Queen Elizabeth II Centenary Stamps will appeal to collectors around the world
The centenary stamps released on 21 April 2026, to mark what would have been the 100th birthday of Queen Elizabeth II, are a collection of 12 beautiful images of the late Queen that will appeal to collectors around the world.
The stamps tell the story of Queen Elizabeth II’s life through the years, through black and white and colour images, from childhood to the last years of her life, reflecting her public appearances as well as her more private moments.
Four of the stamps focus on her love of animals, particularly her Corgis and horses, and depict her with them in locations closely associated with her life, from Balmoral to Windsor. Emma Moores, owner of Cotswold & Stuart Covers Ltd, one of the oldest stamp collecting businesses in the UK, believes that these stamps will become sought-after collectors’ items, not only for admirers of the Queen, but also for those interested in the history of the British monarchy.
As a globally iconic figurehead, the late Queen witnessed and shaped decades of change, meeting countless world leaders and members of the public over her 96-year life, so these glimpses into her life on the stamps will be of interest to many.
"What makes this collection particularly appealing is its intimacy. By showing the Queen in quieter, more personal moments with her animals, the stamps offer a glimpse beyond the formality of royal duty. This feels like a fitting tribute to her on this anniversary; one that reflects how she might have wished to be remembered.
Stamp collecting itself reached a peak in popularity during the early decades of her reign, particularly in the 1950s, 60s and 70s. Over that time, her profile became one of the most recognisable images in the world, appearing in many variations across stamps. In that sense, her influence on stamp collecting is undeniable."