New Machin 34p definitive stamp - 6 May 2003

After much discussion and wrangling with the Post Office Regulator, Royal Mail was permitted to increase inland and European postage rates. The inland 1st class rate increased from 27p to 28p; the 2nd class rate from 19p to 20p; the price of the basic European rate ('E') stamp increased from 37p to 38p.

There were no new 28p, 20p or E stamps, but a new 34p stamp was needed for the 60gr-100gr 2nd class rate. A 42p stamp already existed for the similar 1st class rate. The new stamp is printed in gravure by De La Rue.

The existing 20p, 33p & 41p stamps - all with two phosphor bands - were withdrawn from general sale on 7 May.

Norvic Philatelics serviced only Post Office first day covers for these stamps, with single 34p stamp for £1.60
Postmarks available on the day of this issue:

Ref FD331 - Bureau 'Scottish Coat of Arms' postmark	REf FD332 - Windsor 'English Coat of Arms' postmark	Ref E4680 - Windsor Castle, Royal Mail permanent handstamp	Ref E7748 - Bath Postal Museum, Postal History Brought to Life	Ref W8331 - Centenary of the Old Post Office Tintagel