QEII British Postal History - 1952 to 1971: Airmail - Zone A: 1952

1st May 1952 - 2nd October 1966

In this post we look at the postage rates for airmail letters, postcards and printed papers to countries in Zone A. This zone covered countries in North Africa and the Middle East.

The rates illustrated below were introduced on 1st May 1952, just three months into the new Queen's reign. Remarkably they were to remain unchanged for over 14 years!

Letters: 9d per ½oz

The 9d letter rate applied to letters weighing up to ½oz. The charge for each extra ½oz or part thereof was also 9d.

9d Zone A airmail letter to Israel - 25th May 1959

The next letter was sent to Iran and includes a supplementary fee for registration. The 4d stamp commemorates the World Scout Jubilee Jamboree which was held at Sutton Park, England in August 1957.

9d Zone A airmail letter to Iran + 6d registration - 9th August 1957

Postcards: 5d

The use of blue airmail labels was preferred by the Post Office. However 'by Air Mail' could be written in the top left-hand corner as shown on this picture postcard.

5d Zone A airmail postcard to Iran - 15th (June?) 1958

On the front is a view of New Court, St John's College, Cambridge.

Printed Papers: 5d per ½oz

This envelope was sent at the printed papers rate. As required by the regulations it was left unsealed to allow for inspection.

The term "2nd Class Air Mail" has been written in the upper left corner to distinguish it from a normal airmail letter. Strictly speaking this annotation should have read "Printed Papers" to identify the intended service.