Royal Mail drops smashing new stamps to mark 350 years of Royal Observatory Greenwich! Founded by King Charles II in 1675, this iconic site changed the game in astronomy, navigation, and timekeeping – and now it’s being celebrated in style.
Six Stamps Showcase Legendary Scientific Gear
The main set of six stamps highlights the observatory’s star players, featuring:
- Airy Transit Circle Telescope
- Flamsteed House
- Great Equatorial Telescope – the UK’s largest refracting telescope
- Annie Maunder Astrographic Telescope
- Prime Meridian
- Shepherd Gate Clock
These icons celebrate centuries of breakthroughs in astronomical research and global timekeeping.
“We are proud to honour the Royal Observatory’s 350th anniversary with a set of stamps that celebrate its enduring legacy in advancing our understanding of the universe,” said David Gold, Royal Mail’s Director of External Affairs and Policy.
John Harrison’s Timekeepers Get Their Own Stamp Set
A second mini-set of four stamps pays tribute to clockmaker John Harrison. His revolutionary marine chronometers solved the infamous longitude problem, transforming British maritime navigation forever.
- Harrison’s four prototype marine chronometers
- A nod to the 250th anniversary of his death in 2026
Saluting a Scientific Legend
The new stamps brilliantly capture the Royal Observatory Greenwich’s vital role in modern science – from mapping the stars to setting Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), the world’s timekeeper.
“We are delighted to have partnered with Royal Mail to celebrate six key moments in the 350-year history of the Royal Observatory,” said Dr Louise Devoy, Senior Curator at the Royal Observatory.
Get Ready to Collect – Pre-Order Now!
The stunning stamps and exclusive collectible sets are available for pre-order now. Grab yours ahead of the official launch on 12 June 2025 from the Royal Mail website and selected post offices.
