Pre-1847 one-shilling rates; early revenues; embossed adhesives and stationery
Prior to the issuance of the first 1-shilling stamp in 1847, the only way to pre-pay an overseas letter was by using lots of 2d or 1d stamps.
Britain’s first high-value stamps were in denominations of 1 shilling (1847) and 10 pence (1848). An embossed 6 pence stamp followed in 1854. These were intended specifically for overseas postage and inland (domestic) use of the embossed high values was not authorised until 1854.
QVshilling.net 