This is an "A type" pillar box - a traditional, cylindrical post box that was first introduced in 1879 and has remained a common sight in the UK. They were produced in two sizes, with the Type A being the larger and wider of the two, and were made of cast iron with a hinged door and an aperture for posting mail. I was once told a very good tip - if you're not sure if it's a Type A or B box, then hug it and see if you can interlock your hands the other side. If you can, it's a Type B and if you can't, then it's a Type A!

Many feature a royal cypher indicating the monarch during whose reign they were installed, such as (as in this case) George VI. George VI’s cypher is easily distinguishable from his father, George V’s, cypher because of the roman numerals and interlocking letters. George VI cyphers are fairly rare compared with his father George V and great grandmother Queen Victoria. George VI was on the throne for 16 years and for six of those the country was in the midst of the Second World War. The war was the priority for iron production so the variety and number of iron boxes produced during his reign are less than others.

As stated earlier, the basic design dates back to 1879, with modifications made over the years, such as an increased door height and larger apertures as envelope sizes grew. They are typically made of cast iron and feature a hinged door on the front with a security lock.

This box was manufactured by McDowall, Steven & Co Ltd, London & Falkirk.

The above photograph was taken on The Esplanade, Shanklin, Isle of Wight.