A383-“GB 1987 Sir Isaac Newton18p ‘PHILOSOPHIAE NATURALIS PRINCIPIA MATHEMATICA
Title:
“GB 1987 Sir Isaac Newton 18p ‘PHILOSOPHIAE NATURALIS PRINCIPIA MATHEMATICA’ Red Apple Block of 6 Mint Unhinged”
Category:
Stamps → Great Britain → Commemorative issues
Condition:
Mint never hinged (unmounted), full original gum, block of six, corner marginal with colour control/plate markings (as shown in photos)
Note: There is a minor mark or gum disturbance on one of the stamps on the back (see image) – adjust condition accordingly if that affects “superb” status.
Item Specifics:
Issue Date: 24 March 1987 (for the 18p “The Principia Mathematica” issue)
Denomination: 18p
Subject: Sir Isaac Newton / The Principia Mathematica
Format: Block of 6 (3 × 2) corner marginal with plate control margin
Gum: Original never hinged
Perforations: 14 x 15 (as issued)
Printer: Harrison & Sons Ltd
Country/Region of Manufacture: Great Britain
Year of Issue: 1987
Certification/Expertise: none supplied (unless you plan to get one)
Additional Info: Good eye-appeal, vibrant colours, unmounted — minor gum mark on one unit as on photo.
Description / Item Details:
“This is a lovely example of the 1987 Great Britain 18p commemorative stamp featuring Sir Isaac Newton and his Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica, issued by Royal Mail. You are bidding (or buying) a block of six (corner marginal) in mint never hinged condition, with full original gum. This is not used, not hinged, and presents superbly for display or investment.
The design depicts a red apple (a nod to Newton’s legendary inspiration) with geometrical lines and the text “PHILOSOPHIAE NATURALIS PRINCIPIA MATHEMATICA”.
The block includes the marginal plate/colour control marks at the top right (“IA. IB. IC. ID…” margins visible) as per your photos.
Minor note: one stamp on the back shows a slight mark on the gum (please refer to photo 2). I have priced accordingly.
This is a scarce format (block of six, corner marginal) in unmounted mint condition and would make a fine addition to a Newton, science, or British commemorative collection.”
Price & Valuation:
General market: The single 18p “Newton” stamp is relatively common.
The special format (block of six corner marginal, mint never hinged) is less common and commands a premium, though I did not find many recent comparable listings for exactly this format.
I found used examples of this stamp (single) offered very low or for craft use (~£2.50 for ten used examples)
First Day Cover valuations show wide variance (one listing showing average ~£185 for a “10th Anniversary FDC” of this issue)
Given the nice format, I’d place a valuation guide at approximately £35-£50 for this block of 6 mint never hinged, perhaps more if in superb condition and with strong market interest.
Recommended Listing Price (Buy It Now):
£45.00 (or so) — this gives room for negotiation, and reflects above valuation.
Auction Option:
Start: £25.00
Reserve: (optional) £40.00
Duration: 7 days
“Or Buy It Now” option: £45.00

