belalf og British Virgin Islands in July 2018
Famous Battles:
1) Bicentenary of the Battle of Waterloo and Napoleon's Exile to St. Helena: (Part I): A One Crown Commemorative coin issued by the Ascension Island (minted by Pobjoy Mint UK)
2) Bicentenary of the Battle of Waterloo and Napoleon's Exile to st. Helena: (Part II) 1) A 5 GBP Coin issued by the Royal Mint UK. 2) A"Drie Landen Zilverset" ( ot the "Three Lands Silver set") containing coins issued by the Royal Dutch Mint including coins of Netherlands, Belgium and UK
3) Commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain by issuing a 50 Pence coin by the Royal Mint UK
Gold Coins:
1) Gold Sovereigns issued in 2013 & 2014 by MMTC-PAMP in India under licence from the Royal Mint, UK, carrying the "I" Mint Mark
2) Gold Half-Sovereigns minted by MMTC-PAMP in India in 2014 under licence from the Royal Mint UK bearing the "I" Mint Mark
Silver Coins:
1) A 20 Pound Silver coin minted for the first timr by the royal Mint UK: reverse design carries the famous St. George slaying the dragon design found on Gold Sovereigns
British India Coinage:
1) East India Company Quarter Anna Copper Coin which is one of the first issues under the Coinage Act 1835
2) Victoria Coinage: When she was Queen and afterwards Empress
3) Edward VII: King & Emperor Coinage
4) George V King Emperor Coinage
5) George VI: The last of the British India Emperors Coinage
Other British Royalty:
1) Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee Celebrations (1952-2012): A Five Pound Commemorative coin issued by the Royal Mint, UK
2) Commemorating Queen Elizabeth II's Coronation in 1953: A Five Pound Coin minted by the Royal Mint UK in 2013, depicting the Imperial State Crown
3) The Royal Coat of Arms of the UK: Great British 2012 Coin Set (Uncirculated) issued by the Royal Mint UK
4) Prince George's Christening Ceremony celebrated with coins issued by the Royal Mint UK in 2013
5) The British Empire: A Case of Numismatic "segregation": (Guest Post by Rahul Kumar)
6) 1) The Portrait Collection: Various Portraits of Queen Elizabeth II on Coinage 2) The Fourth & Final Circulating coinage of the Portrait designed by Ian Rank-Broadley and the First Edition of the portrait of the Queen made by Jody Clark
British Coinage:
1) The contribution of the Great British One-Pound coins in keeping alive the historical legends/emblems/heritage of the UK (1983 onwards)
2) Transformation of a Five shilling Coin (Crown) into the UK Twenty-five Pence & then the Five Pound Coin
3) Transformation of the Two Shilling Coin (Florin) Coin into the UK Ten Pence
4) The 350th Anniversary of the Guinea: A Two Pound Coin issued by the Royal Mint UK celebrating the milestone
5) The new 12-sided One Pound UK Coin introduced into circulation on 28.03.2017
Commemorative British Coinage:
1) Commemorating the Bicentenary of Charles Dickens: A Two pound coin celebrating his literary contributions during the Victorian Era
2) Commemorating 50 Years of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) - presently called the World Wide Fund for Nature by issue of a Fifty Pence coin by the Royal Mint, UK
3) Coins commemorating London Olympics & Paralympics (2012)
4) Commemorating 150 Years of the London Underground : Two pound Coins minted by the Royal Mint UK, showing the "Roundel" logo and a train emerging from a tunnel
5) Commemorating the 100th Birth anniversary of Christopher Ironside with his " Royal Arms" design on a 50 Pence coin issued by the Royal Mint, UK
The Queen's Beasts Coin Series, UK issues:
Links: Postage Stamps:
Anoop Banerjee has commented:
ReplyDelete"Rajeev, the binoculars are tantalising."
I totally agree, Anoopda. Actually, the description in my post on the reintroduced species is about spotting these six species through their characteristics and a spotter is handicapped without the binocs. I have omitted stuff like what to wear, what to carry etc. on these trips given in detail on the narration which goes with this stamp set.
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