FRANCE, Offices in China, Mongtseu, 1903, 75c Deep Violet on Orange, Black Overprint, "Indo-Chine" Inverted (13a; Yvert 14a). Original gum, h.r., deep rich color on fresh paper

FINE AND A MAJOR FRENCH OFFICES IN CHINA ERROR RARITY. THIS IS THE ONLY RECORDED EXAMPLE OF THE 75-CENTIMES WITH THE INVERTED "INDO-CHINE" TABLET AND THE BLACK MONGTSEU OVERPRINT. ONE OF THE KEYS TO A COMPLETE FRENCH COLONIES COLLECTION.

The terms "unique" or "only recorded example" should be cautiously used when describing stamps of any country. In this case, despite the fact that the stamps were issued 120 years ago, the stamp offered here is the only example of the inverted tablet error with the black Mongtseu overprint to come to light, as far as we are aware. This is confirmed in both the Yvert catalogue and on the accompanying Calves certificate. Possession of this stamp is possible for just one individual at a time, which means there can be only one truly complete collection of French Offices in China.

Many collectors are unaware that the inverted table error occurs on the stamps of Canton, Hoi Hao, Mongtseu, Pakhoi, and Yunnan Fou. Remarkably, the Magnolia collection contains examples of each of these major French Offices rarities, including stamps that are thought to be unique.

From the Magnolia collection. With 2004 Calves certificate. Scott $67,500.00. Yvert €75,000.

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