Black postboxes are much rarer than the red ones we’re used to, and as a result, Brits are often left stumped when they see one, as they have no idea what it means
Black postboxes are a rare sight, and they have become a topic of intrigue for many Brits who are just now uncovering their significance. The UK’s postboxes have donned their iconic red hue since 1874, when they were changed from their previous green hue after complaints that they were too hard to spot, especially in the countryside.
But not every Royal Mail box fits this colour scheme. During the 1930s, blue postboxes were briefly used for airmail, and gold ones popped up in 2012 to celebrate Britain’s Olympic champions. However, black postboxes remain an enigma, often baffling those who encounter them due to their scarcity.
A curious Reddit user recently sparked discussion after spotting a black postbox in active use in Llanfydd, Wales. Despite researching and even chatting with the farm owner where the box was mounted, they were left clueless about its true purpose.
The poster queried: “I came across this working postbox at the weekend. I’ve Googled it, and it says that it’s either to celebrate Black History (for a regular pillar box) or to signify that it’s out of use, but this one IS in use.
“It was on the wall of a farm, and I talked to the owner of said farm, and she didn’t know either. Does anyone know more?”
Social media users were quick to respond to the original poster, pointing out that black postboxes are usually decommissioned and no longer collect mail. Typically found near old post offices or within conservation areas, these postboxes are often sealed to prevent letters from being mistakenly posted.
However, the postbox in question was not sealed, leading to confusion – until it was revealed to be a mere replica.
One eagle-eyed commenter clarified: “It’s a replica postbox, not a real one. There’s no Royal Mail branding on the collection card, nor a day token.”
They even provided an Amazon link where similar faux postboxes can be purchased.
This revelation sparked debate over the legality of selling replicas that could potentially deceive the public. In response to concerns, another user mentioned: “I reported the selling site to the Post Office and Royal Mail, and they said it’s not a copyright design, but they would take action if it were placed somewhere it may be thought to be real.”
Additionally, another shared: “They’re typically painted black when retired. I saw the one in Farnham station being painted over, as it, too, was embedded in the wall and couldn’t be removed.”
The original poster clarified the confusion in the comments, admitting that when questioning the farm owner about the postbox’s usage, the response could have reflected its function as a personal mailbox rather than confirming it as an active Royal Mail collection point.
They explained: “I asked them if it was ‘in use’, she said yes. She may have said yes because it’s a working postbox for the farm when I was asking if it’s a working Royal Mail Collections Letterbox.”
However, a black postbox doesn’t always signify it’s out of commission. To celebrate Black History Month in 2020, four iconic postboxes across London, Glasgow, Cardiff, and Belfast were given a striking makeover with black paint and gleaming gold tops.
These unique postboxes pay tribute to prominent figures from the British black community. Each is adorned with a QR code that, when scanned, tells the stories of black Britons commemorated on special postage stamps.
