Sir Isaac Newton is one of ten key figures whose portraits are being used on the new stamps.

The Royal Mail has launched an innovative split-stamp design in its latest commemorative stamp collection which celebrates the 350th anniversary of the Royal Society – the world’s oldest continuous science academy.

Ten 1st Class stamps have been issued which feature significant figures from the Royal Society – Sir Isaac Newton, Benjamin Franklin, Robert Boyle, Sir Nicholas Shackleton, Edward Jenner, Charles Babbage, Alfred Russel Wallace, Sir Joseph Lister, Ernest Rutherford and lastly the only woman to be included, Dorothy Hodgkin.

The ten illustrious figures were selected from more than 1,400 Fellows and Foreign members and over 60 Nobel Laureates.

Julietta Edgar, Head of Special Stamps at Royal Mail, said: “For three and a half centuries the Royal Mail has maintained its position at the forefront of enquiry and discovery, and at the cutting edge of scientific progress.

“Now it’s hugely valuable role will be celebrated on millions of 1st Class letters across the UK and by collectors worldwide.”

The Royal Society was founded in 1660 and is an independent academy promoting the natural and applied sciences.

On behalf of the Royal Society Martin Rees, President, commented: “These stamps commemorate some of the best known Fellows of the Royal Society and their extraordinary achievements.

“As we celebrate our 350th year we hope they will generate a sense of excitement and pride in our scientific history, and strengthen our resolve to ensure that science yields new discoveries and benefits in the 21st century.”

The stamps are on sale from today (25 February) and are available from all Post Offices, online at www.royalmail.com/stamps, or by calling or visiting Royal Mail Tallents House.