New Royal Mail stamp collection honours legend of Robin Hood
Royal Mail has issued a series of illustrated stamps in tribute to Nottinghamshire’s legendary folklore bandit.
The stamps, which went on sale on April 13, depict a series of memorable scenes from the world-famous tales of Robin Hood, including the outlaw’s marriage to Maid Marian, the legendary archery contest which Robin enters, and wins, in disguise, and his death.
The 10-stamp series also features Robin Hood’s famous comrades, the Merry Men, and his mortal enemy, The Sheriff of Nottingham.
Also featured is a depiction of the moment Robin Hood is declared an outlaw, his first combative meeting with Little John in Sherwood Forest, and in Sherwood Forest, and the Merry Men robbing from the rich.
The stamp portraying Robin’s death shows the moment, told in several versions of the legend when the outlaw fires an arrow out of a window from his deathbed. The place where the arrow landed is said to be where he was later buried.
Royal Mail has commissioned the series to honour the “enduring legend of Robin Hood”, which is held dear in Nottingham above all places.
Royal Mail director of external Affairs & policy David Gold said: “These atmospheric illustrations bring to life the timeless stories of the Legend of Robin Hood, his merry men and Maid Marion.
“With its themes of friendship, loyalty, humanity and love, the enduring legend of Robin Hood has captured the hearts and imagination of people for centuries and will continue to do so.”
The first written records of the tales of Robin Hood date back to the medieval period, but scholars believe the stories may have been passed through on as oral folklore long before then.
Royal Mail’s illustrated stamps are the latest in a centuries-old unbroken line of stories, books, songs, paintings and, in more recent times, movies, TV series and cartoons retelling the legend.
The collection was designed by concept artist Jon McCoy, whose artwork has been featured in hit movies including Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker and Blade Runner 2049.
It was compiled with the guidance of leading Robin Hood expert, Dr Lesley Coote, Fellow of the University of Hull School of Humanities.
McCoy said: "It's been an amazing honour to illustrate for Royal Mail, one of the great English legends, and favourite stories from my childhood. I hope everyone enjoys these stamps as much as I did."
The collection is now on sale through the Royal Mail’s website. A presentation pack featuring all 10 stamps is available.