The Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III

A set of six photographic stamps will be issued on the 20 November 2023 in celebration of The Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III showing moments from the Coronation Day. This issue features a miniature sheet with a Martin Mörck portrait of His Majesty King Charles III in his timeless etching style. 

Marking the first new monarchy in more than 70 years, the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla took place at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 6 May 2023. This once in a lifetime event celebrated both a time-honoured tradition and a vision for the future.

The service, conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, featured many of the traditional Christian elements seen at previous Royal Coronations, as well as newer elements such as the prominent inclusion of faith leaders from a variety of backgrounds. A number of newly composed music pieces were performed, and the service included pieces sung in English, Welsh, Gaelic, Irish, Latin and Greek. 

This stamp issue illustrates the symbolism found in every element of the meticulously planned event. The priestly garments and regalia in which The King was adorned throughout the ceremony, represent both humility and splendour and reflect the two natures of Christ. We also see symbols of secular and spiritual power, including the Orb, representing the world under Christ; a Sceptre with a Cross, symbolising earthly power; and the Sceptre with a Dove, demonstrating spiritual authority exercised chiefly in mercy.

Shown on the 60p and 98p (2) stamps include images taken during the ceremony in which The King was crowned by the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend and Most Honourable Justin Welby, with St. Edward’s Crown. Dating back to the Coronation of Charles II in 1661, the crown is the centrepiece of the Crown Jewels and features over 400 precious stones. 

To leave the Abbey, His Majesty wore the Imperial State Crown (98p(1), £1.85, £2.55 stamps), which prominently features St. Edward’s sapphire while Her Majesty the Queen wore Queen Mary’s Crown throughout the day (£2.55). 

As part of this special stamp issue, renowned stamp and engraving artist, Martin Mörck, has produced a regal portrait of His Majesty based on an original photograph by Mario Testino. The portrait features on the commemorative miniature sheet while the background of the miniature sheet displays a floral pattern which echoes His Majesty’s commitment to the natural world. Quoted on the miniature sheet is the official post-Coronation address, in which The King and Queen stated, “We now rededicate our lives to serving the people of the United Kingdom, the realms and Commonwealth.” 

Philatelic stamp products such as miniature sheets, first day covers and presentation packs will be available from the Jersey post offices at Broad Street, St Helier and Rue Des Pres, St Saviour and can be ordered now at www.jerseystamps.com or by telephoning the Jersey Philatelic Bureau on: 00 44 (0)1534 616717. (Ends)

If you require any further information please contact Sam Fleming, Philatelic Marketing Manager, on 01534 616 724 or email sam.fleming@jerseypost.com 

Notes to editors

Technical details: Issue printed by Cartor Security Printers, France. Stamps printed four colour process lithography with spot simili gold metallic hot foil. Stamp size: 36mm deep x 36mm wide. Miniature sheet illustrated by Martin Mörck, based on an original photograph by Mario Testino. Miniature sheet size: 70mm x 105mm enclosing a block perforated stamp, size 51mm x 37.5mm. Stamp products © Jersey Post Ltd 2023.