1924-25 British Empire Exhibition ‘Wembleys’ Used Stamp Collection

Opportunity to own the first ever British Commemorative Stamps issued 100 years ago!

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the United Kingdom's first-ever commemorative stamps, issued in honour of the 1924 British Empire Exhibition. These stamps are not just pieces of paper; they are fragments of history, narrating a story of perseverance, pride, and a nation's post-war resurgence.

Its main aim was to raise the country’s spirits after the First World War and to stimulate trade and strengthen bonds amongst the 58 British Empire countries. The hugely ambitious exhibition was the very first time the British Post Office issued commemorative postage stamps. As a result, this issue is an essential addition to any collection.

Unveiling a Philatelic Masterpiece

Back in 1924, the British Empire Exhibition at Wembley was more than just an event; it was a symbol of unity, strength, and the indomitable spirit of a nation recovering from the ravages of the First World War. To commemorate this historic occasion, Royal Mail issued its very first set of commemorative stamps. Today, they stand as beacons of a bygone era, a tangible connection to our past.

The Essence of a Historical Epoch

The 1924-25 British Empire Exhibition stamps are a celebration of British artistry and craftsmanship. Designed by Harold Nelson, these stamps feature the iconic British Lion and a portrait of King George V, a design that resonated with the pride and valour of the British Empire. The meticulous craftsmanship of these stamps captures the essence of an epoch that shaped modern Britain.

Indeed, so universally popular were the two initial ‘Wembley’ stamps with the public that both designs were reprinted in exactly the same colours in 1925 when the exhibition re-opened with only a change to the year of issue. This has resulted in the set featuring a total of four stamps.

Key Issue Information:

• Opportunity to own the first ever British Commemorative Stamp Collection issused 100 years ago in fine used condition
• Released to coincide with the largest ever exhibition staged anywhere in the world at the time
• The iconic designs feature an imposing British Lion and was intended to symbolise the British Empire
• In 2015 the official Stanley Gibbons Catalogue value for fine used example of the British Empire Exhibition Stamps has risen 50% over 20 years*
• All four stamps housed together in one Deluxe Presentation Folder with Certificate

*2023 Stanley Gibbons Catalogue price for fine used example