Each of the first-class stamps will feature a split design, with the luminaries' portraits paired with a colourful square to represent brainstorming.

The Royal Mail is to mark the 350th anniversary of the Royal Society by issuing ten new stamps boasting the faces of some of the institutions most famous alumni.

Each of the first-class stamps will feature a split design, with the luminaries' portraits paired with a colourful square to represent brainstorming and their achievements.

Julietta Edgar, head of special stamps at Royal Mail, said the organisation has always celebrated pioneering thought and these latest stamps are the latest examples of that.

"Now [the Royal Society's] hugely valuable role will be celebrated on millions of first-class letters across the UK and by collectors worldwide," she added.

Martin Rees, president of the Royal Society, stated that the stamps should generate a great deal of excitement and are a fitting way to pay tribute to some of the greatest minds ever.

Royal Mail recently announced that the price of a first-class stamp will rise to 41p from April 1st.

Posted by Mark Moore

Article Added: 25/02/2010 09:24:04