For many of us, the joy of collecting is found in the intersection of art, history, and a personal passion. In my collection, some of the most cherished pieces are those that capture the essence of British culture through the lens of the Royal Mail. Today, I’m thrilled to share a deep dive into a beautiful acquisition from my archives: the 1980 Sport (Cricket) PHQ Postcard.
This postcard is more than just a piece of stationary; it is a reproduction of a postage stamp, part of a set celebrating British sports. Whether you are a philatelist, a deltiologist, or a lifelong cricket fan, this card represents a golden era of both graphic design and the "Gentleman’s Game."
The Beauty of the PHQ Card
PHQ cards (Postal Headquarters cards) are a specific delight for collectors. They are official postcards issued by the Post Office that feature enlarged reproductions of commemorative stamps.
This specific card, numbered PHQ 47 (d), was released on October 10, 1980. What makes this series stand out is the quality of the printing. Produced by The House of Questa in London—a legendary name in security printing—the colours remain vibrant and the texture of the cardstock feels substantial, even decades later.
%20Front%2027-12%20blog.jpg "Postcard Illustration of a British Postage Stamp Featuring Cricket Players") |
| Postcard Illustration of a British Postage Stamp Featuring Cricket Players |
Artistic Mastery by Robert Goldsmith
The artwork featured on the front is the work of Robert Goldsmith. In the 1970s and 80s, stamp design was a prestigious field that required a unique ability to convey movement and detail in a very small square.
Goldsmith’s depiction of the batsman is masterfully executed. The style is painterly and impressionistic, using a vibrant palette of "cricket greens."
The Action: The batsman is caught mid-stroke, his bat raised high, showing a sense of dynamic energy.
The Details: From the traditional white flannels to the classic wooden stumps and the wicketkeeper crouched in anticipation in the background, every element evokes the atmosphere of a sunny afternoon at a local cricket ground.
The Iconography: In the top right corner, the gold silhouette of Queen Elizabeth II anchors the card in its official British heritage.
%20rear%2027-12%20blog.jpg)
A Glimpse into 1980s Philately
Looking at the reverse of the card, we see the technical details that excite collectors. At the time of issue, the postcard itself was priced at 17 1/2p
The 1980 "Sport" set was a significant release. Alongside cricket, the set included stamps for other quintessentially British activities like rugby and athletics. By reproducing these as postcards, the Post Office allowed enthusiasts to appreciate the intricate artwork on a larger scale, making it a favourite for those who find stamp-sized art a bit too small for the naked eye.
Why I Love This Piece
Collecting these cards is like holding a time capsule. When I look at this cricket card, I don’t just see a stamp reproduction; I see the cultural significance of 1980. This was an era before the digital revolution, where sending a postcard was a common way to stay in touch, and the "Sport" series celebrated the physical prowess and community spirit found in British sports.
The House of Questa, mentioned on the back, was known for using lithography to achieve stunning colour accuracy. This dedication to craft is why cards from this era have aged so gracefully. The whites of the cricketers' uniforms haven't yellowed, and the green of the field still feels fresh and inviting.
Tips for Collecting PHQ Cards
If you are looking to start your own collection or have recently discovered a stack of these in an attic, here are a few things to look for:
Condition is Key: Look for sharp corners and a lack of "foxing" (brown spotting caused by age).
The "Mint" vs. "Used" Debate: Some collectors prefer "mint" cards (unused), while others love "first day of issue" (FDI) cards that feature the actual stamp and a commemorative postmark on the back.
Printer Marks: Cards printed by The House of Questa or Harrison & Sons are often highly regarded for their print quality.
Final Thoughts
Cricket is a game of patience, strategy, and beauty—qualities that are reflected in the design of this 1980 postcard. It remains a standout piece in my collection because it marries the technical precision of the Post Office with the artistic vision of Robert Goldsmith.
Every time I flip through my album and land on PHQ 47 (d), I’m reminded of why I started collecting in the first place: to preserve these small, beautiful fragments of history.
