Questions and Answers on stamps and postboxes

What happens to stamps I have already purchased? Are they still valid? If so, how long for?

Unused stamps that have already been issued remain valid for use. These include Definitive stamps (those that show the Queen Elizabeth’s head against a plain background) and Special Stamps. 

As previously announced, following the introduction of barcodes to everyday stamps, these stamps remain valid until the end of January 2023. Full details of our Swap Out programme can be found here.

Will the cypher on post boxes be changed to reflect the new monarch?

In line with past practice, following the death of a monarch all existing post boxes will remain unchanged. Postboxes already in production or being prepared for installation, will also retain the insignia of Queen Elizabeth II.

Will the Special Issue stamps that have been announced for later this year still be released as originally planned?

All Special Stamps that have already been announced will be issued, though the launch dates may be amended. We will make further announcements at the appropriate time after consultation with Buckingham Palace.

When will stamps be issued showing King Charles?

We will announce future stamp issues at the appropriate time. We will consult Buckingham Palace in the usual way before making any further announcements. For now, we remember the Queen’s lifetime of dedication to public service. There are sufficient stocks to fulfil anticipated demand.

Will postal deliveries continue as normal on the day of the funeral?

Following the announcement that HM The Queen’s state funeral will be marked as a Bank Holiday, Royal Mail services will be suspended on Monday 19 September.

Where can I see all the images of GB stamps that featured Queen Elizabeth II?

A gallery of GB stamps on which The Queen featured is available on the Royal Mail Group website here.