The Orrysdale Collection was meticulously compiled by Dr John Frissell Crellin MRCS MHK 1816-1886. The eldest son of John Christian Crellin, of Orrysdale and Catherine Quayle, of Castletown, and was educated at King William's College. He studied medicine at St. Bartholomew's Hospital, and became a member of the Royal College of Surgeons. He inherited the property at Orrysdale and practiced medicine locally on the Island. Dr Crellin was appointed to the House of Keys in 1843.
He became Dr Charles Clay's on-Island collaborator for his book on the Currency of the Isle of Man published as Manx Society volume 17 in 1869. Along with Dr Clay they are regarded as the founding fathers of Manx numismatics.
Crellin had a significant collection of coins, tokens and card money, all shared throughout the Prestige Booklet – a 28 page study of the collection and history of Manx numismatics. The Collection has been passed down through the family virtually intact. Before the Collection was dispersed the executors allowed all 1715 examples to be fully catalogued, providing the most detailed and extensive numismatics known on the Island.
Maxine Cannon, General Manager of Stamps and Coins at Isle of Man Post Office, said: "We are proud to present this unique six-stamp collection celebrating the rich numismatic history of the Isle of Man. The Crellin Collection shares a fascinating insight into our Island’s past. We trust collectors and history enthusiasts alike will find this series both educational and inspiring."
Manx National Heritage commented: "Manx National Heritage welcomes the release of this stamp issue celebrating the rich numismatic heritage of the Isle of Man. These coins reflect our Island’s unique history, culture, and identity.”
The stamp collection will be issued on 14th August 2025 and includes a Set, First Day Cover, Presentation Pack, a 28 page Prestige Booklet and a Booklet Stamp Pane.
To view the collection and place your order please visit iomstamps.com/IOMCoins
High resolution images for this stamp issue can be found in our media centre
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NOTES TO EDITORS
The following examples have been selected as standout pieces from The Orrysdale Collection are featured upon the stamps.
Stamp 1: 1732 Copper Alloy 1d Pattern 10.54g 26.7 mm
Stamp 2: 1733 Copper Alloy 1d Die Sinker's Proof 12.51g 29.2mm
Stamp 3: 1798 Silver 1d Re-strike c1860 20.37g 34.0mm
Stamp 4: 1723 Poole & McGuire's Copper Alloy Half Penny Token 5.92g 29.0mm
Stamp 5: Found Kirk Michael 1834 Hiberno-Norse One Penny 0.92g
Stamp 6: Found Kirk Maughold 1836 Hiberno-Norse One Penny 0.79g
