King George V Memorial

United Kingdom · 1936 · 1½d

This stamp was the first of a set of four issued to commemorate the death of King George V. The design features a portrait of the late king in his naval uniform, based on a photograph by Bertram Park, set within a simple yet dignified purple frame. The inscription reads '1865 KING GEORGE V 1936' at the top and 'POSTAGE REVENUE' at the bottom.

Issued on May 1, 1936, this stamp marked the United Kingdom's first-ever commemorative issue, breaking from the tradition of only depicting the reigning monarch. It was part of the mourning period following the king's death in January of that year.