New stamps brought out to celebrate the birthday of a York institution are being issued by the Royal Mail.
The eight stamps which feature the history and legacy of Vikings in Britain celebrate 40 years since the Jorvik Viking Centre opened in York.
They feature Viking artefacts and locations of significance from around the UK, including a silver penny minted in York on the first class stamp, and an antler comb and case from Coppergate on the £2 stamp.
Others in the set feature an iron, silver and copper sword, silver and bronze brooches and a Hogback gravestone from Govan Old, Glasgow.
The Jorvik Centre has had more than 20 million visitors since it opened in 1984.
David Gold, Royal Mail’s director of external affairs and policy, said: “If anyone was to ask ‘What did the Vikings ever do for us?’ the answer is that they transformed Britain and left an enduring influence on the languages, economy, society and political geography of the UK forever.
“Their impact was enormous and cannot be overlooked.
“We hope these stamps will inspire people to explore this fascinating period in Britain’s history further.”
David Jennings, chief executive of York Archaeology, the charity that operates Jorvik Viking Centre, said: “The finds at Coppergate fundamentally changed our understanding of how the Vikings lived in England, and Jorvik Viking Centre put York’s Norse heritage on the international map.
“After over 40 years, and with over 20 million visitors passing through our doors, it is a real honour to be featured on these stamps and be part of this unique celebration of Viking culture.”
