The UK Royal Mail are celebrating the best in British motor cars with the issue of the ‘British Auto Legends’ stamp collection.
Released today, the collection features six of the most stylish and iconic British cars, including a 1964 MGB Roadster owned by John Watson, Chairman of the MG Car Club’s MGB Register.
The MG Car Club are delighted to see a MGB included in the collection. John’s Iris Blue MGB is a stunning example of one of the worlds most loved sports cars.
John was first approached by the Royal Mail in May of 2011, when his car was selected to make up a six stamp set of thoroughbreds. Twelve months later and just days before the MGB 50 festival at Blenheim Palace, John’s car was in a London studio being photographed by James Mann.
Andrew Hammond, Director of Stamps and Collectibles for the Royal Mail said: “This is a fantastic set of stamps that feature a collection of the very best in British motor car manufacturing in the 1960s and 70s.
“These cars are classic in every sense; and we are delighted to be bringing a reminder of these iconic motor cars to the nation’s doorsteps through this latest stamp issue.”
The stamps and other related memorabilia are available online by clicking here or by phone on 08457 641 641. The stamps as well as some of the other items can be bought over the counter in over 10,000 Post Offices throughout the UK.
The cars featured on the stamps are:
Jaguar E-Type — 1961
Arguably the most beautiful car in history, the Jaguar E-Type’s stunning looks and 150mph performance created a worldwide sensation when it was launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1961.
MG MGB — 1962
Blending sleek good looks with affordability, the MGB quickly became the world’s most popular roadster, leading to overall sales of more than 500,000 cars before its sad demise in 1980.
Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow — 1965
The epitome of automotive elegance, the Silver Shadow combined traditional charm with modern technology to create a car offering quite unsurpassable standards of refinement and comfort.
Morgan Plus 8 — 1968
With looks that were considered retro even when it was launched, the wooden framed Plus 8 nevertheless enjoyed worldwide popularity, thanks largely to the exciting driving experience it offered.
Aston Martin DB5 — 1963
The archetypal Grand Tourer, the Aston Martin DB5 was capable of 150mph, and quickly gained iconic status following its role as Sean Connery’s lethal co-star in the James Bond classic Goldfinger.
Lotus Esprit — 1976
With the Esprit, Colin Chapman created a mid-engined machine more than capable of challenging the old guard of supercars. It also famously transformed into a submarine for The Spy Who Loved Me.