The first commoner to appear on a Royal Mail pack in 1964 was none other than William Shakespeare. The English playwright and poet, often regarded as the greatest writer in the English language, was honored posthumously with a commemorative stamp to mark the 400th anniversary of his birth. Shakespeare's works, including plays like "Romeo and Juliet," "Hamlet," and "Macbeth," have had a profound influence on literature and the arts for centuries. His portrayal of human emotions and themes such as love, jealousy, betrayal, and power continue to resonate with audiences around the world. The decision to feature Shakespeare on a Royal Mail pack in 1964 was a fitting tribute to a man whose work has stood the test of time. The stamp featured a portrait of the Bard alongside the famous quote, "To be or not to be, that is the question," from his play "Hamlet." The release of the Shakespeare stamp was met with enthusiasm from collectors and fans of the playwright. To this day, it remains a prized piece of memorabilia for those interested in British history and literature. If you are interested in learning more about the history of Royal Mail packs or collecting rare stamps, you can visit the official Royal Mail website at www.royalmail.com. There, you can browse their collection of commemorative stamps and learn about the stories behind each design. In addition, the British Postal Museum and Archive offers a wealth of information on the history of the postal service in the UK. You can visit their website at www.postalmuseum.org to explore exhibits, collections, and research materials related to Royal Mail and its role in British society. In conclusion, William Shakespeare was the first commoner to appear on a Royal Mail pack in 1964, a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest writers in history. His stamp continues to be a cherished piece of postal history for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

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