The death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022 created a shift for the monarchy in Great Britain. This alteration has left many wondering whether postage stamps featuring her image are still valid. By November 10, 2024, learn which stamps are still good and how to use or trade them.
Switch to Stamps of King Charles III
Royal Mail issued King Charles III stamps after the death of the Queen. His image was published in the first definitive stamps on 4 April 2023. These stamps show an uncrowned effigy of the King, following the long-standing practice of using a profile image of whichever reigning monarch is in place on postage stamps.
Validity of Queen Elizabeth II Stamps
Stamps showing Queen Elizabeth II remain usable, as long as:
Stamps with barcodes: The stamp is valid for postage, if it includes a barcode.
Non-Barcoded Stamps: As of July 31, 2023, stamps lacking a barcode have ceased to be valid. This resealing was one of the changes initiated by Royal Mail to modernize and secure postage stamps.
‘Swap Out Scheme’ from Royal Mail
The ‘Swap Out’ scheme was introduced by Royal Mail to help customers with non-barcoded stamps. This initiative enables us to swap out your non-barcoded stamps for the newer, barcoded ones at no cost. To participate:
Obtain a Swap Out Form: Available on the Royal Mail website or at local Post Offices.
Complete the Form: Provide the necessary details and include the non-barcoded stamps.
Send the Form and Stamps: Mail them to the designated Royal Mail address.
All exchanges will be processed by Royal Mail within seven working days.
Quarter page introduction of King Charles III banknotes
The Bank of England also unveiled banknotes bearing King Charles III, in addition to stamps. On June 5, 2024, these notes entered into circulation and were available in £5, £10, £20 or £50 denominations. It preserves the existing image on the reverse side but replaces the late queen’s portrait with that of the king on the front. The gradual introduction of the notes will limit the environmental effects, as it is hoped that worn banknotes can be replaced and demand is expected to increase over time therefore aiding existing documents.
How Valuable are Stamps of Queen Elizabeth II
While non-barcoded stamps are no longer valid for postage, they may hold collectible value. Collectors often seek stamps from significant historical periods, and those featuring Queen Elizabeth II are no exception. The value depends on factors such as rarity, condition, and demand among philatelists.
