King George V came to the throne on 6 May 1910. As the 70th anniversary of the Penny Black, it was an appropriate date for the accession of a monarch who would become known as the ‘philatelist King’ and one of the most renowned stamp collectors of his time.

As Duke of York, Prince George was already a keen collector, and wrote to his philatelic adviser, JA Tilleard: "I wish to have the best collection & not one of the best collections in England".

During his reign the British Empire reached its zenith, though it also began its transition into Commonwealth. The age was one of innovation, creativity and expansion. It was also one of poverty, conflict and mass unemployment. Stamps are a microcosm of the age and those of the reign of King George V reflect their time. During the King's reign, innovation and creativity found remarkably fertile ground across all the activities of the General Post Office (GPO).

King George V riding his horse, Anzac

King George V's horse, Anzac, was a gift from the Australian government.

The photograph (below left) was used as the basis for the Australian Silver Jubilee stamps, issued in 1935.

King Edward VII 2 pence Tyrian Plum

In May 1910 it was proposed to issue the new 2d stamp in a single colour – Tyrian Plum.

Although almost 200,000 sheets were printed, King Edward VII died before the stamp could be issued. Only one example was ever used, sent on 5 May by the Inland Revenue to George V when he was still Prince of Wales. It arrived the following day, the day his father's death made him the new King.

(below centre) Unique perforated sheet (minus 1) of the 2d Tyrian Plum.
Catalogue Reference: POST 150/946 BPMA

(below right) Unique used example of 2d Tyrian Plum on cover to Prince of Wales.
Catalogue Reference: VA/Ex Y RPC

Illustrations

King George V riding his horse, Anzac

Tyrian Plum perforated sheet

Tyrian Plum on cover