Royal Mail, Natural History Museum Drop Prehistoric Stamp Collection

The Royal Mail has revealed images of eight stamps that include dinosaurs and other prehistoric reptiles from the Jurassic and Cretaceous eras, created in collaboration with the Natural History Museum, consulting with scientists specializing in various areas of paleontology. 

The new designs, by Exeter-based, digital concept illustrator, Joshua Dunlop, combine scientific accuracy, provided by the Natural History Museum’s paleontology department, with an artistic homage to the wonders of paleontology. Dinosaurs depicted in the collection include Tyrannosaurus, Triceratops, Coloborhynchus, Iguanodon, Stegosaurus, Diplodocus, Megalosaurus and Cryptoclidus.

An additional sheet of four stamps recognizes the contribution of paleontologist, Mary Anning, one of the first professional fossil hunters.

“We were thrilled to feature incredible dinosaurs from the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex to graceful Diplodocus as well as other fascinating prehistoric reptiles in their natural habitats,” says David Gold, director, external affairs and policy, Royal Mail. “It is fitting in the week of International Women’s Day that we pay tribute to Mary Anning with four images of some of the fossils she discovered. She was one of the greatest fossil hunters of the 19th century, making a major contribution to our understanding of the majestic creatures that roamed the Earth hundreds of millions of years ago.”

“We were thrilled when Royal Mail approached us to collaborate on these brilliant sets of stamps,” says Maxine Lister, head, licensing, the Natural History Museum. “It’s perfect timing too, as we have just celebrated the 200th anniversary since the naming of the first dinosaur: the Megalosaurus, which features as part of this collection. Our mission is to create advocates for the planet, and we hope these stunning designs inspire everyone to discover a bit more about our natural world, whether that be the creatures that lived here before us, or the pioneering figures who shaped our understanding of them today.”

The stamps, as well as a range of collectible products, are available to preorder now. A Presentation Pack, including all eight stamps, go on general sale on March 12.