Queen Elizabeth II Machin Definitive

United Kingdom · 1967 · 4d

This definitive stamp features the iconic profile of Queen Elizabeth II, a design by Arnold Machin. The simple, elegant portrait, set against a solid color background, became one of the most reproduced images in history. Known as the 'Machin series', it has been in continuous use since 1967, with variations in color, denomination, and printing techniques over the decades.

Introduced in 1967 to replace the 'Wilding' series, the Machin definitive series marked a new era in British stamp design, celebrated for its timeless and classical aesthetic. The design was based on a plaster cast created by sculptor Arnold Machin.