The Age of the Sea Kings

Explore the fascinating world of the medieval Sea Kings

The Age of the Sea Kings Set

Discover the powerful rulers of the medieval sea kingdom with this complete set of six Age of the Sea Kings stamps.

£11.46 GBP

The Age of the Sea Kings Presentation Pack

This Presentation Pack contains the full set of Age of the Sea Kings stamps, with expert insight into a fascinating period of Isle of Man history.

£12.56 GBP

The Age of the Sea Kings First Day Cover

A unique collectable featuring all six Age of the Sea Kings stamps, officially cancelled on the first day of issue, 8th April 2025.

£12.61 GBP

The Age of the Sea Kings Europa Sheetlet

The EUROPA sheetlet features six of the 2025 EUROPA £2.26 stamp, drawn from the Age of the Sea Kings collection.

£13.56 GBP

The Age of the Sea Kings Europa First Day Cover

Celebrate the 2025 EUROPA theme with this First Day Cover, featuring the Age of the Sea Kings EUROPA stamp.

£7.50 GBP

The Age of the Sea Kings Sheet Set

Discover the powerful rulers of the medieval sea kingdom with this complete sheet set of six sheets of 20, each featuring one individual Age of the Sea Kings stamp.

£229.20 GBP

Explore the fascinating world of the medieval Sea Kings

Explore the fascinating world of the medieval Sea Kings with this striking Isle of Man Post Office stamp collection. Spanning the years 1079 to 1265, these six stamps bring to life the powerful rulers of the Kingdom of Man and the Isles, a maritime realm that once stretched from the Isle of Man to the Outer Hebrides. Created in collaboration with Manx artist Juan Moore and historian Professor R. Andrew McDonald, this collection showcases the dramatic stories of warlords, rulers, and religious patrons who shaped the history of the Irish Sea. Inspired by the medieval Chronicles of the Kings of Man and the Isles, these stamps offer a unique glimpse into a lost kingdom, its legendary figures, and its lasting legacy.Created in collaboration with Manx artist Juan Moore and Professor R. Andrew McDonald, Isle of Man Post Office is delighted to issue this collection of six stamps studying a fascinating period of Manx history, the Age of the Sea Kings.

Further Information

Learn more about the stamp collection

About this issue

This issue captures the drama, power, and legacy of the Norse rulers who once commanded these lands. Designed by Manx artist Juan Moore with accompanying text provided by historian Professor R. Andrew McDonald, the stamps bring to life the figures who shaped this fascinating era.

For nearly two centuries, the Isle of Man and the Hebridean islands formed a powerful maritime realm. Descendants of Godred Crovan ruled as sea kings, commanding fleets that dominated trade and warfare. These rulers were both feared warriors and respected Christian leaders, forging links from Norway to Rome. Their deeds are chronicled in medieval texts, but their stories have faded from popular memory—until now.

Each stamp highlights a pivotal moment or key figure from this Viking kingdom:

• 90p – Godred Crovan: The warrior who founded the Kingdom of Man and the Isles after his victory at the Battle of Sky Hill in 1079.

• £1.00 – Godred Olafsson: A ruler who balanced alliances with Ireland and Rome while navigating internal conflicts.

• £1.90 – Olaf Godredsson: A pious king who strengthened the Church and founded Rushen Abbey.

• £2.15 – The Chronicles: A nod to the Chronicles of the Kings of Man and the Isles, the primary historical record of this period.

• £2.26 – Rognvald and Olaf Godredsson: Brothers locked in a fierce struggle for the throne, culminating in the Battle of Tynwald in 1229.

• £3.25 – The Last Sea Kings: The final rulers who fought to maintain independence before the kingdom fell to Scottish control in 1265.

The atmospheric illustrations by Juan Moore bring a modern edge to the historical subject. His bold use of colour and dramatic compositions make these stamps stand out, reflecting both the power and the mystery of the sea kings’ world.

Technical specification

Text: R. Andrew McDonald
Artwork: Juan Moore
Design: EJC Design
Printer: bpost
Process: Offset Lithography
Colours: 4
Paper: Tru White Litho 110gsm
Perforations: 11.5 per 2cm
Stamp Size: 41.5mm x 28mm
Format: Sheets of 20
Date of Issue: 8th April 2025

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