Royal Mail unveils selection of stamps featuring the flashiest armour ever owned by Britain’s best-known monarchs
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THE ROYAL Mail unveils a selection of stamps fit for a King - showing off the flashiest armour ever owned by Britain’s best-known monarchs. Eight stamps show stunning examples of armour from 1520 to 1686 owned by monarchs including King Henry VIII, King Charles I, King Charles II and King James II.
![[Postage stamp depicting gilt armour, c.1612, owned by Prince Henry and King Charles I.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/1686-owned-monarchs-including-king-965748898.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
They include Henry VIII’s horned helmet and the stunning gilt armour suit worn by King Charles I. The selection has been unveiled in collaboration with The Royal Armouries. Four other designs showcase jaw-dropping treasures from the museum’s stash, with influences spanning the UK, Europe, and Asia.
![[£1.00 postage stamp depicting King Henry VIII's horned helmet.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/1686-owned-monarchs-including-king-965748840.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
The Royal Armouries, Britain’s oldest museum, boasts the largest collection of armour in the world. Last summer, Martin Lewis' MoneySavingExpert (MSE) issued a warning over old stamps before households decide to bin them. Royal Mail started replacing all current stamps with new style designs last year.
![[Postage stamp depicting a European sword from c. 1365-1432.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/1686-owned-monarchs-including-king-965748944.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
If you continue to use old stamps, you could face a surcharge in the same way that you would if you sent mail with no or insufficient postage. The only valid designs are those with barcodes on them, featuring King Charles' image. Alternatively, you can swap your old ones for barcoded versions for free through the Royal Mail scheme.
![[Postage stamp depicting Alexander armour, 1607-08, owned by Prince Henry and King Charles I.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/1686-owned-monarchs-including-king-965748951.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
