Royal Mail stamps to celebrate Ian Fleming centenary go on sale

08-Jan-2008 • Literary

A set of extra-long stamps marking the centenary of the birth of James Bond creator Ian Fleming has been launched - reports the BBC.

Each of the six stamps shows a selection of different 007 novel covers, with first-class stamps featuring Casino Royale and Dr No.

Click here for MI6 coverage of the Royal Mail series of James Bond stamps.

The 54p stamps feature the covers of Goldfinger and Diamonds Are Forever, while those for 78p show For Your Eyes Only and From Russia With Love.

The Royal Mail 007 collection is on sale at Post Offices and online.

"It is estimated that over half the world's population have heard of James Bond which is an incredible testament to the imagination of his creator, Ian Fleming," said Julietta Edgar, the Royal Mail's head of special stamps.

"I'm delighted to see that the most famous super-spy is once again in the service of Queen and country and will be appearing on millions of items of post."

The stamps were launched by actress Samantha Bond, who played Miss Moneypenny alongside Pierce Brosnan as Bond.

Other Royal Mail stamp issues for 2008 will include celebrations of the classic Carry On and Hammer horror films, both of which will be available in June.