The Archive

The Archive is a unique resource accumulated over the last 150 years, and includes documents and photographic records covering many key aspects of philatelic development and research. The primary collecting areas are listed below.

A long-term programme is currently being undertaken to digitize the important elements to increase researcher's access to the Archive. We are soon to include the full index within the RPSL's Catalogue.

Left: Her Majesty the Queen's visit to the RPSL in 1969 for our Centenary
Right: Material from the Perkins Bacon Archive
(click to enlarge)

The collection includes items concerning:

• The History of the Society from its origins to the present day
• Prominent RPSL Members
• Philatelic Organisations (UK and abroad)
• Philatelic Exhibitions
  • UK - regional, national and international
  • Foreign - international

• Philatelic trade (UK and abroad)
• Printing and Postal Administration
  • e.g., Perkins Bacon
• Philatelic Studies
  • Traditional, postal stationery, philatelic history and more

The Perkins Bacon Archive

The Perkins Bacon printing company can trace its British origins back to 1819 as it attempted to win a contract to produce unforgeable notes.

Despite failing to obtain this contract, Perkins Bacon went on to pioneer new security and philatelic printing techniques. They were awarded the contract to print the first Penny Black and printed numerous stamps for territories around the world.

The firm went bust in 1935, after which the company's records were purchased by the Royal Philatelic Society London.

The archive includes Perkins Bacon’s engraving and hardening books, delivery books and extensive ledgers, printing records and correspondence. Percy de Worms has published aspects of the records, yet there is still much in the archive for researchers, especially if you're interested in early line-engraved issues.

Opening hours

We are open during the Society's normal opening hours (typically 9.30-16.45).

Members and other visitors are very welcome to access the archives by prior arrangement - please contact the Archivist.

 RPSL Gallery

The permanent Museum exhibition is located in the basement and contains some archival material.

Our temporary exhibition includes museum, archive and library material and is located in the foyer, large library and the landing adjacent to the President's Room.

More information on the exhibitions

Donations

We welcome donations that will enhance our collection, especially in the areas outlined above. The Archivist will be happy to discuss possible donations.

Honorary Curator & Archivist: Bill Hedley

41 Devonshire Place London W1G 6JY
020 7486 1044

Email: museum&archives@rpsl.org.uk