In 1947, as the people of Great Britain were rebuilding their lives after the devastation of World War II, a Royal celebration heralded nationwide rejoicing. On 20 November, Princess Elizabeth Alexandra Mary (the elder daughter of King George VI, and soon to be Queen Elizabeth II) married His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh – an occasion we remember in 2007 as the couple celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary.
New Zealand Post is honoured to present a stamp and coin collection commemorating this momentous milestone. For not only is it a personal achievement for the couple, but Queen Elizabeth II, the 40th monarch since William the Conqueror obtained the crown of England, is the first reigning sovereign to reach a 60th wedding anniversary.
Official New Zealand joint portrait - 50c In Britain, the 2007 diamond wedding anniversary celebrations will include a special exhibition at Buckingham Place – one that recreates the wedding day, with archive film footage of both the celebrations and the behind-the-scenes preparations. The exhibition will also, for the first time since 1947, bring together the clothes worn by the main members of the wedding party – including Princess Elizabeth's magnificent dress and jewellery.
Wedding day 1947 - $2.00You can see the dress in all its glory in this photograph taken on the wedding day. Designed by Court Dressmaker Norman Hartnell, the ivory silk gown was decorated with crystals and 10,000 seed pearls, with a four-metre train inspired by Botticelli's figure of Primavera, symbolising rebirth and growth after the war. The Princess's tiara was originally made for her grandmother, while her pearl necklaces reportedly belonged to Queen Anne and Queen Caroline (the consort of George II). The Prince wore military uniform in keeping with Royal tradition.
Honouring 60 years of marriageThe two stamps also take their place on three superb collectables – a first day cover, a miniature sheet and a miniature sheet first day cover. The first day cover features a Royal family portrait taken on the wedding day, while the miniature sheet and miniature sheet first day cover show the writing desk that was presented to the couple on behalf of the people of New Zealand as their wedding gift. The gift was designed by renowned Austrian architect Ernst Plishke during his time in New Zealand.
Date of Issue: 5 September 2007
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