The Queen Mother as a young girl in 1907

The stamps show the Queen Mother's transition from young girl to royal matriarch, charting her changing role in the life of the nation.

First pictured as Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon in 1907, she is then shown as the Duchess of York in 1930, as Queen Consort to King George VI in 1948, and finally as Queen Mother in 1980.

'Fitting tribute'

Became duchess of York upon marrying the future George VI

Gavin Macrae, managing director of Royal Mail stamps and collectibles, said: "The Queen Mother inspired the deepest affection in millions of people in Britain and around the world and will be greatly missed.

"We believe these classic portraits of the Queen Mother's life form a fitting tribute and one that people can keep or give to friends or relations."

Her role changed many times during her 101 years

The commemorative stamps, which go on sale on 25 April, will be available from all UK Post Office branches and by mail order.

Presentation packs will include the stamps together with photographs and information about the Queen Mother.

Became Queen Mother after the king's death in 1952

Until 23 May a commemorative first day cover, containing a set of stamps postmarked "St James's Palace, April 25", will be available.

Over 700 million stamps featuring the Queen Mother's image have been printed over the years in the UK, the Royal Mail estimates.