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SG37 VARIETY. 1859 March.
2d Blue. "Lapirot" Issue.
UNIQUE "INITIAL STATE"
March 1859 2d Blue on bluish paper, position 9, clear to huge margins, used with neat circular framed "PAID" cancel.
This stamp is from the INITIAL STATE of the plate BEFORE REWORKING and therefore from the very earliest or first impression. This state shows the head of Victoria in a form that was not acceptable (often referred to as "dog's head","monkey's head","libel labels" and, in Mauritius itself, as the "Two Pence Mozambique"!). Clearly the plate was withdrawn and the image was reworked.
NO OTHER STAMP HAS BEEN LOCATED with such fine and detailed engraving, and the next impression of the plate - the early impression - shows this position 9 with substantial changes. This item is mentioned in the Stanley Gibbons catalogue as being unique.
This is one of the most important stamp discoveries in recent years. it is dealt with comprehensively and convincingly in the new book "Mauritius - the Primitive Issues" by Arnold Rudge.
B.P.A. and David Brandon Certificates.
A STAMP OF THE GREATEST ORDER OF IMPORTANCE. THE RAREST AND MOST AMAZING OF ALL THE PRIMITIVE ISSUES!
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