BRITISH EAST AFRICA, 1891, -1/2a on 3a Black on Red, Initialed "A.B." (34b; SG 24). Nine examples (single, pair, strip of three, and "block" of three), all with selvage from the bottom right corner of the sheet, tied to large part of 1891 cover (with embossed royal arms on flap) by Mombasa circular datestamps, sent to "H. L. Churchill Esq., H. M. Vice Consul, Zanzibar", July 2 originating backstamp and July 3 arrival backstamp, the cover is reduced at right (where another pair was removed) affecting the perfs of one stamp

FINE. A SPECTACULAR AND UNIQUE SHOWPIECE. THE ONLY EXAMPLE OF THIS RARE PROVISIONAL ON COVER AND THE ONLY RECORDED MULTIPLES.

This incredible cover represents a large proportion of all the recorded examples. It has been known since 1899, when Mr. Churchill wrote to the Stanley Gibbons Monthly Journal, describing how he purchased the last -1/2a Provisionals in stock, affixed them to the envelope, and sent it to himself. This is a key showpiece for a gold medal collection of British East Africa.

Ex Hunt, Reynard, and Krieger. Catalogue values as nine single stamps. SG £20,250

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