updated 26th April 2008

Buckingham Covers  - Machin 40th Anniversary FDC

Date:                           20^th April 2007.                                                                    Email. carar@internetstamps.co.uk        

Contact details:           Cara Redman, Buckingham Covers                                            www.buckinghamcovers.com

                                    Tel. 01303 278137

MACHIN MANIA! THE 40^TH ANNIVERSARY

Every one knows Arnold Machin created the bust that the famous stamps came from. What is not generally known is the involvement of top photographer Professor John Hedgecoe. Professor Hedgecoe worked closely with Arnold Machin and his photographs of the Queen in 1965 were fundamental to the design.

The iconic image created by the two men has been reproduced over 175 billion times since its creation! But history has tended to gloss over Professor Hedgecoe's role, giving all the credit to the equally deserving Arnold Machin. The definitives are even referred to as "Machins".

It’s only in the last few years that Hedgecoe’s part in the stamps has been universally recognised.

The first day cover from Buckingham Covers for the Machin’s 40^th Anniversary seeks to redress the balance and celebrates Professor Hedgecoe, without whom the definitive stamps would not exist as we know them.

The image on the Buckingham cover is based on Professor Hedgecoe's photographic work while working with Arnold Machin. It also has a special London postmark. Buckingham Covers are very proud to announce they can offer their covers signed by John Hedgecoe himself for just £22.95.

If you would like more details on this cover or to place an order, call 01303 278137, go online www.buckinghamcovers.com or write to Buckingham Covers, FREEPOST SEA 8889, FOLKESTONE, Kent. CT20 2BR (No Stamps Needed). The Machin cover costs £9.95 plus P&P.