London: September 7, 2012:
De La Rue is the world’s largest integrated commercial banknote printer which also produces a wide range of security documents including passports, driving licences, authentication labels and stamps. Having an association with the Royal Mail dating back to 1855, when the Royal Mail needed a partner to print new stamps to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, they chose to work with De La Rue.
Kevin Freeguard, Managing Director, De La Rue Solutions* said; “Building on our relationship with the Royal Mail, De La Rue was delighted to be given the opportunity to work on the production of these prestigious stamps. As well as having a functional purpose these elegant designs will no doubt prove attractive to collectors not only in the UK but also across the world.”
The series of stamps was issued on 31 May 2012 and includes a number of designs that successfully represent the Queen’s reign over the past 60 years.
De La Rue was first involved with the Royal Mail in printing the 4d Carmine stamp in 1855. Coming right up to date, this is the latest Jubilee special issue that De La Rue has printed, the others being to celebrate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee** in 1977 and Golden Jubilee in 2002.
In the past, De La Rue has worked closely with the Royal Mail to design and produce a number of other commemorative special issues, including stamps with unusual shapes and features, such as jigsaw puzzle shaped stamps to celebrate the bicentenary of the birth of Charles Darwin.
Martyn Fry, Head of Production, Royal Mail commented; “We were aware how important this series of stamps would prove to be during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations this year. De La Rue delivered a good result against a very tight timescale.”
* De La Rue Solutions provides specialist physical and digital products and services, including cash processing, revenue and brand protection, identity solutions and financial and secure documents.
** Harrisons & Sons who printed the Silver Jubilee stamps in 1977 was acquired by De La Rue in 1997.
ENDS
About De La Rue plc:
As the world’s largest integrated commercial banknote printer, De La Rue is a trusted partner of governments, central banks, issuing authorities and commercial organisations around the world.
In the past five years alone, the Group has been involved in the design or production of over 150 national currencies. De La Rue also produces a wide range of security documents including passports, driving licences, authentication labels and tax stamps. In addition, the Group manufactures sophisticated, high speed cash sorting and inspection equipment.
De La Rue also offers a range of specialist services and software solutions including government identity schemes, product authentication systems and cash management processing solutions.
De La Rue employs approximately 4,000 people worldwide and is listed on the London Stock Exchange.
For further information, please contact Rob Hutchison, Group Director of Communications, De La Rue (rob.hutchison@uk.delarue.com).
