October 2024

Contents to Volume 55, Number 5

A collection of the latest philatelic news from around the world.

More of the latest reports from the nation’s philatelic societies.

Forthcoming fairs and auctions.

News of recent auction results.

Richard West profiles another great philatelist, James Ludovic Lindsay, 26th Earl of Crawford, who created one of the world’s most renowned philatelic libraries.

Royal Mail’s latest issues includes a set of six stamps and miniature sheet dedicated to the iconic Tower of London, and a new collection commemorating 50 years of the British TV comedy series Porridge.

Explore a rare chapter of British naval history with Peter Chadwick as he uncovers the unique Boatman postal service, which delivered letters to press-ganged sailors held on ships along the River Thames.

In his latest report on modern British stamp collecting John Deering reveals more details on the newly discovered King Charles III 1st Large counter sheet stamps and provides a comprehensive guide to the various service indicators and designs in the Mail by Bike Post & Go issue.

The latest supplement to the Stanley Gibbons Great Britain Specialised Catalogue.

Neil Donen continues his in-depth exploration of the Madame Joseph forged postmarks, this time focusing on newly uncovered forgeries associated with the 1935 Silver Jubilee stamps from the Dominions.

The latest books and catalogues read and rated.

Michael Peach explores the significance of the 1863 Paris Conference, where 15 nations, including the USA, sought to standardise the chaotic international mail system. This pivotal event laid the foundation for the Universal Postal Union in 1874.

Michael Burzan examines the pioneering, citywide mail service introduced in Paris in 1653, which included a precursor to the postage stamp nearly two centuries before the Penny Black.

David Beech, former Curator of the British Library Philatelic Collections and Fellow and Past President of the Royal Philatelic Society London, provides an introduction to a new term that has recently entered into philatelic circles ­– Context Philately.

Stamps to look out for from Malta.

Dr Steven Allain explores how the unique characteristics of turtle and tortoise species from around the world have been immortalised on stamps.

This year sees the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. Andrew Higson reveals how the nation’s shift from Nationalist to Communist rule is reflected in its stamps with an examination of Shanghai’s contemporary postal history.

The evolution of Hong Kong’s stamps from British Colonial rule to its status as a Special Administrative Region of China is explored in another of Noel Davenhill’s popular series of articles.

Another selection of postal stationery items from around the world are discussed by Peter van Gelder.

Pick up some expert tips on safeguarding your stamps from climate change, humidity, pests, and other threats, to ensure that your prized collection remains in top condition.

We highlight the latest new issues from Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.

GSM investigates the stories behind some of the latest stamp issues from around the world.

A summary of recent and forthcoming issues.

Don’t miss your chance to win a free 12-month subscription to GSM.

Hugh Jefferies offers more thoughts from the Catalogue Editor’s chair.

The latest, 14-page update to the Stanley Gibbons Catalogue.