1c-15c Second Parcel Post Issue, Large Die Essays of Unissued Design (Q12a-E1-Q12g-E1). Complete set of seven die essays on card, each a different color and approximately 30 x 27mm, bright and fresh throughout

VERY FINE. THE UNIQUE SET OF SEVEN DIE ESSAYS OF THE PROPOSED SECOND PARCEL POST ISSUE.

The 1912-13 Parcel Post Issue, with which collectors are familiar (Scott Q1-Q12), contains some of the most beautiful and unusual designs of any stamps issued in the 20th Century, including the first-ever depiction of an airplane on a stamp from any country. This set of comparatively plain designs were approved for use in a second Parcel Post Issue. It covers denominations through the 15c, and dies were made based on these models (see preceding lot for the essays). There was apparently also a 20c design, as we are aware of one die essay (see Siegel Sale 837, lot 387).

On June 26, 1913, the Postmaster General ordered that regular postage stamps would be usable on parcels and that Parcel Post stamps would be usable on regular mail. Without any further need for special stamps, the Second Parcel Post Issue was never produced. The designs on this series were ultimately adopted for use on Documentary stamps in 1917.

Ex Johl, Southgate and Livingston. Scott Retail $1,000.00 each

Image Magnifier / Download

Power Search for Comparables