New Zealand Post created this special commemorative stamp issue to celebrate the wedding of Prince Henry Charles Albert David, grandson of Tokelau’s Head of State, Queen Elizabeth II. Prince Harry, as he is better known, married Ms Meghan Markle at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle on 19 May 2018.
Issue information
Millions around the world watched and celebrated as His Royal Highness Prince Henry of Wales and Ms Meghan Markle wed on 19 May 2018 at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. This issue from Tokelau featured four stamps: two of the couple celebrating their engagement, and two of their wedding day.
The three atolls of Tokelau became a British protectorate in 1877, at which time Queen Victoria was the reigning Monarch. For the past 65 years Queen Elizabeth II has been the island’s Head of State.
Born on 15 September 1984, Prince Harry is much admired around the world. As an unlikely successor to the throne, he has been freer to socialise, to date, and to be more adventurous than his older brother. However, his wedding marks a shift in focus away from youthful adventures towards a future family.
Miniature Sheet and First Day Covers
This issue featured four specially selected images of the happy couple – two celebrating their engagement, and two from their wedding day. The graphic background and borders on the first day covers were based on the frangipani and the Pacific fine mat. Frangipani are found throughout the Pacific and the fine mat is used for multiple purposes, including traditional ceremonies. The finer the mat, the more valuable it is.
Product Listing for Tokelau 2018 Royal Wedding
| Image | Title | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Stamp | Single 45c gummed stamp. | $0.45 | |
| Single Stamp | Single $1.40 gummed stamp. | $1.40 | |
| Single Stamp | Single $2.00 gummed stamp. | $2.00 | |
| Single Stamp | Single $3.00 gummed stamp. | $3.00 | |
| Miniature Sheet | Mint, used or cancelled gummed miniature sheet. | $6.85 | |
| First Day Cover | First day cover with four gummed stamp affixed. Cancelled on the first day of issue. | $7.35 | |
| Miniature Sheet First Day Cover | First day cover with gummed miniature sheet affixed. Cancelled on the first day of issue. | $7.35 |
Technical information
| Date of issue: | 21 May 2018 |
|---|---|
| Number of stamps: | Four gummed stamps |
| Denominations: | 45c, $1.40, $2.00 & $3.00 |
| Stamps, miniature sheet and first day covers designed by: | Saint Andrew Matautia, New Zealand Post, Wellington, New Zealand |
| Printer: | Collectables and Solutions Centre, New Zealand Post, Whanganui, New Zealand |
| Number of colours: | Four process colours |
| Stamp size and format: | 30mm x 40mm (horizontal) |
| Paper type: | Tullis Russell 104gsm red phosphor gummed stamp paper |
| Number of stamps per sheet: | 16 |
| Perforation gauge: | 13.33 |
| Special blocks: | Plate blocks and value blocks could be obtained by purchasing at least six stamps from a sheet. |
| Period of sale: | These stamps remained on sale until 20 May 2019. |
