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 This issue is best described by the words of the designer himself; Colin Edwards. Quote -These stamps celebrate the work of the backroom craftsmen who trained at trade workshops such as the Institute of Designers, Engravers and Artists and went on to contribute to many of the iconic stamps we love today. As part of their training, each individual had to prove their worth at engraving the work of the stamp artists backwards, upside down, bolder, lighter - and were expected to learn how to repair plates, patch missing pieces of type and pattern, and generally keep the printing presses rolling, working individually or as part of a team. Our Cinderella stamp reflects the progress of five such men, all skilled individuals whose handwork was taken for granted and whose names have since become lost in the mists of time. This Cinderella stamp illustrates a critical stage in their training as they progress from engraving background patterns and borders to re-creating the artwork of the master draughtsmen at the centre of the designs. It is my humble tribute to these now forgotten heroes who so successfully combined design, art and craft and without whom much of our postage stamp history and culture would be dull and forgettable.
 The stamps were issued with collectability in mind. The sheets had 5 rows of 5 stamps, with the bottom letters of each one inn a row being P and E, N and N, Y and B, L and A, and N and K. The cover came complete with a signed certificate of authenticity. A bonus envelope contained a x4 sized Penny Blank. Buyers were also tempted by a Certificate of Competence for an apprentice engraver, complete with examples of his mastery of engraving. There were four different examples of these certificates, with coloured stamp examples of the apprentice`s abilities, silhouettte heads, ghost heads etc. Early Bird buyers were treated to an envelope containing samples of these test printings. Were we being spoiled? Yes! Do we mind? No!
These extras seem to have been prepared in mini-sheets of five stamps, some black or coloured, with others blanks or with heads.
 
What to look for in this issue?
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