The Royal Mail has just launched a special selection of 2019 Christmas stamps, each depicting different Biblical Nativity scenes.
From the journey of the Magi to the birth of Jesus Christ, and the shepherds, you can choose from six beautiful styles.
The Three Kings can also be seen bearing their famous gifts, while Jesus as a baby in the manger under a starry sky is also depicted.
This year’s Royal Mail Christmas stamps have been created by the talented duo and paper-cut artists Hari & Deepti. Based on a fusion of intricate paper-art and lighting, their work brings to life the magical story of Christmas with imaginative storytelling.
The stamps are just another factor that adds to the joy of sending cards and gifts to friends and family who don’t live near us.
The tradition of sending Christmas cards was established in 1843, with the introduction of the world’s first commercially produced Christmas cards. The cards were commissioned by Sir Henry Cole, who just three years earlier had played a key role in helping to introduce Royal Mail’s Penny Post service.
Only 1,000 of these cards were printed and sold for a shilling each. This meant that they were a luxury item and were not affordable for most people.
One of the original 1,000 cards sent is also the most valuable in the world, according to Guinness World Records. The card, which was originally sent by Sir Henry Cole to his grandmother in 1843, was sold at an auction in Devizes, Wiltshire for £20,000 on 24 November 2001.
See the six Royal Mail Christmas 2019 stamps below:
Want to send Christmas cards this year? Royal Mail is encouraging us to post festive greetings early, and order online gifts and shopping well in advance, to help its postmen and women deliver the bumper festive mailbag.
The UK latest recommended posting dates for Christmas 2019 are: Wednesday 18 December for 2nd Class Mail; Friday 20 December for 1st Class Mail; and Monday 23 December for Special Delivery.
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11 of the best tabletop Christmas trees
1.5ft Pre Lit Snowy Christmas Tree
marksandspencer.com
£10.00
This pre-lit, snow effect white Christmas tree is a show-stopper.
60cm Potted Mini Christmas Tree Micro Light Bundle
Lights4fun
lights4fun.co.uk
£19.99
Complete with a string of 50 micro lights, this mini tree is a wonderful way to brighten up your windowsill at Christmas.
Red Berry Table Top Christmas Tree (61 cm)
Decked with bright red berries, pine cones, eucalyptus, tendril and juniper, this tree is finished with a traditional burlap base for a rustic touch.
Robert Dyas Pre-Lit Richmond Tabletop Christmas Tree – 2ft
Robert Dyas
robertdyas.co.uk
£19.49
Add some festive cheer to your tabletop with Robert Dyas’ pre-lit Christmas tree, complete with decorations and lights.
Pre-Lit Christmas Tree in Willow Basket – 1.5ft
The White Company
thewhitecompany.com
£30.00
Thick branches create a fuller shape on this tree, while the basket adds a stylish touch.
Snowy Vancouver Mini Christmas Tree – Small
Bring festive joy to your home with this mini Christmas tree. Its snowy green branch tips gives a realistic look.
Contemporary Christmas Tree in Festive White Basket
gardeningexpress.co.uk
gardeningexpress.co.uk
£19.99
We love this pretty white wicker basket, which adds a Scandinavian feel to the home.
Artificial Christmas Tree
MARQUIS & DAWE
notonthehighstreet.com
£18.00
This artificial tree is perfect for a shelf or mantelpiece. Each tree comes tied in a hessian sack.
Decorated Artificial Mini Christmas Tree Red Apples 60cm Tall Green Pine Indoor
Mr Crimbo
amazon.co.uk
£16.99
With bright red baubles, apples, berries and frosted leaves, this tree is sure to add a touch of winter delight.
Snowy Mini Christmas Tree
Lights4fun.co.uk
lights4fun.co.uk
£11.99
Create a snowy winter scene at home with this small, elegant tree. At 35cm tall, it’s great for smaller spaces.
60cm Dressed Christmas Tree – Silver
Argos Home
argos.co.uk
£30.00
With artificial berries, pinecones and silver baubles, this small tree is a great way to ensure you have a fuss-free Christmas.
Ruth Doherty
Ruth is an experienced freelance digital writer and editor, covering everything from travel and interiors to fashion and beauty.