This month, the Royal Mail has launched a stunning commemorative stamp set featuring ten beautifully illustrated watercolor depictions of various roses. Released on February 26, the set not only showcases the visual beauty of these flowers but also narrates their historical evolution. The collection includes two strips of stamps, with one designated as first-class (valued at £1.70) and the other as second-class (valued at 87 pence), providing great options for stamp collectors.
Among the featured roses are native wild types, including the dog rose and the field rose, as well as celebrated cultivars like ‘Peace’ and ‘Constance Spry,’ the latter being a significant creation of British rose breeder David Austin. This set commemorates Austin's legacy, as he would have turned 100 on February 16. The stamps incorporate a rich narrative about the transformation of roses from wild species to modern hybrids since the 1700s, when Chinese roses were introduced, revolutionizing rose breeding.
For collectors, the stamps are available in sheets of 50 and come with a presentation pack detailing the history of roses, narrated by horticultural historian Jennifer Potter. Additionally, unique first-day covers and postcards are available, enhancing the collectability of this stunning series. To learn more about this impressive stamp set, visit this website.