In honour of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s (RNLI) monumental 200-year anniversary, Isle of Man Post Office has launched of an exclusive stamp collection, paying homage to two centuries of maritime valour and life-saving endeavours.

The collection will be issued on the anniversary of the birth of RNLI founder Sir William Hillary, 4 January 2024, the RNLI 200 stamp collection commemorates the historic founding of the organisation in 1824 on the Isle of Man.

Each stamp within this series encapsulates the spirit and legacy of the RNLI, showcasing iconic Manx lifeboat stations, their vessels and one stamp honours the founder himself.

This prestigious collection comprises six meticulously designed stamps, each dedicated to a specific Manx lifeboat station, from Port St. Mary to Douglas. The stamps beautifully depict the rich history and remarkable work of the RNLI, showcasing the coastal locations where countless lives have been saved over two centuries.

The collection has been designed by RNLI and Isle of Man Advertising using images from RNLI/Graham Farr Collection, Andrew Barton, Dave Kneale and Nicholas Leach. Available in the collection is a stamp and sheet set, limited edition presentation pack and first day cover, prestige booklet and booklet pane, postal booklet and coin pack. Also included in the collection is a limited edition stamp and coin pack which features a stamp of Sir William Hillary and Douglas Lifeboat Station alongside a 2017 £2 coin featuring the Tower of Refuge. All items are available to view or pre-order now at www.iompost.com/RNLI200.

The accompanying issue text delves into the origins of the RNLI, shedding light on Sir William Hillary’s impassioned appeal to the nation in 1823, which led to the institution’s establishment on March 4th, 1824. The text traces the RNLI’s evolution, highlighting its pivotal role in reducing shipwrecks around the UK coasts.

Mark Dowie, Chief Executive of RNLI, expressed his enthusiasm for this commemorative release: “We are thrilled to support this selection of RNLI commemorative stamps recognising each of the Isle of Man lifeboat stations, and are proud to recognise the special place the Island holds in RNLI history as the Institution’s birthplace. These stamps will help raise awareness for the RNLI in our anniversary year by commemorating our incredible past, celebrating our lifesavers of today, and inspiring the next generation who will continue to save lives in the future.”

Allen Corlett, Chairman of the RNLI’s Isle of Man 200th Anniversary Panel, said:  “Our dedicated volunteers across the Isle of Man will be proud to see that the charity’s long history and enduring commitment to our lifesaving mission are valued by the community we serve.  We are grateful to Isle of Man Post Office for working with us to create this stunning collection of commemorative stamps. They will inspire our volunteers and supporters, here and further afield, as we celebrate two centuries since Sir William Hillary’s vision took root in the Isle of Man, and as we look forward to another 200 years of service.” 

Isle of Man Post Office Stamps and Coins General Manager Maxine Cannon said: “Lifeboat station number one is in our nation’s capital and we couldn’t be prouder to issue this collection which not only marks a significant milestone in maritime history but also serves as a heartfelt homage to the courageous individuals who continue to safeguard our coasts. It’s a privilege to collaborate with the RNLI, Jersey Post, and Guernsey Post in presenting this collection, encapsulating the spirit of solidarity across the British Isles in celebrating the RNLI’s extraordinary journey.”

Alongside Isle of Man Post Office, both Jersey and Guernsey Posts are issuing their own six stamp collections on 4th March 2024. All three collections complement each other, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of the RNLI across the British Isles.  

For more information, or to order the stamps visit www.iompost.com/RNLI200.

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