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Lot# 516 - Auction 250-256

  • Lot# : 516 Cape of Good Hope

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    Provisional Issue 1861 (April 12): Woodblock 4 d. (deep) bright blue on laid paper (Gi 14c, BPA cert. 1990) or Woodblock 4 d. blue on laid paper (Gi 14d, cert. RPSL (2019), an unused example with large margins all round and close but well clear at lower right, of fine impression (almost over-inked) and in an astonishing rich colour, tiny thin spot on the top of 'G' of GOOD mentioned for absolute accuracy and not impinging on the appearance in any way; fresh and very fine, unused without gum.rnrnThis example originally turned up in a general collection in the early 1960's, found by Robin Taylor of London & Brighton Auctions which he ran with Ted Proud, it remained in his estate until 1990. The BPA certificate issued in 1990 states "deep bright blue" Gi 14c = £ 120'000. However, when sold in our 2019 auction with this description, the stamp was then submitted by Corinphila on behalf of the buyer to the Royal Philatelic Society in London who issued a certificate (September, 2019) stating 'blue' Gi 14d = £ 32'000 and thus also a very rare stamp in unused condition and stating 'light surface soiling' which is imperceptible even under magnification. Neither certificate mentions the minute thin spot on the top of the 'G' referred to in our original description. The stamp is therefore, with our thanks to the owner,  re-offered on its merits, with both the conflicting certificates which can be seen on our internet site.
    Starting bid : 10,000 CHF
    Hammer price : 18,000 CHF