CLASSIC LOCOMOTIVES 2004

This special set of 6 stamps ( happily received in used condition from Francis, and still missing the first stamp) commemorates the 200th anniversary of the first journey on rails by a steam locomotive in February 1804. This classic issue features a variety of different types of locomotives travelling on preserved railways around the UK, with the thrill and energy of the steam. The stretched length of the stamps compliment the fabulous quality artwork to make for one of the Roayl Mail's most attractive railway stamp issues ever.

The six postage stamps in more detail:

Pictured on the Talyllyn Narrow Gauge Railway in Wales, the 20p value stamp features the "Dolgoch" 0-4-0T locomotive which is believed to have been the first preserved steam train to power a passenger train on any UK heritage railway.

Seen travelling on the Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway in West Lothian, Scotland, the 28p value stamp features Caledonian Railway's powerful 439 0-4-4 locomotive at full steam.

The "E" value stamp (Europe rate - this is the one I am still missing, so if anyone has a spare would be great) depicts the Great Central Railway's 8K 2.8.0 express freight locomotive travelling through Leicestershire in 1950s British Railways livery.

The Great Western Railway's "Bradley Manor" 4-6-0 locomotive is featured on the 42p stamp. The train is seen approaching Victoria Bridge to cross the River Severn in Worcestershire now operated as part of the restored Severn Valley Railway.

The 47p stamp shows Southern Railway's Wesst Country class locomotive "Blackmoor Vale" in Horsted Keynes Station on the famous Bluebell Line in East Sussex which was one of Britain's first preserved lines and featured as a location for many films and TV programs.

The top, 68p value stamp depicts a 1950s British Railways Standard Class locomotive near Haworth Station on what is now the preserved Keighley & Worth Valley Railway.

A miniature souvenir sheet featuring all six stamp values and a FDC was also issued by Royal Mail on the same day.
Here you can find some nice maximum cards featuring these wonderful stamps.

Title: CLASSIC STEAM LOCOMOTIVES
Date of Issue: 13 January 2004
Country: UK
Denominations: 20p, 28p, E, 42p, 47p, 68p

Source: http://gbstamp.co.uk