Manx Playing Card Stamps

Published August 01, 2014 Updated June 06, 2022

Isle of Man stamp issue based upon the history of Manx themed playing cards, featuring six fascinating, full colour stamps showing antique playing cards.

2014 Isle of Man United Kingdom Philately

Manx Playing Card Stamps

issued by: Isle of Man Stamps & Coins

“I was delighted when I was approached by the Isle of Man Post Office for help with their proposed issue of a set of stamps featuring IOM souvenir playing cards with scenic views of the Island. These cards were published in the second half of the 19th century, some of the first of this type to be produced worldwide; several of the packs were designed and printed by my family’s old company, Charles Goodall and Son of London. The designers are to be congratulated in having produced a gorgeous and elegant set of stamps with the IOM views clearly recognisable in such a small space” - Mike Goodall

six full colour stamps issued by Isle of Man Stamps & Coins on 8th August 2014 featuring antique Isle of Man playing cards

Above: six full colour stamps issued by Isle of Man Stamps & Coins on 8th August 2014 featuring antique Isle of Man playing cards. Each stamp measures 32 x 40mm, printed by offset lithography in 4 colours. The scenes depicted, from Bradda Head to Laxey Wheel, are set against a background corresponding to the rear of the original cards, giving a complete representation on every stamp. Stamps are obtainable from: Isle of Man Stamps & Coins. Original playing cards from the collection of Mike Goodall.

Further References

Website about playing cards on Postage Stamps: Playing Cards on the Philately

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By Simon Wintle

Member since February 01, 1996

I am the founder of The World of Playing Cards (est. 1996), a website dedicated to the history, artistry and cultural significance of playing cards and tarot. Over the years I have researched various areas of the subject, acquired and traded collections and contributed as a committee member of the IPCS and graphics editor of The Playing-Card journal. Having lived in Chile, England, Wales, and now Spain, these experiences have shaped my work and passion for playing cards. Amongst my achievements is producing a limited-edition replica of a 17th-century English pack using woodblocks and stencils—a labour of love. Today, the World of Playing Cards is a global collaborative project, with my son Adam serving as the technical driving force behind its development. His innovative efforts have helped shape the site into the thriving hub it is today. You are warmly invited to become a contributor and share your enthusiasm.

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