Lot 238
1d reddish brown, prepared for use but never issued (16), the more desirable dark shade with characteristic heavier impression, part original gum. Tiny nick in margin at lower left which is merely an irregularity in the separation of the stamps. Very Fine and an elusive color. SG 16a. Unitrade C$18,000 ($13,500).
Scott $5,500
A SUPERLATIVE EXAMPLE OF THIS VERY RARE PRINTING.
Expertization: 1997 B.P.A. Certificate.
Provenance: Gilbert
The current theory as to the production of this shade rarity is best expounded by Robert Pratt. Quite simply, only 80 sheets, or 9,600 stamps of the 1d were available following the initial printing on 23 November 1861; however, the invoice was for 10,080 stamps. The additional 480 stamps are in the red-brown color. This anomaly occurred as a result of a further four sheets being printed following the 5d. As the ink was running out prior to the conclusion of the 5d printing, the printers supplemented the dwindling ink supply with rose ink and then followed on the 5d printing with the printing of the last four sheets of the 1d.
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| Realized $7,500 |
