tradition and experience in classic philately since 1919

Lot# 3696 - Auction 234-243

  • Lot# : 3696 Victoria

    1897: Charity 1 d. (1 s.) blue, a used example on fine postcard with illustration of Major General Sir Hector MacDonald DSO, cancelled by centrally struck "Wangarata" cds in red (Jan 6, 1912). Scarce and most attractive.rnrnNote: The son of a Scottish crofter, 'Fighting Mac' MacDonald enlisted in the Gordon Highlanders as a private at 17, and finished his career as a Major General. He distinguished himself in action at Omdurman (1898), became a popular hero in Scotland and England, and was knighted for his service in the Second Boer War. Posted to Ceylon as Commander-in-Chief of British forces, he committed suicide in Paris in 1903 following accusations of homosexual activity with local Sinhalese boys. His funeral attracted a crowd of over 30'000 in Edinburgh.
    Starting bid : 120 CHF
    Hammer price : 120 CHF