British Postal Markings

The study of postal markings is often called “postal history” although this term can be more widely applied.

Postal markings include datestamps, rate markings and indications of the origin, route and arrival of mail. With more modern mail they also show evidence of automatic cancelling and sorting.

BPMA’s extensive collections cover all these but are largely not public record. We have a number of examples of different types of handstruck postal markings.

Postal markings albums

The BPMA also holds more than 200 albums dating from before and after the introduction of the first adhesive postage stamp in 1840.  These include:

• entire letters
  
• covers
• envelopes
  
• postcards
  
• postal stationery
  

They also contain studies of particular markings for penny posts and for the various transport systems:

• ships
• railways
• airmail
  

There are also a number of studies of specific types of postmarks including:

• Provincial Penny Post/5th clause
• Mileage Marks
• Missent and Misdirected Mail
• Ship Letters
  
• India Letters
• 'Paid at' Stamps
• Postal reform
  

Frank Staff collections

Three major collections of postal markings were obtained from Frank Staff, a well-known postal historian. One of the Staff collections charts the history of the Penny Post from its private beginnings in 1680 in London by William Dockwra. The other two collections are his studies of markings on maritime mail and transatlantic mail up to the beginning of the 20th century.

Access

The best way to see all our philatelic and postal history collections is by appointment with the Curator of Philately, Douglas Muir. To make an appointment, please call 020 7239 2570 or email info@postalheritage.org.uk.