The first part of this article (Stamp Collector, January 2023) looked at the values from ½d to 3d, which covered most of the basic rates during this reign. This month will look at the remaining low values from 4d to 1s.
These were mainly general values at the time they were issued, and for much of the period, the main solo usage for the values from 6d upwards was probably for parcel post rates. However, as parcel wrappings (or large pieces showing the usage) were seldom kept, examples can be difficult to find. More often the stamps appear in combination with other values, and the solo usages seen are typically for higher weight steps, and/or include payments for additional services.
However, later in the reign changes in airmail rates (detailed below) meant new solo uses for many of these stamps. Some of these did not come into effect until after the accession of Queen Elizabeth II –
