Description: This stamp features a central portrait of Queen Elizabeth II facing slightly left, based on the famous Dorothy Wilding photograph and dressed in ceremonial attire with the state diadem. The portrait is flanked on both sides by ornate laurel branches and royal coronation regalia set against a rich carmine-red background field. On the left side, the design depicts the Imperial State Crown placed above the Sovereign's Orb, alongside the Sceptre with Cross. The right side mirrors this layout with a second representation of the crown positioned above the Ampulla eagle and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Dove. The text reading POSTAGE REVENUE stretches across the bottom border, flanked on the far left by the 2½d denomination. This specific used copy carries a highly legible, dark circular date stamp postal cancellation from Dartford dated October 6, 1953.
Circa: 1953
Condition: Used
Notes:
This issue holds immense historical importance as the very first commemorative stamp set produced for the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, breaking the long-standing tradition of only issuing basic definitive stamps. Designed by Edmund Dulac, this stamp represents his final artistic contribution to British philately, as he sadly passed away just a few flags after its official release.