THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1,The Three Pence Venetian Red Essay on thin soft cream coloured wove paper, prepared in 1851 by printer Ellis of Toronto and mounted on Sanford Fleming's diary page, with "Monday, February 24, 1851" printed dateline and his handwritten note, which reads: "Breakfasted at Ellah's Hotel with Mr. Rutter and Honble. Jas Morris Post Master General Designing postage stamps for him." These few words of great significance, ignited Canada's quest to issue its own postage stamps, VF

THIS ESSAY IS WIDELY REGARDED AS THE MOST IMPORTANT CANADIAN PHILATELIC ITEM IN EXISTENCE.

A 24-page booklet published by Firby in 1996 gives a detailed historical account with census and background information on other known examples in black in private hands, and two examples residing in the permanent collections of the Canadian Postal Archives. Also enclosed are original letters highlighting transactions between previous owners, and an original XVIII century print "Beaver Hunting in Canada" which likely gave Sir Sandford Fleming the inspiration "for the Beaver & Waterfall" as annotated at foot.

Expertization: 1950 Philatelic Foundation certificate, signed by renowned experts of past, Harrison D.S. Haverbeck, Henry M. Goodkind, Louise Boyd Dale (daughter of Alfred Lichtenstein) and others.

Provenance: Sir Sandford Fleming transferred after his death to his son, Sandford Fleming Jr. in 1915.

Sandford Fleming Jr. (private sale, 1934 to Borden Clarke).

H. Borden Clarke (private sale March 1941 to Bruce Robson).

Bruce Robson family estate, Firby Auctions, October 1996; Lot 42 - sold for US$55,000 hammer.

The "Midland Collection of Canada, Firby Auctions, January 2004; Lot 4 - sold for US$110,000 hammer. Remaining in the Brigham collection ever since.

Literature: Illustrated and discussed in details in Arfken, Leggett, Firby, Steinhart "Canada's Pence Era - The Pence Stamps and the Canadian Mail 1851-1859" handbook on pages 7-10 (Figure 6).

IN OUR OPINION, THE SANDFORD FLEMING 3 PENCE ESSAY IS THE MOST SIGNIFICANT ESSAY OR PROOF IN ALL OF CANADIAN PHILATELY, AND IS WIDELY REGARDED AS THE MOST VALUABLE AND DESIRABLE.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1,Original Die Proof in black, engraved for the printers Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Edson, New York by Alfred Jones, on india paper 38.5 x 21.5mm and mounted on archival ledger card measuring 43 x 25mm; classification "261" number in red applied by the American Bank Note Co. away from india paper. This Original Die Proof does not have the "Relief Break" which occurred on the transfer roll - visible during the entire length of issued plate proofs and stamps. A historically significant and UNIQUE die proof - without question one of the most coveted and important Die Proofs in all of Canadian Philately, Very Fine (Unitrade 1 die proof; Minuse & Pratt unlisted)

Provenance: American Bank Note Company Archives, Christie's Robson Lowe, New York, September 1990; Lot 1502.

The "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Pence & Cents Issue (private treaty circa. 1997)

A fabulous die proof of the Three Pence Beaver, unique in private hands. It first came to light in the 1990 American Bank Note Co. Archives auction. It was acquired by the late Ian Bett ("Lindemann"), becoming one of the highlights of his extensive holdings. Shortly after his untimely death in 1996, Ron Brigham was able to purchase it for his collection from Saskatoon Stamp Centre (private treaty, circa. 1997), where it has remained fo the last 25 years.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1P + variety,Plate proof block in the issued colour on card mounted india paper, lower right proof displaying the best known plate variety - the Major Re-entry (Pane A; Position 47) with very strong doubling marks in "EE PEN", the bottom of three of the 3s, and other strong features. A desirable block showing the key variety, VF (Unitrade cat. as normal proofs)

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1TC + variety,Plate proof block in red, colour of issue, on card mounted india paper, horizontal SPECIMEN overprint in carmine; lower right stamp shows the sought-after Major Re-entry (Plate A Position 47) with very prominent doubling in and around "EE PEN" of "THREE PENCE", bottom of three of the 3s, in "POSTAGE" among other traits; the most striking and important plate variety to be found on the three penny Beaver, VF ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1TCi + variety,Trial colour plate proof block in brown red on india paper with horizontal SPECIMEN overprint in dark green; top stamps showing constant Sun Dot variety (Pane A, Position 83-84), VF (Unitrade cat. $ as normal proofs) ex. Henry Gates (Part I, March 1981; Lot 235)

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1TCii,Trial colour plate proof in black on india paper, sheet margin at top, large margins on other sides, VF; ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1TCiv,A seldom seen and choice trial colour plate proof in black on india paper with diagonal SPECIMEN overprint in carmine; a beautiful and key proof, XF; ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1TCvi + variety,Left margin trial colour proof pair in orange yellow on india paper showing the Major Re-entry (Pane B; Position 42) on right proof with doubling marks in nearly all lettering, particularly pronounced in and around "POSTAGE" among other distinctive traits. A very seldom seen plate variety on this striking proof, choice, XF

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1a, v,A selected used example with mostly large margins, visible laid lines and showing quite clearly the Major Re-entry (Pane A; Position 80) plate variety with doubling in left "3s", doubling of inner horizontal frameline at top left, characteristic marks in "EE PEN" of "THREE PENCE", etc. Ideally postmarked with light concentric rings IN BLUE struck well clear from the plate variety features. A nice example of this variety on the 1851 first issue and especially attractive with the coloured cancellation, VF

Expertization: 1976 BPA certificate

Provenance: The "Loch" Collection - Canadian Pence Issue, Firby Auctions, April 1999; Lot 48.

Although listed in Unitrade, no attempt was made to allocate a catalogue value either mint or used stamp in any grade, certainly an indication of how few exist.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1851 (June 15) Folded letter attractively franked at top left with a single 3p orange red on handmade laid paper with clear laid lines, just touching frame at upper right, ample margins on other sides and sheet margin at foot, central concentric rings cancel, ideally tied by Toronto double arc dispatch datestamp and mailed to Scarboro (Scarborough) with same-day receiver backstamp struck in red. A beautiful, early usage of the 3 pence laid paper on cover, seldom seen with a sheet margin and tied by a datestamp, VF (Unitrade 1a)

Provenance: The "Loch" Collection - Canadian Pence Issue, Firby Auctions, April 1999; Lot 54.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1852 (April 15) A superb cover franked with a well margined horizontal imperforate pair of the 3p red on handmade laid paper with strong laid lines, neatly tied by concentric rings, Montreal double arc dispatch datestamp in red with same-ink border exchange arc CANADA handstamp, addressed to East Cambridge, Massachusetts; no backstamp as customary for mail to the United States. A wonderful cover, among the finest existing 3 pence laid paper covers that one can hope to find, XF (Unitrade 1)

Provenance: The "Pipkin" Collection, Sissons Sale 338, June 1974; Lot 12.

Gold Medal Collection - Canadian Pence on Covers, Harmers of New York, October 1982; Lot 1

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1852 (April 12) O.S. Phelps, Clerk of Division Court, No. 2 advertising cover, paying the 6 pence letter rate to the United States with a horizontal pair of 3p red on laid paper with visible laid lines, well clear to very large margins, unusually tied with several strikes of the Cayuga C.W. double arc dispatch (no dater), another strike on reverse with "12th April 52" filled-in date; Hamilton AP 12, Queenstown APR 13 transits, border exchange CANADA / PAID 10Cts two-line handstamp in red; some soiling and couple small tears at foot. A very rare advertising cover franked, F-VF (Unitrade 1)

Provenance: Graham Fairbanks, Sissons Sale 259, April 1967; Lot 34.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 4a, x,The famous "Pack" unused block of six, displaying deep rich colour on fresh paper, clear to mainly large margins all around, tiny tear at left of third stamp, small thin at top right and hint of a marginal crease between lower pairs, the latter two trivial and not mentioned in the accompanying certificate. This very rare unused block additionally shows an elusive STITCH WATERMARK variety running vertically down the left column. A wonderful block of the utmost rarity, Very Fine

Expertization: 1998 Greene Foundation certificate

Provenance: Charles Lathrop Pack, Part II, Harmer, Rooke & Co., April 1945; Lot 72
John Foxbridge (du Pont) Collection (private treaty 1988).

The Weill Brothers, Christie's Robson Lowe, Zurich, November 22, 1989; Lot 1531.

Literature: Illustrated in Arfken, Leggett, Firby & Steinhart "Canada's Pence Era - The Pence Stamps and the Canadian Mail 1851-1859" handbook on page 30 (Figure 21).
Illustrated in Capex '96 Gems of Canadian Philately book on page 15.

A FABULOUS BLOCK - THE LARGEST KNOWN UNUSED MULTIPLE WITH A STITCH WATERMARK VARIETY.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 4a,A remarkable unused vertical pair surrounded by large margins, amazingly deep rich colour on bright fresh paper. This superb pair ranks among the very finest unused multiples of the Three pence Beaver, XF

Expertization: 1994 Greene Foundation certificate

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Pence & Cents Issue (private treaty circa. 1997).

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 4ix,A superb mint example clearly showing the well-documented Cracked Plate variety (Pane A; Position 31) also known as the "Railway Tracks", large margined with exceptional colour and bold radiant impression that further accentuates the variety, hinged remnant with part original gum. A marvelous stamp with the sought-after variety; without any doubt THE FINEST KNOWN mint example, XF

Expertization: 1989 APS certificate

Provenance: Graham Fairbanks, Sissons Sale 259, April 1967; Lot 77.

The "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Pence & Cents Issue (private treaty circa. 1997).

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 4c,The largest known block of this elusive and notoriously fragile paper type - a very impressive used block of six with clear to large margins, torn through middle pair and rejoined, still attractive with unusually clear strikes of four-ring '41' numeral cancels (RF 8) of Sandwich, U.C. Fine appearing and ranking among the most noteworthy of all used three pence multiples when considering its size, paper type and rare numeral cancellations.

Provenance: Dr. Lewis L. Reford Collection of British North America, Part One, Harmer, Rooke & Co., February 1950; Lot 183
Kasimir Bileski Pence Issue Collection, Eaton & Sons, June 1995; Lot 246

Literature: Illustrated in the classic title authored by Fred Jarrett "Stamps of British North America" on page 23.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1852 (July 19) A beautiful, clean blue cover from Montreal to Lynn, Massachusetts, bearing a pair of 3p deep orange red on medium wove paper, just touching frame to ample margins, each stamp with socked-on-nose concentric rings, clear Montreal JY 19 1852 double arc dispatch in red with same-ink border exchange arc "CANADA" handstamp, paying the 6 pence letter rate to the US; no backstamp as customary for mail to the U.S. An attractive and choice cover bearing a pair of Three pence Beaver from second printing order, VF (Unitrade 4ii)

This pair originates from Printing Order No. 2, the first for the wove paper stamps; ordered mid-March 1852 and delivered April 6, 1852.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1856 (September 12) An impressive cover - one of only three Canadian Pence era bisect covers in existence; bearing 3p red on thin wove paper pair and diagonal bisect in a horizontal strip paying the newly adopted reduced 7½p currency letter rate to the United Kingdom, effective May 1856, slight creasing and two small scissor cuts, one touching design, tied by concentric rings, neat Montreal double arc dispatch at left, red London Paid 25 SP 1856 circular receiver further ties the strip. One of the key covers from this collection, perfect for a serious postal history collection, F-VF (Unitrade 4b cat. $50,000; SG 5a £38,000)

Expertization: 1973 RPS of London certificate.

Provenance: Fine B.N.A., Sissons Sale 341, October 1974; Lot 29.

Canadian Pence Issues on Covers "A selection of 29 outstanding items from a famous collection", H.R. Harmer Ltd., December 1976; Lot 3004.

British America Sale, Sotheby Parke Bernet Stamp Auction, May 1980; Lot 45 - sold then for an impressive US$24,000 hammer.

Unknown Provenance, Classic Canada, Danam Auctions, February 1982; Lot 22.

Census: Three covers exist as follows: 1) July 17, 1856 (ex. Dale-Lichtenstein, Nickle); 2) September 10, 1856 (ex. Carrington, Cantor); and 3) September 12, 1856 (offered here)

Origin: A letter by Graham Locke to the editor, published in BNA Topics Vol. 41 No. 4, Whole No. 402 (July - August 1984) on page 5-6, pertains to the three known 3p bisect covers, and regarding this cover reads: "...was discovered in Dollard des Ormeaux, Quebec by a non-philatelist and was sold by Sissons in 1974. This cover has come back onto the market of late, most recently appearing in a Daniel Kelleher Co. sale last November."

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1858 (March 17) Newbury & Birely Importers of Watches, Jewelry, Clocks, Fancy Goods, Silver & Plated Ware, Watch Makers, Hamilton - superb embossed cameo advertising on orange envelope, franked with a selected example of the elusive 3p red on soft horizontally ribbed paper, well clear to large margins and tied by light grid "16" cancellation, neat Hamilton MR 17 1858 double arc dispatch attractively alongside, addressed to a watchmaker in Norwichville. A fabulous item, among the choicest and most attractive Pence franked advertising covers, VF+ (Unitrade 4c)

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1858 (June 18) Folded cover in unusually clean condition addressed to St. Catharines, bearing a superb 3p red on medium wove paper with enormous margins ex Pane A, Position 41 - the "Cracked Plate" variety from Position 31 can be seen prominently at top, the start of the plate variety known as the "Railway Tracks"; neatly tied by grid "16" cancellation with clear Hamilton JU 18 1858 dispatch, light receiver backstamp in red. A great cover for the specialist, XF (Unitrade 4ix, variety)

Provenance: Bertram Collection of Canada, Shanahan's Auctions, February 1959; Lot 153.

BNA Sale, Robson Lowe Ltd., London, November 1963; Lot 806.

Duane Hilmer, Sotheby Parke Bernet Stamp Auction, September 1977; Lot 66.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 12,The phenomenal and UNIQUE mint block of the perforated three pence, radiant fresh colour and in immaculate condition, as it was printed more than 160 years ago, intact perforations all around and completely devoid of the usual flaws so prevalent on this difficult stamp - Canada's first perforated issue; wing margin at right ideally captures large portion of the (Rawdon), Wright, Hatch & Edson, New York plate imprint, quite well centered for the issue with spectacular colour and sharp impression on bright fresh paper, remarkably possessing FULL ORIGINAL GUM with only a couple light hinge marks at top, lower pair NEVER HINGED. A flawless, spectacular block of the highest caliber that has not been offered on the marketplace for nearly 35 years and is surely destined for a world-class collection, Fine+ LH / NH (Unitrade cat. $120,000 as mint singles)

Provenance: General Robert Gill, Robson Lowe Ltd., October 1965; Lot 59.

E. Carey Fox, First Portion, H.R. Harmer, Inc., May 1968; Lot 379.

Ralph Hart, Maresch Private Treaty (first catalogue, 1977), item 64.

Sam Nickle Pence Issue Collection, Firby Auctions, October 1988; Lot 427.

Literature: Illustrated in Robson Lowe "The Encyclopedia of British Empire Postage Stamps, Volume V - British North America", colour plate facing page 160.

Illustrated in Capex '96 Gems of Canadian Philately on page 33.

Illustrated in Arfken, Leggett, Firby, Steinhart "Canada's Pence Era - The Pence Stamps and the Canadian Mail 1851-1859" handbook on page 97 (Figure 74).

This block with imprint at right originates from Plate B, Positions 29-30 / 39-40. An ideal companion to the only known block of the perforated Half penny, also offered in this sale.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1859 (May 9) Mourning cover displaying an outstanding franking consisting solely of the perforated Pence issues with two singles of the Half penny rose and three of the Three pence red, tied by light four-ring '37' cancellations of Québec with clear double arc dispatch below; minor flaws to three stamps not readily apparent. A very impressive cover paying the correct Ten pence Cunard Line rate via New York to London, clear London Paid MY 24 59 CDS postmark in red. A fabulous cover in all respects, combining a UNIQUE perforated Pence issue franking with great aesthetic appeal, VF (Unitrade 11, 12)

Provenance: Henry Lubke Jr., Maresch Sale 268, October 1992; Lot 515.

Sam Nickle Pence Issue Collection, Firby Auctions, October 1988; Lot 421.

Charles deVolpi, Sissons Sale 239, October 1965; Lot 202.

Watson Yuile Three Pence Beaver Collection, Sissons Sale 190, May 1960; Lot 197 - highlighted on the back cover of the sale - brought $950 hammer, second highest realization in this important 198 lot auction of the 1851-1859 3p Beaver stamp.

Literature: Illustrated in Arfken, Leggett, Firby, Steinhart "Canada's Pence Era - The Pence Stamps and the Canadian Mail 1851-1859" handbook on page 98-99 (Figure 76).

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1859 (July 31) Mixed-issue Pence-Cents issues franked cover of the utmost rarity - consisting of single perforated 3p red and first printing 5c brick red perf 11¾, former quite well centered and sound, latter with small flaw at top right, both tied by light four-ring '21' cancellations in black, Montreal JY 31 1859 double arc dispatch; paying the newly adopted Decimal currency 10 cent letter rate to the United States. A fabulous cover - one of a mere three reported in the exhaustive census compiled by Wayne Smith; easily among the most important of all Cents issue covers, F-VF (Unitrade 12, 15c)

Expertization: 1982 BPA certificate

Provenance: Dale-Lichtenstein, Sale 7 - B.N.A. Part Three, H.R. Harmer, Inc., January 1970; Lot 801 - described as "an extremely rare mixed franking used in the first month of the 5c stamp".

Bill Lea Exhibit Collection of Pence & Cents Postal History (private sale).

Sam Nickle, Christie's Robson Lowe, New York, March 1993; Lot 153

Literature: Illustrated in Arfken & Leggett "Canada's Decimal Era", page 7 (figure 2).

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15,An exceptional "Goodall" die proof, engraved, in brownish red on india paper 31 x 21mm die sunk on card 42 x 26mm, in choice condition; one of the five known colours associated with "Goodalls" and almost identical to the issued stamp, VF (Unitrade 15 proof; Minuse & Pratt 15TC2g)

Provenance: Art Leggett Cents Issue Exhibit Collection (private sale).

The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15,"Goodall" Die Proof engraved in bluish green on india paper 32 x 24mm die sunk on card 43 x 25mm, remarkably fresh and choice, rare, XF (Unitrade 15 proof; Minuse & Pratt 15TC2g)

Provenance: Art Leggett Cents Issue Exhibit Collection (private sale).

The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15P,Plate proof block of six in issued colour on card mounted india paper, full ABNC imprint in top margin, in pristine condition, XF (Unitrade cat. as singles only)

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15Piv,Trial colour plate proof block, printed in brownish red on india paper, with horizontal SPECIMEN overprint in black, brilliant fresh and choice, VF

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15TCiii,Trial colour plate proof block printed in brown red on india paper with diagonal SPECIMEN overprint in carmine, large margins all around and in pristine condition, seldom seen as a block and scarcer than catalogue values indicate - this particular proof was not present in the 1990 ABNC sale, XF

Provenance: Gerald Wellburn, Robson Lowe (Toronto), November 1983; Lot 15.

Art Leggett Cents Issue Exhibit Collection (private sale).

The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15TCvii,An extremely rare and most attractive trial colour plate proof block of nine printed in black on india paper, Positions 4-6 / 24-26, showing strong Re-entries on Positions 15 and 16 with very prominent doubling in places (State 1 - Whitworth State 1 - R.24 and R.17), small tear entirely in margin at top. No larger proof block in black exists and none was present in the famous 1990 ABNC Archives sale. A fabulous proof block in remarkably choice condition, XF (Unitrade cat. as normal singles)

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15TCviii + specimen,Trial colour plate proof single in orange yellow on india paper with a very scarce horizontal SPECIMEN (11.5 x 2.5mm) handstamped overprint in dark red. The Minuse & Pratt book lists these on a few Pence & Cents issues but not on the 5 cent Beaver, VF and ideal proof for the specialist. (Unitrade 15TCviii, unlisted with specimen)

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15P + proof,Plate proof in issued colour on india paper with vertically handstamped "PROOF" (7.5 x 2.5mm) overprint in blue, lightly soiled; allegedly the only known example, Fine (Unitrade 15P, unlisted with overprint) ex. "Lindemann" (private treaty circa. 1997)

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15a,The famous Pack - Jephcott - Groten IMPERFORATE BLOCK, displaying a nearly complete American Bank Note Co. New Yor(k) plate imprint in margin at left, well clear to large margins all around, tiny marginal scissor cut between lower pair, ungummed as issued. Characteristic bright colour associated with this very rarely seen imperforate on medium wove paper, in pristine condition. A glorious block in all respects not seen in the market for more than 25 years; a "must-have" for a serious collector contemplating exhibiting at a high-level, Very Fine

Provenance: Charles Lathrop Pack, Part I, Harmer, Rooke & Co., December 1944; Lot 141.

C.M. Jephcott, Maresch Private Treaty, first catalogue, 1977; item 73.

Arthur Groten, Maresch Sale 132, September 1981; Lot 139.

Maresch Private Treaty, second catalogue, 1982; item 138.

The "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Pence & Cents Issue (private treaty circa. 1997)

Literature: Illustrated in Winthrop Boggs "The Postage Stamps and Postal History of Canada" handbook on page 184.

Only three blocks (and fewer pairs) exist as follows:

1) the block offered here.

2) a similar imprint block, ex. Dale-Lichtenstein, Sale 5 - B.N.A. Part Two, May 1969; Lot 604 - described as "part o.g.; one stamp in left pair badly thinned, tiny thin in margin of right stamp".

3) a left margin mint block, tiny portion of imprint shows at bottom left, large part original gum. ex. Dale-Lichtenstein, Sale 2 - B.N.A. Part One, November 1968; Lot 327, and Ron Brigham collection.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15,An extraordinary mint block of nine with bright, vivid colour and superior centering for this issue, minor crease on top right stamp, blunt perf on stamp below and light gum blemish on two others, nevertheless in an excellent state of preservation with FULL ORIGINAL GUM, NEVER HINGED. A very impressive multiple of the highest caliber, exceptionally fresh, and ideally combining absolute rarity and desirability. One of the greatest showpieces related to the Five cent Beaver, VF NH (Unitrade cat. for nine mint NH singles)

Provenance: Vincent Graves Greene Collection, Sissons Sale 346, February 1975; Lot 215.

Arthur Groten, Maresch Sale 132, September 1981; Lot 147.

Unknown provenance, Ian Kimmerly Auctions Sale 32, January 1993; Lot 691.

Art Leggett, Cents Issue Exhibit Collection (private sale).

The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

Searching for comparable multiples of the 5 cent Beaver we were able to find:

(1) a poorly centered, no gum block of ten originating from the Jarrett collection (Sissons, December 1959; Lot 58).

(2) a nicely centered mint OG block of nine with bends, from Dale-Lichtenstein (Sale 2 - BNA Part One, November 1968; Lot 323), "Carrington" (June 2002; Lot 3307).

(3) an off-centre mint block of nine with margin at foot ex. Dale-Lichtenstein (Sale 10 - Canada, December 1970; Lot 355), Arthur Groten (September 1981; Lot 148), Sam Nickle (March 1993; Lot 243), "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15c,An extremely well centered mint vertical pair with sheet margin at right, in the deep rich shade commonly known as "Brick Red", superior centering unlike many examples (of any printing) we have handled, full original gum, light hinge remnants. A superb mint pair of this distinctive first printing, XF OG and rare thus.

Provenance: The "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15v,Very scarce mint single displaying the very prominent and sought-after Major Re-entry (State 10; Position 28), a remarkable plate variety with very prominent doubling throughout left side of the design among several other traits, amazingly rich colour, somewhat disturbed large part original gum. A very scarce mint example of this significant plate variety - the best and most prominent of the entire Cents issue, Fine+ OG; clear 1962 RPS of London certificate

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15,A very well centered mint single, bright colour with late stage of the plate impression, original gum partly disturbed from hinge removal, VF

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 15b,Horizontal pair used together with a very rare diagonal bisect to make the required Allan Line packet rate of 12½c to the United Kingdom, clearly tied by grids to mourning cover piece, portion of Montreal datestamp visible at left. Covers are virtually non-existent (we are unaware of even one cover), making this lovely item quite desirable, VF

Expertization: 2001 Greene Foundation certificate

Provenance: Dale-Lichtenstein, Sale 2 - B.N.A. Part One, H.R. Harmer Inc., November 1968; Lot 328 - realized then an impressive US$600.

Sam Nickle, Christie's Robson Lowe, New York, March 1993; Lot 250.

Literature: Illustrated and mentioned in Winthrop Boggs "The Postage Stamps and Postal History of Canada" handbook on page 206-207 (Figure 14).

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1866 (August 20) W.R. Brodie Merchants, Quebec albino embossed advert envelope endorsed "per Lady Head via Pictou", docketing at left; from Quebec it was carried aboard The Lady Head, then posted on arrival at Pictou, Nova Scotia; bearing single 5c dark vermilion, perf 12 tied by oval mute grid cancel of NS, Pictou AU 20 1866 double arc dispatch alongside Wallace, NS AU 22 receiver backstamps, light central crease to envelope only. Reportedly the only known usage of a 5 cent Decimal from the Maritimes prior to Canadian Confederation (one of just two reported Cents Issue covers), F-VF (Unitrade 15)

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1860 (December 31) Mourning cover front to France displaying a spectacular franking consisting of single 1c deep rose and four single 5c vermilion, all perf 11¾, neatly positioned at top and ideally postmarked with clearly struck concentric rings, Sault-Au-Recollet, C.E. postmark partially touched up by postmaster with same-ink filled-in manuscript date, London Paid JA 19 61 CDS in red with two oval "PD" instructional markings, one of which ties two 5 cent stamps, French transit CDS further ties stamp; sealed tear at lower left. A very rare Cunard Line rate to France with wonderful eye-appeal - of the mere four recorded (three at 21-cent) this is the only recorded with this franking, Fine+ (Unitrade 14, 15 early printings)

Provenance: Gerald Wellburn, Robson Lowe (Toronto), November 1983; Lot 165.

Art Leggett Cents Issue Exhibit Collection (private sale).

The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

Census: This is cover No. 3 listed in Arfken & Leggett "Canada's Decimal Era 1859-1868" handbook on Table 4: Cunard Rate to France, page 201.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1866 (October 15) An unusual and visually striking Mutual Assurance Association of Canada, multi-page premium note for a farmer's three year insurance coverage for the amount of $500. Mailed from London, C.W. to Mersea, Ontario as a letter paying the 5 cent domestic rate, light Leamington OC 17 transit backstamp. Very attractive, VF (Unitrade 15)

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1860 (August 11) Prince Albert in Military Uniform illustrated "Welcome to Canada" patriotic cover, bearing an early printing 5c deep vermilion, perf 11¾, tied by neat concentric rings, clear Montreal double arc dispatch; cover slightly reduced at left clear of portrait and in otherwise excellent shape, addressed to Smiths Falls with AU 13 receiver backstamp. Very attractive and one of the very few Prince Albert patriotic cover known, VF (Unitrade 15 early printing)

Provenance: Vincent Graves Greene Collection, Sissons Sale 346, February 1975; Lot 225

An original photograph 59 x 89mm, taken by Della Torre & Co. of Halifax, Nova Scotia (circa. 1860) is included. This photo-portrait appears to be the model from which this patriotic cachet was inspired.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1866 (circa.) Steam engine, threshing machine and reaper all-over illustrated advertising cover, in red on amber, on reverse all-over printed text of Brantford Steam Engine Works, franked with a 5 cent vermilion tied by mute grid, indistinct postmark below, underpaid the required 10 cent letter rate to the US, deemed unpaid with "10c" handstamp due from the recipient. A superb advertising cover that has graced two famous collections of the past, XF (Unitrade 15)

Provenance: Gerald Wellburn Cents issue collection, Robson Lowe (Toronto), November 1983; Lot 144.

Alfred Caspary, Sale 5 - British North America, H.R. Harmer, Inc. New York, October 1956; Lot 162.

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1863 (May 22) The Canada Life Assurance Co. Hamilton, C.W. all-over illustrated advertising cover mailed registered from Hamilton to Chatham, U.C., bearing horizontal pair of 1c rose, perf 12 x 11¾, one stamp creased, and a single 5c vermilion, perf 11¾x12, tied by Hamilton duplex, paying 5 cent domestic letter rate plus registration fee of 2 cents; next-day Chatham MY 23 arrival backstamps. Most appealing and VF (Unitrade 14viii, 15)

Provenance: Dale-Lichtenstein, Sale 5 - B.N.A. Part Two, H.R. Harmer Inc., New York, May 1969; Lot 575

THREE PENCE AND FIVE CENTS 1862 (June 25) The Canada Life Assurance Co. Hamilton, C.W. all-over illustrated advertising envelope, missing backflap, from Hamilton to Saint John, New Brunswick and franked with a single 5c vermilion, perf 11¾, with a very noticeable short entry variety at lower left, tied by dispatch duplex; horizontal cover crease just clear of stamp. Paying a scarce interprovincial 5 cent letter rate, via railway to Portland, Maine and then by steamer to Saint John. A scarce and attractive advertising cover to New Brunswick, F-VF (Unitrade 15 early printing)

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 2TCii,A very scarce trial colour plate proof block in orange yellow on india paper, nearly complete Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Edson, New Y(ork) imprint in right margin, minute thin spot at top right. A visually striking block - few exist, VF (Unitrade cat. as four singles) ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 2TCiv,Trial colour plate proof printed in grey on india paper with the elusive diagonal SPECIMEN overprint in red, large margined, choice VF+ ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 2TCvii variety,Trial colour plate proof in dark grey on india paper, tear at left, large margins, with very rarely seen horizontal SPECIMEN (11.5 x 2.5mm) handstamp overprint in deep red. Believed to be the ONLY KNOWN example, VF (Minuse & Pratt 2P3S-Ch)

Provenance: The "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

Literature: Illustrated in Winthrop Boggs, "The Postage Stamps and Postal History of Canada" handbook on page 174 (Figure 54).

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 2TCxi,Trial colour plate proof printed in grey blue on india paper with vertical SPECIMEN overprint in carmine, VF

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 2TCv + variety,Trial colour plate proof pair printed in grey on india paper with vertical SPECIMEN overprint in orange, showing a striking pre-print paper fold running diagonally on left stamp and overprint. The first one we recall seeing on any Six pence proof, VF ex. "Midland" Collection of Canada (January 2004; Lot 12)

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 2,An extraordinarily rare mint pair of Canada's first issue, displaying unmistakable colour, impression and paper with visible laid lines, surrounded by well clear to large margins, small faults on left stamp, overall light soiling and minor stains mainly visible from the back, overall with pleasing appearance and remarkably retaining a large part original gum - rarely encountered on any Six pence laid paper. ONLY ONE OTHER PAIR EXISTS in unused condition (no other multiples are known) making this pair rarer than the celebrated Twelve penny black pairs. Among the rarest mint multiples of the entire Pence era, Fine OG (Unitrade cat. $120,000 as two mint OG singles)

Expertization: 1990 Greene Foundation certificate

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Pence & Cents Issue (private treaty circa. 1997).

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 10,A rare unused single in the unmistakable shade, clear impression associated with this short-lived printing, slightly in frameline in two places to very large margins, light crease. A very nice appearing example for this most elusive Pence stamp in unused condition, often missing from even advanced collections, Fine

Expertization: 1995 Greene Foundation certificate

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 1852 (March 4) Folded lettersheet in bright, fresh, clean condition, mailed from Montreal to New York, franked with a large margined 6p slate violet on handmade laid paper, socked-on-nose concentric rings cancellation, clear Montreal double arc dispatch at left with instructional marking "Too Late" italic straightline in red, border exchange office two-line "CANADA Paid 10Cts" handstamp in red and U.S. "PAID" for 6 pence letter rate to the United States, couple file folds away from stamp. A marvelous single-franking cover to the United States, XF (Unitrade 2)

Provenance: Henry Conland British North America Postal History, H.R. Harmer Inc., April 2001; Lot 598

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 1856 (December 1) Blue cover with pre-printed addressee "The Manager, Bank of British North America, Brantford." bearing an extremely rare domestic franking consisting of two examples of the 6p deep slate grey on wove paper, left stamp cut in at left side, otherwise both stamps with clear to very large margins; cancelled by an unusual very early usage of a segmented cork cancel, clear Hamilton double arc dispatch at left, manuscript "Registered" denoting the required 1 penny registry fee was prepaid in cash, light partial blue receiver backstamp. Minor cover wrinkling from heavy original content of the letter and portion of top backflap missing from red wax seal removal. A spectacular and immensely rare 13 pence registered quadruple domestic letter rate, F-VF (Unitrade 5)

Provenance: Gerald Wellburn Canada Pence Issue Collection (private sale 1980s)

Census: According to the Canada Pence Issue 1851-1859 Census compiled by Wayne Smith (as of January 2022), this is the only known domestic registered cover franked with two 6 pence stamps. There is a similarly franked cover recorded in the census, mailed domestically as a Money Letter (we have not seen it).

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 1859 (May 26) An impressive orange envelope in a remarkable state of preservation, bearing a choice, large margined imperforate 6 pence reddish purple on thick soft fibrous paper with fabulous true colour and bright impression, ideally tied by light, legible four-ring '51' cancellation, light Brockville split ring dispatch struck at left; paying the 6 pence letter rate to Chicago, light PAID handstamp in red; no backstamp as customary for mail addressed to the US. Without a doubt, one of the finest existing covers bearing the sought-after Six pence on thick soft paper; rarely encountered in this premium quality, XF (Unitrade 10)

Provenance: Bill Lea Exhibit Collection of Canada Pence & Cents Postal History
Gold Medal Collection - Canadian Pence Issues on Covers, Harmers of New York, October 1982; Lot 35.

Ed Richardson Canada Postal History Collection, Firby Auctions, November 1991; Lot 523.

The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

AN EXTREMELY FINE COVER BEARING A SELECTED SIX PENCE ON THICK SOFT PAPER. A TRUE CONDITION RARITY WHICH HAS VIRTUALLY NO EQUAL.

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 1859 (March) Small cover in immaculate condition with handwritten letter enclosed, franked with an outstanding example of the perforated 6p brownish grey, displaying large margins for the issue with superior centering, intact perforations and rich colour, tied by light diamond grid cancellation of Toronto with split ring dispatch, sent to Penfield, New York, "PAID" handstamp in red and no backstamp as customary for the mail to the US. Quite possibly THE FINEST SIX PENCE PERFORATED FRANKED COVER - an absolute showpiece, of great rarity with these lofty attributes, XF (Unitrade 13)

Provenance: John Kay, Harmer, Rooke & Co., January 1944; Lot 665.

Dave Roberts, Maresch Sale 315, March 1997; Lot 79.

John Siverts, Part II, Maresch Sale 230, September 1989; Lot 63.

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 16,An immaculate fresh, "Goodall" Die Proof, engraved, printed in bluish green on india paper 22 x 27mm, die sunk on card 28 x 32mm; unusually choice and very scarce thus, XF (Minuse & Pratt 16TC2g)

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 16,"Goodall" Die Proof, engraved, printed in dark yellow brown on india paper 23 x 24mm die sunk on card 31 x 35mm; characteristic engraver's etched marks at top right associated with these. In pristine fresh condition and very seldom offered, XF (Minuse & Pratt 16TC2g)

Provenance: Fred Goodhelpsen Collection (private sale late 1970s).

Art Leggett Cents Issue Exhibit Collection (private sale).

The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 16,"Goodall" Die Proof, engraved, printed in deep orange red on card mounted india paper 23 x 27mm, originating from the compound die (with the 12 pence), minor mounting mark on back, eye-arresting, vivid colour, VF (Minuse & Pratt 16TC1a)

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 16P,Plate proof block in the issued first printing colour on india paper, selected and fresh with sheet margin at right; blocks of this are quite scarce, VF

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 16Pi,Plate proof block in the issued first printing colour on card mounted india paper, vertical SPECIMEN overprint in carmine, upper left proof shows the elusive Major Re-entry (Position 29). A very scarce block display the sought-after plate variety, VF (Unitrade cat. as normal proof singles) ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 16Pii,Plate proof single in the issued first printing colour on india paper, with the elusive diagonal SPECIMEN overprint in carmine, VF

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 17c, vi,An outstanding mint block in the distinctive colour and impression associated with this rare imperforate, right portion of the ABNC imprint at top; small thin mentioned in accompanying cert. is quite frankly undiscernible. Very impressive is the fact this block has nearly FULL ORIGINAL GUM, lightly hinged. A spectacular block and of utmost rarity, VF LH

We are aware of only one other imperforate block of the Ten cent Consort (ex. Dale-Lichtenstein, Sale 2; Henry Hussey, Highlands).

Expertization: 1987 Greene Foundation certificate

Provenance: Dale-Lichtenstein, Sale 5 - B.N.A. Part Two, H.R Harmer Inc., May 1969; Lot 621, November 1968; Lot 341 .

Art Leggett Cents Issue Exhibit Collection (private sale).

The "Lindemann" Collection (private sale circa. 1997).

Interestingly enough this block Position 9-10 / 19-20 shows the constant plate flaw, above "C" of "CANADA", a variety that appears on all stamps in the last two columns of the sheet in all printings from 1864 onward. Additionally, the lower right stamp also shows the "Close Shave" variety, a noticeable light area in the Prince's chin.

Unitrade value is $125,000 (as two pairs) if the 150% premium for Original Gum is factored in, without value added for the plate varieties.

ONE OF THE VERY FEW IMPERFORATE MULTIPLES OF THE ENTIRE DECIMAL ISSUE THAT STILL RETAINS ORIGINAL GUM.

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 17b,A very rare mint block of an early printing, brilliant fresh colour and full original gum, hinged at top, lower right stamp very lightly hinged and lower left stamp NEVER HINGED. A fabulous mint block that has graced three pre-eminent collections of the past, F-VF (Unitrade 17b early printing, Positions 36-37 / 46-47)

Provenance: Dale-Lichtenstein, Sale 2 - B.N.A. Part One, H.R. Harmer Inc., November 1968; Lot 349 - described "o.g. fairly centered, fresh, extremely rare".

Arthur Groten, Maresch Sale 133, September 1981; Lot 254 - identified as "purple brown PO3B" and described "centered with bottom stamps n.h., v.f."

The "Carrington" Collection of the Province of Canada 1851-1864, Matthew Bennett Auctions, June 2002; Lot 3331

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 17a,A rarely seen mint block of this particularly distinctive shade, unusually well centered with sheet margin at right, disturbed OG with minor stains visible mostly along perfs, all of which is inconsequential as it is likely the only known block in this shade, VF (Unitrade 17a, Positions 39-40 / 49-50)

The upper left stamp Position 39, shows a strong impression of the "C" plate flaw, above "C" of "CANADA".

Expertization: 1992 Greene Foundation certificate

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

Maresch Private Treaty (Third Catalogue), 1983; item 152.

British North American Sale, Harmers of New York, February 1980; Lot 127.

Fred Goodhelpsen Collection (private sale late 1970s).

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 17,A very impressive mint horizontal strip of five, as fresh as the day it was printed over 150 years ago with exceptional colour and impression on equally pristine fresh paper, portion of ABNC imprint at right; negligible perf flaw at foot of right stamp, a fabulous mint strip (Positions 76-80) with virtually full, fresh original gum, showing only the faintest of hinging. A wonderful Ten cent Consort mint multiple, F-VF VLH (Unitrade 17, plate positions 76-80)

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection (private sale circa. 1997).

Art Leggett Cents Issue Exhibit Collection (private sale).

Unknown provenance, Ian Kimmerly Auctions, Sale 32, January 1993; Lot 701.

Clifton Huff Cents Issue, Maresch Sale 207, November 1987; Lot 277.

Arthur Groten, Maresch Sale 133, September 1981; Lot 256 - described "as full OG and probably NH".

Fred Goodhelpsen Collection (private sale late 1970s)

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 17e,A remarkable unused example of this challenging early printing with deep rich colour and bold impression on fresh paper, superior centering for the issue, intact perforations all around. A superb stamp in all respects, very few can rival its attributes, XF (Unitrade 17e)

Expertization: 1959 BPA certificate

A CHOICE AND VERY ATTRACTIVE EXAMPLE OF THIS EARLY PRINTING (FROM THIRD PRINTING ORDER), RARELY SEEN IN SUCH PREMIUM QUALITY.

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 17,An exceptionally well centered mint example of this challenging stamp, with radiant pastel colour from a later printing order and possessing large part original gum. A superior stamp that will stand out in anyone's collection, XF

Expertization: 1986 Greene Foundation cert. (identified as old CS number 15e)

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

A SUPERB MINT TEN CENT RED LILAC SHADE. A REMARKABLE STAMP, MUCH NICER THAN WHAT ONE IS ACCUSTOMED TO SEEING.

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 17,A nicely centered unused example in an appealing shade on fresh paper, intact perforations well clear of design on three sides, VF

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 1859 (October 30) An exceptional cover in choice condition with a spectacular franking consisting of a single 5c vermilion alongside first printing 10c horizontal pair and single in the unmistakable black brown shade, perf 11¾, the pair and 5c with clipped perfs from scissor separation (Postmaster's old habits still prevailed from the Pence era). All nicely tied by concentric rings, clear St. Andrews C.E. double arc dispatch at left; an impressive and extremely rare franking paying the double letter weight to the United Kingdom on the Cunard Line, via Montreal and Boston, backstamped Montreal OC 30 transit, London NO 14 and Hungerford NO 14 arrival CDS postmark, Fine appearing stamps on a VF+ cover. (Unitrade 15, 16)

Provenance: Bill Lea Exhibit Collection of Canada Pence & Cents Postal History (private sale).

Henry Lubke Jr. (Third Portion), Maresch Sale 272, December 1992; Lot 570.

According to Firby census of Cents issue covers, THIS IS THE ONLY KNOWN FRANKING bearing three examples of the 10 cent stamp (any printings) and a single 5 cent, overpaid by one cent, the double Cunard Line rate (34 cent).

In our opinion this is the LARGEST KNOWN FRANKING of the sought-after Ten cent black brown shade (Printing Order 1A) on a complete cover - we know of a franking with three examples on a front only. An important and significant Cents issue cover of great appeal.

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 1860 (March 13) Orange Brown envelope in clean condition with albino embossed illustrated advertising of F.G. Beckett & Co. "Steam engine" manufacturers Hamilton, bearing a quite well centered 10c purple brown (PO 3B) tied by grid cancellation of Hamilton with double arc dispatch at left, faint Canada Paid 10cts border exchange handstamp in red; backstamp missing, no backstamp as customary for mail to the US, VF (Unitrade 17e)

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 1861 (December 18) Orange cover in choice condition, showing albino embossed Strongs Hotel, Dundas St., London, Canada advertising, bearing a well centered 10c dark purple brown (PO 5B), perf 11¾ tied by London duplex, addressed to Philadelphia; no backstamp as customary for mail to the US. An attractive, early hotel advertising cover, VF (Unitrade 17e shade)

Provenance: E. Carey Fox, Second Portion, H.R. Harmer, Inc., October 1968; Lot 139

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 1862 (July 11) R.S. Williams Manufacturer & Importer of Pianoes, Melodeons, yellow advertising cover in choice condition bearing a well centered 10c dark brown (PO 8B), perf 11¾ tied by diamond grid cancellation of Toronto with split ring datestamp (missing last year date digit), addressed to New Hampshire, USA; no backstamp as customary for mail during that era to the US. A visually striking and most appealing advertising cover, VF+ (Unitrade 17b)

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 1865 (April 5) Albino embossed H.W. Ireland Hardware Broker Montreal albino embossed advert cover bearing, a bright fresh vertical pair of the 10c dull maroon (PO 17A), perf 12x11¾, tied by clear Montreal duplex, small cover tear at lower right. A beautiful cover paying a scarce double letter rate to, Pittsford, New York, no backstamp as customary for mail to the US, VF (Unitrade 17)

Provenance: E. Carey Fox (Second Portion), H.R. Harmer, Inc., October 1968; Lot 140

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 1865 (April 29) A remarkably fresh, clean amber coloured envelope with O.L. & A.K. Ballard Manufacturers of Ebery Description of Stone and Rockingham Ware, Burlington, VT., bearing a well centered 10c bright maroon (PO 18A - believed to be earliest recorded usage), perf 12, tied by Montreal duplex to Burlington, Vermont. Most appealing and choice, VF+ (Unitrade 17)

SIX PENCE AND TEN CENTS 1867 (September 3) St. Lawrence Hall illustrated advertising manila coloured envelope addressed to New Jersey, United States, franked with a nicely centered 10c darkish brown red (PO 23A), perf 12, slight corner crease, tied by neat Montreal duplex, showing the Position 20 "Close Shave" (chin) plate variety along with "C" flaw above "CANADA" - both varieties only appearing on later printings. A great cover for the specialist, VF (Unitrade 17vi + variety)

Provenance: Arthur Groten, Maresch Sale 133, September 1981; Lot 302

TWELVE PENCE 3TC,An extraordinary Trial Colour Die Proof, engraved, printed in dark purple on the distinctive thin hard bond paper (0.003" thick), shows characteristic "scar" at "CE" of "PENCE" and originating from the Compound Die. A beautiful proof exceptional in all respects, XF GEM (Minuse & Pratt 3TC3d)

Provenance: The "Midland" collection of Canada, Firby Auctions, January 2004; Lot 64.

TWELVE PENCE 3TC,An exceptional Engraved Die Proof printed in blue black on the distinctive greyish thin hard bond paper (0.0025" thick), showing characteristic "scar" at "CE" of "PENCE" from the compound die and devoid of any flaws, quite remarkable for this very scarce coloured die proof, XF (Minuse & Pratt 3TC1d)

Provenance: Kasimir Bileski Pence Issue Collection, Eaton & Sons, June 1995; Lot 215

TWELVE PENCE 3TC,"Goodall" Die Proof, engraved, printed in a beautiful shade of dull bluish green on india paper 23 x 29mm; showing the characteristic "scar" die at "CE" of "PENCE". An outstanding die proof in immaculate, fresh and flawless condition, XF (Minuse & Pratt 3TC3g)

TWELVE PENCE 3TC,Engraved Trial Colour Die Proof, printed in deep orange red on india paper with natural unevenness in places, characteristic "scar" at "CE" of "PENCE" from the compound die proof, VF and attractive (Minuse & Pratt 3TC3a)

Provenance: William Hinde, Robson Lowe Ltd., London, March 1958; Lot 36.

TWELVE PENCE 3Pii,A very rare plate proof block of four in the issued colour on india paper, diagonal SPECIMEN overprint in carmine, tiny spot on lower right proof visible from reverse only. Likely the only surviving twelve pence proof block with diagonal specimen - even as a single this item ranks among the scarcest Canada pence proofs. An important showpiece, VF

Provenance: Sam Nickle collection, Christie's Robson Lowe, New York, March 1993; Lot 20.

The "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Pence & Cents Issue (private treaty circa. 1997).

TWELVE PENCE 3Pi,A brilliant fresh and choice plate proof pair in issued colour with vertical SPECIMEN overprint in carmine on card mounted india paper, both with rich colour and sharp impression, a VF and scarce proof pair

TWELVE PENCE 3,A flawless mint example of this world-renowned classic stamp, displaying superior physical attributes to many of its peers with ample to large margins, very strong colour and bold impression on the distinctive laid paper, with visible laid lines and more importantly possessing unusually full original gum, lightly hinged. All these traits combined are very seldom found on this particular stamp. A beautiful stamp in all respects, purchased by Ron Brigham when the famous "Lindemann" collection (Ian Bett) was sold by dealer John Jamieson in a series of private treaty catalogues more than 25 years ago. Described then (in 1997) by Jamieson as: "certainly one of finest examples of this Great Rarity remaining. It was purchased in August of 1975 and has remained part of our client's collection ever since." A true iconic stamp of Canadian Philately, Very Fine, Lightly Hinged

Expertization: 1987 Greene Foundation certificate

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Pence & Cents Issue (private treaty circa. 1997).

AN UNUSUALLY CHOICE FULL MARGINED MINT EXAMPLE OF THIS CANADIAN CLASSIC STAMP.

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 8,American Bank Note Co. trade sample proof, engraved, printed in bright yellowish green on thicker white wove vertical mesh paper (0.004" thick), superb and with great eye-appeal, XF

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 8,American Bank Note Co. trade sample proof, engraved, printed in deep blue on white wove horizontal mesh paper (0.003" thick), gummed, faint crease, a strikingly beautiful coloured proof, VF OG

Provenance: Vincent Graves Greene Collection, Sissons Sale 346, February 1975; Lot 144

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 8,American Bank Note Co. trade sample proof, LITHOGRAPHED, printed in deep garnet red on white bond paper (0.003" thick), a striking proof in a seldom seen rich colour and printed by the lithographic process, XF

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 8,American Bank Note Co. trade sample proof, engraved, printed in black on white wove vertical mesh paper (0.003" thick), perforated and partly gummed by ABNC. A superb and rarely seen perforated proof, VF OG

Provenance: Henry Gates (Part 1), Maresch Sale 124, March 1981; Lot 378.

The "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa 1997).

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 8,American Bank Note Co. trade sample proof, engraved, printed in deep yellow orange on white wove vertical mesh paper (0.003" thick), gummed and perforated by ABNC. An exceptional and rare coloured proof of wonderful appeal, XF OG

Provenance: Henry Gates (Part 1), Maresch Sale 124, March 1981; Lot 382.

Maresch Private Treaty (third catalogue, 1983), item 47.

The "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 8,American Bank Note Co. trade sample proof, engraved, printed in bright yellow green on white wove vertical mesh paper, perforated and gummed by ABNC, a rare and very appealing coloured proof, VF OG

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 8TCii + variety,A superb trial colour plate proof block of six printed in black on card mounted india paper, vertical SPECIMEN overprint in carmine and displaying the full plate imprint in left margin, proving it originated from the plate of 120 subjects (Positions 13-14 / 37-38). Position 26 (right proof in middle pair) shows very clearly the characteristics of the elusive Strong Re-entry with doubling in "PE" of "PENCE", upper and lower left vertical frames, etc. A remarkable block, VF+

The elusiveness of this plate variety, first mentioned in Fred Jarrett's handbook (1929) only to be rediscovered recently (2015), can be explained by the fact it is only found on the much scarcer plate of 120 subjects. Most known proofs of the Half penny come from sheets of 100, where the two left columns (which included the variety) were removed to produce a plate size suitable for perforating Canada's first perforated issue in 1858.

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 8Pi,A beautifully fresh and choice plate proof block of six in the issued colour on india paper, showing full imprint in right margin and two well-documented Major Re-entries (Positions 70 & 80 from the trimmed plate of 100 subjects) visible on second and fourth stamps. An impressive plate imprint and variety block, VF+ (Unitrade cat. as normal singles)

Provenance: Henry Gates, Part 1, Maresch Sale 124, March 1981; Lot 357

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 8P,Plate proof block in the issued colour on india paper, nearly complete Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Edson New Yo(rk) imprint at foot (Positions 87-88 / 97-98 in the trimmed plate of 100 subjects), VF

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 8TCiii,Trial colour plate proof block printed in brown on india paper with vertical SPECIMEN overprint in carmine, negligible mount mark on top left stamp; attractive, fresh and VF

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 8i,A remarkable unused block with part sheet margin at left, displaying huge margins and fabulous colour on fresh white wove paper, minute scuff on lower left stamp is hardly discernible, nevertheless a very seldom seen block especially in such superior condition, VF-XF

The upper left stamp (Pos 49 in the setting of 120) shows a strong extended vertical frameline variety at lower left.

Expertization: Greene Foundation cert. (1984, as CS 4a).

Provenance: Dale-Lichtenstein, Sale 7 - British North America Part Three, H.R. Harmer, Inc., January 1970; Lot 891 - originally an irregular block of 14 from which it originates

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 8b,The extraordinary, UNIQUE used block of four on the distinctive and very seldom encountered vertically ribbed paper, in flawless condition - completely devoid of the multitude of faults usually seen on examples of this fragile paper; touching outer frameline at right to extra large margins with portion of adjacent stamps at top, ideally struck with two concentric rings cancels. One of the rarest and most valuable items of the Half penny stamp, with excellent pedigree, F-VF

Expertization: 1997 Greene Foundation and 1997 Charles Firby Expertizing certificates

Provenance: Sam Nickle Pence Issue Collection, Firby Auctions, October 1988; Lot 393

E. Carey Fox, First Portion, H.R. Harmer Inc., May 1968; Lot 348.

Charles Lathrop Pack, Part I, Harmer, Rooke & Co., December 1944; Lot 103 - offered then as a block of six.

Literature: Illustrated in Winthrop Boggs "The Postage Stamps and Postal History of Canada" handbook on page 150 (as the original block of six).

A SPECTACULAR BLOCK FROM THE FAMOUS "PACK" COLLECTION. AN IMPORTANT AND UNIQUE SHOWPIECE.

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 8,A selected unused single in a lovely deeper shade on pristine fresh paper, ample even margins all around. A nice stamp, VF

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 1857 (November 24) A clean blue folded cover mailed from Point Levi, L.C. to Québec, across the St. Lawrence River, bearing a horizontal pair of half penny rose on medium wove paper, imperforate, in outer frame at right with ample to large margins on other sides, tied by a superbly struck Point Levi NO 24 1857 double arc dispatch, same day receiver backstamp, paying the very rare adjacent post office rate (also known as "ferriage across St. Lawrence River" rate) - THE EARLIEST KNOWN PENCE FRANKED COVER paying this rate; pencil signed by expert Peter Holcombe. A great showpiece for a serious postal history collection, VF (Unitrade 8 + 8 variety)

Right-hand stamp shows the Major Re-entry (Position 60 from plate of 120 subjects) with clear doubling at bottom of "HALF" and in oval above "AGE" of "POSTAGE", among other traits.

Expertization: 1986 Peter Holcombe certificate

Provenance: Guilford Collection of Canada Pence Issues, Siegel, September 1994; Lot 2125

Census: This is cover No. 1 listed in "Canada's Pence Era - The Pence Stamps and the Canadian Mail 1851-1859" handbook on Table 22: Adjacent Post Office Rate Pence Covers, page 116. One of six covers listed in the table.

Known examples further supported in Canada Pence Issue 1851-1859 Cover Census, compiled by Wayne Smith; five covers bearing two imperforate Half penny stamps for the One Penny rate have been recorded; one other cover exists paying this rate, franked with a pair of perforated Half penny.

Literature: Illustrated and discussed in Arfken, Leggett, Firby, Steinhart "Canada's Pence Era - The Pence Stamps and the Canadian Mail 1851-1859" on page 116 (Figure 92).

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 1857 (August 31) Folded cover from Hamilton addressed locally, bearing a superb margined example of ½p rose on medium wove paper imperforate, tied by centrally struck, partially legible, rare four-ring '16' numeral cancellation, clear Hamilton AU 31 1857 double arc dispatch at left, paying the half penny drop letter rate, attractive and VF (Unitrade 8)

Provenance: Ed Richardson, Firby Auctions, November 1991; Lot 454.

The Weill Brothers, Christie's Robson Lowe, Zurich, November 1989; Lot 1555.

The "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Pence & Cents Issue (private treaty circa. 1997).

Literature: Illustrated in Arfken, Leggett, Firby, Steinhart "Canada's Pence Era - The Pence Stamps and the Canadian Mail 1851-1859" handbook on page 115 (Figure 91).

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 11,The famous UNIQUE mint block - the largest surviving mint multiple of this rarity, extremely well centered and displaying exceptionally rich colour on bright fresh paper, barely discernible flaw at top right, some slightly trimmed perfs but essentially intact all around. Possessing remarkably fresh and clean, FULL ORIGINAL GUM, very lightly hinged, bottom left stamp NEVER HINGED. A superb showpiece of the highest order, that was fittingly described by Charles Firby at the Sam Nickle sale as "one of the stars of the collection", Very Fine (Unitrade cat. $60,000 as mint singles)

Interestingly enough, the lower left stamp shows the Major Re-entry from Position 34 in the plate of 100 subjects, with characteristic marks in lettering of "CANADA", above "CAN" of "CANADA", in "P" of "POSTAGE" among others.

Provenance: General Robert Gill, Robson Lowe Ltd., October 1965; Lot 55.

E. Carey Fox, First Portion, H.R. Harmer, Inc., May 1968; Lot 370.

Clare M. Jephcott, Maresch Private Treaty (first catalogue, 1977), item 62.

Sam Nickle Pence Issue Collection, Firby Auctions, October 1988; Lot 424 - sold then for an impressive US$16,000 hammer.

Literature: Illustrated in Robson Lowe "The Encyclopedia of British Empire Postage Stamps Volume V - British North America" on the colour plate facing page 160.

Illustrated in Capex '96 Gems of Canadian Philately on page 33.

Illustrated in Arfken, Leggett, Firby, Steinhart "Canada's Pence Era - The Pence Stamps and the Canadian Mail 1851-1859" handbook on page 96 (Figure 72).

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 1859 (April 25) Flimsy brown envelope mailed from Montreal to Halifax, Nova Scotia, with a very rare multiple franking consisting of a HORIZONTAL STRIP OF SIX of the Half penny rose, perf 11¾, tied by four-ring '21' cancels, clear double arc dispatch at left; horizontal cover fold at foot and light wrinkles away from the incredible strip. A one-of-a-kind franking & rate combination, paying the three-pence letter rate to Nova Scotia. A wonderful showpiece, F-VF (Unitrade 11)

Provenance: Dale-Lichtenstein, Sale 10 - Canada, H.R. Harmer Inc., December 1970; Lot 313 - sold then for an impressive US$3,400 hammer.

Sam Nickle, Christie's Robson Lowe, March 1993; Lot 144

Census: Wayne Smith Pence 1851-1859 issue cover census records only one cover bearing six examples of the perforated Half penny. We believe it is this cover, paying a noticeably scarcer, interprovincial letter rate to Nova Scotia.

THE ONLY KNOWN MULTIPLE HALF PENNY FRANKING TO NOVA SCOTIA.

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 14,A superb "Goodall" die proof in bluish green on india paper 24 x 32mm die sunk on card 35 x 40mm, showing crossed guidelines surrounding design as found on all One cent "Goodalls"s, minor mounting mark at left. An exceptional proof with great eye-appeal, rare, VF (Minuse & Pratt 14TC2g)

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 14P,A fresh plate proof block of six on india paper, displays the full ABNC imprint in top margin, choice, VF (Unitrade cat. as proof singles)

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 14TCii + variety & specimen,An impressive trial colour plate proof block in orange yellow on india paper, unusual SPECIMEN (11.5 x 2.5mm) handstamp overprint in dark red, applied horizontally on lower right stamp, the only reported example, most attractive, VF (Minuse & Pratt 14TC3S-Chb)

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

Remarkably enough, the upper left proof clearly shows the "Q" plate flaw (Position 38; Whitworth Flaw 1a), the early stage of this well-documented flaw, the most prominent and sought-after as such. The flaw first appeared in 1864 and was retouched over the next 4 years, becoming weaker as a result (Whitworth Flaw 1b & 1c).

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 14,A post office fresh mint block, bright colour on fresh paper, intact perforations all around, remarkably full original gum, lightly hinged on top pair leaving bottom pair NEVER HINGED. A lovely mint block, Fine+ centering

Provenance: Maresch Private Treaty (third catalogue 1983), item 136

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 14b,An unusually nice mint example of an early printing, well centered, remarkably fresh and still retaining full original gum, very lightly hinged once at top. A great stamp in all respects, superior to most we have seen, VF+

Expertization: 1987 Greene Foundation certificate (identified as old CS number #12)

Provenance: Arthur Groten Collection of the 1859 Decimal Issue, Maresch Sale 133, September 1981; Lot 36.

The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 14ix,A remarkable unused single clearly showing a HORIZONTAL STITCH WATERMARK variety (without the need of the watermark fluid), quite well centered with bright fresh colour. Very rare unused and no doubt one of the finest extant, VF (Unitrade cat. as fine centering only)

Provenance: The "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 1860 (May 11) Unsealed folded cover endorsed "Circular", franked with single 1c deep rose, perf 11¾, tied by light, mostly legible Hamilton MY 10 60 split ring duplex - believed to be the Earliest Recorded Date of the Berri type duplex cancellation; paying an elusive One cent circular rate to Saint John, New Brunswick, docketing by the receiver "Hamilton C.W. 10 May 1860" on reverse. A significant item for the specialist, F-VF (Unitrade 14b)

Provenance: Guilford Collection, Siegel, September 1994; Lot 2174.

Ed Richardson, Firby Auctions, November 1991; Lot 580.

Census: Of the 10 recorded One cent circular rate items recorded in Firby census, this is the earliest recorded usage to New Brunswick.

Literature: Robert Lee "Catalogue of Canadian Duplex Cancellations" (Second Edition, 1993), do state "1860/05/14 ERD of any Cdn. duplex"

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 1861 (July 29) Yellow cover bearing a well centered strip of three and two single 1c deep rose, perf 11¾, tied by light four-ring numeral cancels (should be '50'), partly legible Windsor double arc dispatch, pays the 5 cent domestic letter rate to Goderich; Paris D.P.O. JY 30 splint ring transit and Goderich JUL 30 1861 arrival backstamps, tear to backflap in no way detracts from its striking appeal, F-VF (Unitrade 14b)

Provenance: Norman Brassler, Maresch Sale 244, October 1990; Lot 91

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 1862 (August 8) Military Concessionary Rate, clean orange cover endorsed "From 2nd Class Army Schoolmaster, Chambers 2nd Bat. Sco. Fus. Gds", countersigned by the commanding officer, franked with a quite well centered pair of 1c deep rose, perf 11¾, tied by Montreal duplex, mailed to Bray, Ireland at the 2 cent Soldiers' letter rate, neat Bray AU 21 62 arrival CDS attractively struck on front, minor edge tears at top from opening. One of the nicest and cleanest existing 2c Soldiers' Letter Rate covers mailed during the Decimal Era, VF+ (Unitrade 14b)

Provenance: Henry Lubke Jr. (First Portion), Maresch Sale 264, June 1992; Lot 471.

Census: This is cover No. 8 listed in Arfken & Leggett "Canada's Decimal Era 1859-1868" handbook on Table 1: Soldier's Letters to the U.K., page 187

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT A spectacular renewal application of a Fire Insurance, multi-page printed folded circular in an excellent state of preservation, franked with a single 1c rose, perf 12x11¾, tied by mostly clear July 1863 St. Catherines duplex to St. David's. Certainly one of the most attractive and visually striking Cents issue circulars one can hope to find, VF (Unitrade 14viii)

Provenance: Gerald Wellburn, Robson Lowe (Toronto), November 1983; Lot 34.

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT Undated W. Notman Photographer, Montreal, bluish green card stock advertising wrapper (originally containing photographs) mailed from Montreal to Peterboro, C.W. bearing single 1c rose, perf 12, minor toning mainly surrounding perfs, tied by light grid; paying one cent printed matter rate, very attractive, VF (Unitrade 14) ex. Fred Goodhelpsen collection (private sale late 1970s)

HALF PENNY AND ONE CENT 1868 (August 14) The Gazette and Evening Telegraph Business Department yellow envelope, bearing a single 1c rose, perf 12, neatly tied by Montreal duplex, paying a local drop letter rate, minor cover wrinkling away from stamp. A very scarce usage, four months after Large Queen stamps were officially issued on April 1st; only about a half dozen single usages of the One cent rose, paying any postal rate, are known mailed during Large Queen period, VF and appealing (Unitrade 14)

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 9,Engraved "Goodall" Die proof of the Chalon portrait and lettering, surrounded by cross-hatched lines, printed in orange red on india paper 25 x 28mm sunk on card 32 x 39mm. An exceptional proof in choice condition, VF+; a very small number exist in this colour. (Minuse & Pratt 9Eb)

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Pence & Cents Issue (private treaty circa. 1997)

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 9,Engraved "Goodall" Die Essay of the Chalon portrait and lettering, surrounded by cross-hatched lines, printed in dull greenish blue on india paper 22 x 32mm, sunk on card 32 x 40mm, trace of foxing. A very rarely seen coloured Die Essay of great appeal, VF (Minuse & Pratt 9Eb)

Provenance: G.W. Dent Essays and Proofs Collection, Phillips Auctions, April 2001; Lot 250

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 9TCi + variety,A superb trial colour plate proof block of six, printed in black on india paper with vertical SPECIMEN overprint in carmine and showing a complete Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Edson, New York imprint in the left margin. A very scarce multiple in pristine condition, XF (Unitrade cat. as singles)

The plate imprint facing left of Position 25 and as documented on R. Trimble website, was noticeably re-entered, resulting in doubling of many of the letters.

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 9TCiii + variety,A fabulous trial colour plate proof block of six printed in orange yellow on india paper, showing complete Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Edson, New York imprint in left margin. A very rare block in exceptionally fresh, pristine condition, XF (Unitrade cat. as singles)

The plate imprint is noticeably re-entered, resulting in doubling of many of the letters, as documented on Ralph Trimble website as imprint left of Position 25.

Provenance: Henry Gates (Part 1), Maresch Sale 124, March 1981; Lot 401.

The "Lindemann" Collection - Pence & Cents Issue (private treaty circa. 1997).

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 9P,Plate proof block in near issued colour on india paper, showing complete Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Edson, New York imprint in top margin; an appealing and choice plate imprint block, VF (Unitrade cat. as singles)

Provenance: "Scenic" (Sam Nickle) Essays & Proofs Collection, Robson Lowe, Zurich, November 1982; Lot 2013.

Henry Gates (Part 1), Maresch Sale 124, March 1981; Lot 396.

The "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 9TCii,Trial colour plate proof printed in black on india paper with diagonal SPECIMEN overprint in carmine, ample margins and clear deep impression; a most challenging proof to find, F-VF ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 9,"One of the most exceptional pieces in the collection" - Lars Amundsen sale (1967)

The famous "Amundsen" plate imprint pair, fresh mint with tremendous eye-appeal, displaying bold rich colour on fresh paper, irregular but clear margin at right and ample to large margins on other sides including full sheet margin at top showing a complete Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Edson, New York plate imprint, minor corner crease at lower right, remarkably possessing full brown original gum with only a trace of hinging. A glorious pair of the utmost rarity, VF

Expertization: 1959 RPS of London certificate

Provenance: Edward Tresoldi Granger, H.R. Harmer, Inc., London, October 1958; Lot 78 - realized £2,000 hammer, which tied with a superb used 12p black for the second highest realization in this important British North America 437 lot auction.

Lars Amundsen Classic British Empire, SG Auctions, London, December 1967; Lot 118 - brought £3,000 hammer; interestingly enough a British Columbia 5c rose imperforate superb mint OG also realized £3,000.

Guilford Collection of Canada Pence Issues, Siegel, September 1994; Lot 2128.

The "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Pence & Cents Issue (private treaty, circa. 1997).

Literature: Illustrated in Arfken, Leggett, Firby & Steinhart, "Canada's Pence Era - The Pence Stamps and the Canadian Mail 1851-1859" on pages 77-78 (Figure 57).

Census: We are aware of five mint multiples of the Seven and One-Half penny stamp

1) Vertical mint pair with small portion of imprint, ex. Pack, Amos Eno, Lilly, Gross

2) Horizontal mint pair with sheet margin at top, gum creasing; ex. Robert Gill, Duane Hilmer

3) Horizontal mint pair with full plate imprint in top sheet margin, offered here

4) Horizontal mint pair with sheet margin at left, tiny portion of imprint; ex. Burrus, Carey Fox, Foxbridge, Weill Brothers

5) Mint block of four, ex. Gill, Carey Fox, Hilmer, Foxbridge, Weill Brothers

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 18,"Goodall" Die Proof engraved in brownish red on india paper 23 x 28mm die sunk on card 36 x 41mm blue on india paper, superb in all respects, XF and rare (Minuse & Pratt 18TC2g)

Provenance: Dale-Lichtenstein, Sale 10 - Canada, H.R. Harmer, Inc., December 1970; Lot 438.

Henry Hussey, Sissons Sale 329, November 1973; Lot 144.

Arthur Groten, Maresch Sale 133, September 1981; Lot 380.

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 18Pi,Plate proof block in issued colour on card mounted india paper with vertical SPECIMEN overprint in carmine, sheet margin at right, VF and choice

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 18Pii,Plate proof block in issued colour on india paper with vertical SPECIMEN overprint in black, sheet margin at top, choice, VF

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 18TCix,A superb trial colour plate proof pair in black on india paper, exceptionally choice with very sharp impression and elusive in a pair, XF; ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 18TCi,Trial colour plate proof pair in blue on india paper, fresh and not often seen in a multiple, VF

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 18TCiii,Trial colour plate proof in dark blue on india paper, with vertical SPECIMEN (Type B) thick letter overprint; of the sole specimen overprint sheet in blue, only 40 received the Type B overprint, VF; ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 18TCviii,Trial colour plate proof pair in orange yellow on india paper, brilliant fresh and VF; ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 18b,An impressive mint block with sheet margin at top and very large margins on other sides, not often seen as such, small portion of plate imprint visible at top left; sealed diagonal tear on top left stamp ending in margin between pairs, still of Very Fine appearance and more importantly possessing FULL ORIGINAL GUM, which is very rarely encountered on any Cents issue imperforates.

Valuation: The premium of 150% for original gum on the 1859-1868 Decimal issues has not been factored in the catalogue value.

Provenance: Dale-Lichtenstein, Sale 2 - B.N.A. Part One, November 1968; Lot 395

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 18a,A phenomenal mint lower left corner margin strip of three, remarkably well centered, fabulous bright colour on fresh paper, displaying a nearly complete ABNC imprint below stamp Pos. 93 as well as a pre-perforation paper fold resulting in "zig-zag" perforations in the margin, a couple shorter perfs at top left, inconsequential for this important imprint multiple, unusually large part original gum, left stamp NEVER HINGED. A glorious positional multiple of high caliber; Extremely Fine

Provenance: B.K. Denton, Sissons Sale 357, January 1976; Lot 812.

Arthur Groten, Maresch Sale 133, September 1981; Lot 401.

The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 1861 (November 11) Large parcel post wrapper mailed from London, C.W. to Toronto, bearing two horizontal pairs of 12½c dark green, perf 11¾ tied by London duplex, light Toronto NO 12 receiver backstamp. This is the only known example of a double 25 cent parcel post rate (for two pound parcel), Fine and impressive. (Unitrade 18ii early printing)

Provenance: Henry Lubke Jr. Third Portion, Maresch Sale 272, December 1992; Lot 550.

Carnegie Institute, Siegel, May 1981; Lot 78.

Chapman, Sissons Sale 19, February 1947; Lot 1227.

Literature: In Arfken & Leggett, "Canada's Decimal Era 1859-1868" handbook, mentions on page 51: "Only one example of a two pound rate was recorded. The 50¢ postage on that wrapping was paid with four 12½¢ Decimals."

Census: Only five Decimal franked parcel post items are recorded in Arfken & Leggett handbook, page 52, Table 1. This is the only known at the 50 cent rate (two pound parcel).

SEVEN AND ONE HALF PENCE AND TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS 1866 (May 14) Small complete envelope of great appeal, mailed to Amoy, China, bearing a single 10c dull purple (tear likely caused from affixing to cover) and two 12½c dark yellow green, lightly cancelled, partly legible Wardsville MAY 14 1866 large circular datestamp at left, neat London Paid 30 MY 66 circular transit in red with same-ink large "1d" along with red crayon "1/-" rates; on reverse Hamilton MY 15 1866 and Hong Kong JY 21 66 CDS transit backstamps. Paying the then current 35 cent rate (per half ounce, effective until 1870) to China. A well-travelled cover via the United Kingdom on both Canadian Packet and Peninsular and Oriental Packet, of which no less than six route stages were required for this cover to be delivered, F-VF (Unitrade 17, 18)

Provenance: Gerald Wellburn, Robson Lowe (Toronto), November 1983; Lot 173

A VERY SCARCE DECIMAL COVER TO CHINA WHICH TOOK MORE THAN TEN WEEKS TO BE DELIVERED. ACCORDING TO FIRBY CENSUS, ONLY SIX COVERS ARE FRANKED WITH SUCH FRANKING TO CHINA.

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS An exceptional Engraved Trade Sample Proof sheet printed in GOLDEN BROWN on card mounted india paper, displaying nineteen different stamps: Province of Canada 1857 Half pence and 1855 Ten pence, Federal Bill Revenue 1865 Ten cent; New Brunswick 1860 Twelve and One Half cent; Newfoundland 1865 Two cent, Five cent, Ten cent, Twelve cent and Thirteen cent; Nova Scotia 1860-1863 One cent and Eight & One Half cents; plus seven different from Latin American countries. A rarely offered intact sheet, inconsequential marginal edge crease at right, still in a remarkable state of preservation with superb colour and bright sharp impressions. Outstanding in all respects, Very Fine (Minuse & Pratt PB-A)

Provenance: Henry Gates (Part 1), Maresch Sale 124, March 1981; Lot 328.

A FABULOUS AMERICAN BANK NOTE COMPANY TRADE SAMPLE PROOF SHEET. ON THE SHORT-LIST OF THE MOST ATTRACTIVE AND DESIRABLE PROOFS IN ALL OF BRITISH NORTH AMERICAN PHILATELY. AMONG THE VERY BEST OF THE SMALL NUMBER THAT STILL EXIST INTACT.

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 7P & 8P,An extraordinary American Bank Note Company se-tenant pair of engraved Trade Sample Proofs originating from the trade sample sheet. Printed in a visually striking bright pinkish rose colour on white bond paper (0.003" thick). In immaculate condition, exceptionally fresh and superb in all respects, XF; rarely offered as an intact pair. (Minuse & Pratt PB-Ac)

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Pence & Cents Issue (private treaty circa. 1997).

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 7,American Bank Note Company trade sample proof, engraved, printed in deep emerald green on gummed, soft white wove paper with vertical mesh (0.0040" thick), most unusual and very scarce, VF OG

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 7,American Bank Note Company trade sample proof, engraved, printed in black on white wove paper with vertical mesh (0.0035" thick), two light pen lines in blue, striking and very rare, VF

Provenance: Henry Gates (Part 1), Maresch Sale 124, March 1981; Lot 342.

The "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 7,American Bank Note Company trade sample proof, engraved, printed in yellow on gummed deep blue wove paper, perforated on three sides. Dazzling combination of coloured ink and paper and perhaps unique, VF OG

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 7TC,Trial colour plate proof block printed in black on india paper, Positions 61-62 / 73-74 in the sheet of 120 subjects, light wrinkling mostly confined to left margin. A very scarce block, VF

Position 74 (lower right proof) shows a prominent Short Transfer variety at top right and a strong dotted horizontal guideline at centre extending into side margins and stamp at left.

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 7TCi,Trial colour plate proof in black on india paper, vertical SPECIMEN overprint in carmine, small tear at top left, seldom seen, VF (Unitrade 7TCi)

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 7TCii,Trial colour plate proof in black on india paper, diagonal SPECIMEN overprint in carmine, very large margins; an elusive proof often missing even in advanced collections, VF; ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 7P shade,Vertical plate proof pair on india paper displaying incredibly deep colour - the deepest shade we recall seeing on a plate proof - closely resembling the shade found on the issued stamp on thick opaque wove paper. Very appealing and XF (Unitrade cat. as two normal proofs) ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 7,An attractive corner margin plate proof block (Positions 97-98 / 109-110), printed in a bright shade with lovely clear impression on india paper, VF; ex. Henry Gates (Part 1, March 1981; Lot 315)

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 7Pi + variety,Plate proof block in issued colour on india paper, vertical SPECIMEN overprint in carmine, showing Strong Re-entry on lower right proof (Position 52 in sheet of 120 subjects) with strong doubling in many of the letters, ovals and corner numerals, VF; ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 7TCiii,Trial colour plate proof block of six printed in orange yellow on india paper, one of the largest surviving proof blocks of this scarce proof, VF

Provenance: G.W. Dent Essays and Proofs Collection, Phillips, April 2001; Lot 261

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 7ii,An unusually choice used example of this notoriously difficult classic stamp, remarkably showing the most sought-after plate variety - The Major Re-entry (Position 29) with very strong doubling in "CANADA", "TEN PENCE", as well as in the white ovals along with other traits unmistakable to this particular variety, clear at top right to very large margins and devoid of the usual flaws so prevalent on this paper,well struck concentric rings cancel. A wonderful example of this Major Re-entry; it would be a major challenge to locate even a remotely similar quality example, VF

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 19,"Goodall" Die Proof, engraved, printed in greenish blue on india paper 22 x 29mm die sunk on card 28 x 36mm; an impressive die proof in choice condition, VF (Minuse & Pratt 19TC2g)

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 19,Engraved Trial Colour Die Proof in brown, stamp size on india paper affixed to slightly larger card. Only three such proofs are recorded on Glen Lundeen's "BNA Proofs" listing, unrecorded in Minuse Pratt, F-VF

Provenance: Gerald Wellburn, Robson Lowe (Toronto), November 1983; Lot 6
The "Midland" Collection of Canada, Firby Auctions, January 2004; Lot 86

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 19TCi,Trial colour plate proof in black on india paper, exceptionally deep rich colour with sharp impression, VF+; ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 19TCii,Trial colour plate proof block in orange yellow on card mounted india paper, sheet margin at left, rich colour and visually striking; very scarce as a block, F-VF

Upper left stamp (Position 41) shows Re-entry with doubling of inner frame at top right near and above "8".

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 19b, iii,A spectacular mint block, displaying the bright shade associated with this scarce imperforate, top left stamp shows the well-documented and sought-after "Burr over Shoulder" plate variety (Position 7), barely touching outer frame at left to ample margins all around, completely sound and remarkably possessing FULL ORIGINAL GUM, minor natural short gumming spots; pencil signed by expert Herbert Bloch. A very impressive, one-of-a-kind imperforate block with this important plate variety, F-VF OG / LH (Unitrade 19b, iii)

Valuation: A premium of 150% for original gum is given on the 1859-1868 Decimal issues. This block graded Fine to Very Fine OG without the plate variety would command a catalogue value of $35,000.

Literature: Illustrated in Capex '96 Gems of Canadian Philately book on page 46.

TEN PENCE AND SEVENTEEN CENTS 19,A quite well centered mint single with large margins, printed in a remarkably deep shade on fresh paper, intact perforations clear of design on three sides; an attractive stamp, F-VF

TWO CENTS 20,A superb "Goodall" Die Proof, engraved, printed in bluish green on india paper 21 x 29mm die sunk on card 39 x 45mm, exceptional and rarely offered, XF (Minuse & Pratt 20TC2g)

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

TWO CENTS 20,"Goodall" Die Proof, engraved, printed in greenish blue on india paper 24 x 31mm die sunk on card 35 x 46mm. A beautiful die proof in immaculately fresh condition, rarely seen and XF (Minuse & Pratt 20TC2g)

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997).

TWO CENTS 20TC + unlisted proof,Plate proof in near issued colour with ABNC imprint at right, on india paper with horizontal "PROOF" (7.5 x 2.5mm) handstamped overprint in blue, mounting stain and small flaws at top. We were only able to locate one other similar proof (ex. Groten Collection, 1981), Fine (Unitrade 20TC + unlisted overprint; Minuse & Pratt 20P3S-Phb)

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

TWO CENTS 20TC + unlisted specimen,A choice plate proof pair in near issued colour on india paper, each with unusual serifed "SPECIMEN." (18.5 x 2.5mm) handstamped overprint in dark orange red. This Minuse & Pratt listed specimen is the first we recall offering, VF (Minuse & Pratt 20P3S-K)

Provenance: The "Lindemann" Collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

TWO CENTS 20b,A selected imperforate block of four, surrounded by remarkably large margins for this imperforate, printed in the characteristic deeper shade on wove paper; possessing large part original gum which is unusual as most existing examples are without gum. A wonderful block with superior traits, rarely seen thus, VF+ OG

Expertization: 1986 Greene Foundation certificate (identified as old CS number #13)

TWO CENTS 20, iii, v,A superior mint block of the first printing with sheet margin at right, very well centered with exceptionally fresh colour, large part original gum disturbed. Without question, one of the choicest mint blocks that exists; especially desirable being from the First Printing, VF+ OG

Upper left stamp shows extension of vertical frameline variety at lower left; right pair with dash in lower right "2" variety.

TWO CENTS 20a,A well centered unused example with rich colour, scarce, VF

TWO CENTS 1867 (December 14) Blue folded pre-printed circular from Provincial Secretary at Québec to St. Michel de Bellechasse, bearing a very scarce single-franking of the 2c claret rose, perf 12 tied by large circular mute grid cancel, Quebec DE 14 67 split ring dispatch; paying a very scarce double weight (up to two ounces) printed matter rate, VF (Unitrade 20i)

According to Firby census "A Summary of Covers Recorded", only 6 covers have been recorded paying this rate with a single 2 cent stamp.

TWO CENTS 1865 (January 28) Official cover front mailed with free franking privilege, instructional marking "FREE" and "REGISTERED" handstamps, initially deemed UNPAID 7 in error which was then obliterated with two strikes of four-ring '19' cancel of London, registration fee paid with a single 2c carmine red, perf 12x11¾, tied by London duplex, cover crease at centre. A spectacular and very rarely seen rate & franking combination, Fine+ (Unitrade 20)

Provenance: Henry Lubke Jr. (Second Portion), Maresch Sale 268, October 1992; Lot 590.

Bill Lea Exhibit Collection of Canada Pence & Cents Postal History (private sale).

The "Lindemann" Collection - Pence & Cents Issue (private treaty circa. 1997).

Census: Firby "A Summary of Covers Recorded for Canada 1859 Issue Stamps", only three 2c Free Registered covers (bearing the 2c stamp) have been recorded.

TWO CENTS F1,Die Essay printed in black on vermilion glazed-surface coloured paper 75 x 29mm; scissor separated between stamp and label and rejoined. According to Horace Harrison these rare registered essays were likely prepared by John Ellis & Co. (circa. 1865). Believed to be one of only three that have survived, VF appearance (Minuse & Pratt E-C, page 71)

Provenance: Dr. Lewis L. Reford Collection of British North America, Part Five, Harmer, Rooke & Co., October 1951; Lot 1001.

Sam Nickle, Christie's Robson Lowe, March 1993; Lot 817.

TWO CENTS F1,Plate Essay printed in black on vermilion glazed-surface coloured paper 65 x 22mm, rouletted on three sides, numbered "80" on both stamp and label, ungummed. According to Horace Harrison this so-called "Final Form" of the registered essays was probably prepared by John Ellis & Co. of Toronto. Fewer than six examples exist, VF (Minuse & Pratt E-B, page 71)

Provenance: Harry Lussey, R. Lee Auctions No. 94, May 1999; Lot 2.

BRADBURY WILKINSON ESSAYS A choice, bright fresh, engraved plate essay printed in green on white bond paper (0.004" thick), XF; 1989 Greene Foundation cert.

BRADBURY WILKINSON ESSAYS Right margin engraved plate essay printed in brown on white bond paper (0.004" thick), slight bend, VF; ex. Sam Nickle (October 1998; Lot 1)

BRADBURY WILKINSON ESSAYS A fabulous lot of eight engraved plate essays on white bond (hard or soft) paper (about 0.004" thick), printed in violet brown, green, blue, brown, dark purple, maroon and orange red, also the scarcer black on thick card (0.008" thick). Seldom seen as a group, very attractive and VF

BRADBURY WILKINSON ESSAYS A very attractive lot of five engraved Plate Essays on white wove paper (0.004" thick) in green, brown, blue and violet; plus another in black on yellowish card (0.0085" thick), VF

Expertization: 6p green with 1989 Greene Foundation cert.

Provenance: 6p blue from Sam Nickle sale (October 1988; Lot 9).

ADMIRAL PROOFS An extraordinary Engraved Progressive Proof - THE MASTER DIE - measuring 17.75 x 18mm and printed in dark greyish brown on india paper 20.5 x 23mm, displaying the completed central vignette and surrounding frame but without boxed numerals and denomination tablet at foot; vertical broken crease at right and gummed slightly penetrating the paper, immaterial for this exceedingly rare item, which is to the best of our knowledge, the only one extant in private hands. In our opinion, the most important of all Admiral issue proofs, Fine

A similar Master Die Proof currently resides permanently at Library and Archives Canada, as noted in George Marler's "The Admiral Issue of Canada" handbook, Figure 1.1, pages 20-21, reads: "... it is the upper part of the design that was considered to be common to all of the seven values and accordingly, it followed that it was necessary to engrave by hand on the die of each denomination:

i) the stems of the leaves;
ii) the numerals and numeral boxes;
iii) the words showing the denomination;
iv) the horizontal and diagonal lines of shading, etc.
v) the remainder of the frame.
It is among these elements of the design that minor differences between one denomination and another are to be found."

AN INCREDIBLE MASTER DIE PROOF, UTILIZED BY THE ENGRAVER FOR ALL ADMIRAL ISSUE DENOMINATIONS THAT WERE PRODUCED OVER ITS LONG LIFESPAN.

ADMIRAL PROOFS 104-122,The outstanding Alfred Lichtenstein set of thirteen Large Die Proofs in black, printed directly to card (0.010-0.011" thick) and measuring between 52-76 x 57-79mm, each with respective die number above or below design, the seven original dies also with American Bank Note Co. Ottawa imprint (23.5mm long). All issued denominations, including both dies of the One cent and Three cent, are present. Exceptional in all respects and very rare as only two other such sets can exist, VF-XF (Minuse & Pratt 104TC1-122TCb)

Provenance: Alfred Lichtenstein Collection of Canada issued from 1897 Jubilee, H.R. Harmer, Inc., November 1954; Lots 270/283
Clare M. Jephcott, Maresch Sale 241, June 1990; Lots 618/919

The unissued 6 cent value and the four War Tax die proofs are offered separately in the next two lots.

AN EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY TO ACQUIRE A COMPLETE SET OF THESE RARELY OFFERED DIE PROOFS. THEY WERE PREVIOUSLY SOLD INDIVIDUALLY IN BOTH THE LICHTENSTEIN (1954) AND JEPHCOTT (1990) SALES .

ADMIRAL PROOFS Large Die Essay, prepared but never issued, printed in black directly to card (0.0085" thick) measuring 61 x 61mm; nearly full sinkage and showing die number "OG-421" at top and engraver's guideline at right. Superb in all respects, highly desirable and very rarely offered, XF (Minuse & Pratt E-1)

Provenance: Alfred Lichtenstein Collection of Canada issued from 1897 Jubilee, H.R. Harmer, Inc., November 1954; Lot 277
Clare M. Jephcott (private sale circa. 1980s)

ADMIRAL PROOFS MR1-MR2, MR3, MR3a,The set of four Large Trial Colour Die Proofs, engraved, printed in black directly to card (0.0085" thick), measuring 52-59 x 58-69mm, each with die number above or below design, the 2c+1c Die II additionally shows the ABNC imprint (23.5mm long). A fabulous and very rare set of War Tax die proofs - the first occasion we recall offering these together as one lot, XF (Minuse & Pratt MR1TC1-MR4TC1b)

Provenance: Unknown provenance, Maresch Sale 122, December 1980; Lots 880-883

A MERE TWO OR THREE OF EACH HAVE BEEN RECORDED.

ADMIRAL PROOFS 106,Trial Colour Die Proof in black on india paper 53 x 38mm; a very rare and striking proof, VF

Of note are distinctive, engraved lines visible at the lower left corner of the proof.

ADMIRAL PROOFS 106,Large Die Proof in the colour of issue on india paper 60 x 60mm, die sunk on larger card 77 x 77mm, couple light foxing spots; the hardened die with number "F-211" and ABNC imprint (23.5mm long) below design. A very scarce proof, VF

ADMIRAL PROOFS 107,A superb Die Proof printed in green, the revised colour, on india paper 55 x 59mm, die sunk on larger card 74 x 76mm; showing die number "F-211" and ABNC imprint (23.5mm long) below design. A very attractive proof in pristine condition, XF

ADMIRAL PROOFS 111,An exceptional Large Trial Colour Die Proof printed in dark green on india paper 63 x 63mm, die sunk on larger card 80 x 77mm; showing die number "F-213" and ABNC imprint (23.5mm long). A fabulous one-of-a-kind, visually striking coloured proof in pristine condition, XF, UNIQUE (Unlisted in Minuse & Pratt)

ADMIRAL PROOFS 113,Large Trial Colour Die Proof in dark purple on india paper 63 x 63mm, die sunk on larger card measuring 78 x 89mm; showing die number "F-214" and ABNC imprint 64 x 63mm, archival adhesive marks on reverse. Believed to be the only existing die proof in this colour - no other Seven cent proof come close to this colour, VF and attractive. (Minuse & Pratt 113TC1c) ex. Stan Lum (September 2013; Lot 870)

ADMIRAL PROOFS 116,Large Trial Colour Die Proof in dark purple on india paper 63 x 62mm die sunk on slightly larger card measuring 75 x 75mm; showing die number "F-218" and ABNC imprint (23.5mm) below design. A beautiful coloured proof in immaculate condition, very seldom seen, XF (Unitrade 116)

ADMIRAL PROOFS 120,An extraordinary Large Trial Colour Die Proof printed in dark blue grey on india paper 63 x 74mm, die sunk on large card 110 x 119mm; the unhardened die without die number or imprint. Exceptional in all respects, a rarity of the Admiral issue, XF and ideal for a serious collection.

Provenance: Ed Richardson, Maresch Sale 101, April 1978; Lot 274

ADMIRAL PROOFS MR3,Composite Essay of an unused 2c carmine affixed to archival card 63 x 66mm, two-line black "WAR TAX / 1¢" added in printing ink by the designer, not approved and quite likely UNIQUE, a great showpiece, VF; ex. "Scenic" (Sam Nickle) Collection of Proofs & Essays (November 1982; Lot 2317) (Unlisted in Minuse & Pratt)

ADMIRAL PROOFS MR3,Composite Essay of an unused 2c rose red affixed to archival card 92 x 78mm, outlined in red ink and Chinese white paint "1T¢" above "TWO CENTS". This model was sent for consideration, approved and initialed. Another great showpiece, VF (Unlisted in Minuse & Pratt handbook)

A similar composite die essay is pictured in George Marler "The Admiral Issue of Canada" handbook on page 434 (figure WT3.2).

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104b,Lower right Plate 4 strip of twenty with printing order number "83", radiant colour and unusually well centered for a large multiple, small thin on second stamp in lower row, hinged on bottom left and top centre pairs leaving sixteen NH. A remarkable early plate block, VF (Unitrade cat. $3,120)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104b,A remarkably fresh, well centered lower right Plate 9 strip of ten with printing order number "100", tiny adhesion spot on right stamp, fabulous colour, VF NH (Unitrade cat. $1,800)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104b,Lower left Plate 12 strip of twenty in a deeper shade, with printing order number "110", exceptionally rich colour and sharp impression on fresh paper, quite well centered for such a large multiple, small thin on top right stamp; penciled "Spt 13 / 12" date of acquisition. A fabulous plate block, VF NH (Unitrade cat. $3,480)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104b,Upper right Plate 29 strip of ten with printing order number "131", rich colour and very well centered as a strip, LH in selvedge only, stamps VF NH (Unitrade cat. $1,800)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104c,Lower right Plate 47 strip of ten with amazing deep colour and post office fresh. A very scarce early shade plate multiple in choice condition, F-VF NH (Unitrade cat. $2,800)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104b, shade,Matching lower margin strips of ten with consecutive plate numbers - Plate 54 strip in a deeper shade, well centered and VF NH; Plate 55 bright blue green, left stamp hinged, others Fine NH; Plate 56 in similar shade but showing "hairlines" mostly in lower margin, right stamp hinged with light crease, seven stamps NH, F-VF; last two with initial printing order number "146" etched out and replaced with "157". A rare and very appealing trio. (Unitrade cat. $2,932)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104b,Upper right Plate 61 strip of ten with printing order number "157" in choice condition, lovely rich colour, well centered, LH in selvedge only, stamps VF NH; penciled "Oct 23 ' 13" date of acquisition. (Unitrade cat. $1,800)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104,Matching upper right Plates 75 & 76 strips of ten with printing order number "194", both equally well centered with rich colour on bright fresh paper, LH in top selvedge, leaving stamps NH; a very attractive duo, penciled on same day "18 May ' 14" date of acquisition, VF. (Unitrade cat. $2,400)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104,Three strips of ten with consecutive plate numbers, all unusually well centered; LL Plate 97 right stamp LH, others NH; UR Plate 98 with some split perfs mostly strengthened in the selvedge, six NH; LR Plate 99 left stamp LH, others NH, VF (Unitrade cat. $3,120)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104,An impressive group of four strips of ten with consecutive plate numbers: UL Plate 109, LH in selvedge only, stamps NH; LR Plate 110 seven stamps NH; and UL Plates 111 and 112 LH in selvedge only, stamps NH; last two with original printing order number "312" etched out and new number "365" added. Plates 110 and 111 are F-VF and Plates 109 and 112 are VF centered. (Unitrade cat. $3,700)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104,An appealing group of four strips of ten with consecutive plate numbers: UL Plate 121, UR Plate 122 and LL Plates 123 and 124. First two well centered, hinge support in selvedge, all stamps NH; other two reasonably centered with seven and five NH respectively, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $3,440)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104e,Four fresh strips of ten with consecutive plate numbers: UR Plate 131, UR Plate 132, UL Plate 133 (no left side selvedge), UR Plate 134; first two strips well centered. All four hinged in selvedge only leaving all stamps NH, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $3,800)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104, 104e,A brilliant fresh group of plate strips of ten with consecutive numbers: UR Plate 141 (no right-side selvedge), UL Plates 142, 143 and 144; first two well centered, other two fine. Plate 141 strip is VLH on two stamps; Plate 142 LH in selvedge, stamps NH; Plates 143 and 144 both reinforced between fourth and fifth stamps leaving eight NH, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $2,600)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104, 104e,Four brilliant fresh matching upper left plate strips of ten with consecutive plate numbers 145 to 148; all with nearly VF centering and hinged in selvedge only leaving all stamps NH; the first two in the yellow green shade and Plate 147 & 148 in green; each with penciled date of acquisition, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $2,800)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104, 104e,Four attractive, consecutive plate strips of ten, LH in margin only leaving all stamps NH: UL Plate 149, VF, UL Plate 150, F-VF natural gum bends, UR Plate 151 & Plate 152 both Fine; Plates 149 & 150 in green shade and Plates 151 & 152 in yellow green; each with pencil date of acquisition. (Unitrade cat. $2,300)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 104ii,Four plate strips of ten with consecutive plate numbers - the last plates used for this stamp: UL Plate 167, F-VF, 168, F-VF, 169, Fine and UR Plate 170, VF. First two strips LH in selvedge only; Plate 169 reinforced split perfs between fifth and sixth stamps, eight stamps NH; Plate 170 light fingerprints on gum (counted as hinged); each with penciled date of acquisition, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $2,780)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 105f,An appealing mint block, lovely bright fresh colour and displaying ideal full strength Type D lathework, hinged at top leaving lower pair NH, VF (Unitrade cat. as two NH singles)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 105,Four strips of ten with consecutive plate numbers: UR Plate 171, straight edge stamp hinged, natural gum skip on two, otherwise NH, UL Plate 172 straight edge stamp hinged, nine stamps NH, UR Plate 173, LH in selvedge, stamps NH and UL Plate 174 straight edge stamp LH, others NH. Plates 171 and 174 in a deeper orange yellow shade, latter F-VF centered, the other three strips VF; each with penciled date of acquisition (Unitrade cat. $3,935)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 105,Matching Upper Left Plates 181 & 182 strips of ten, bright and fresh, VLH on straight edge stamp leaving nine stamps in both strips NH; penciled "Apr 21 / 25" and "Apr 22 / 25" dates of acquisition, VF (Unitrade cat. $2,240)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 106c shade,Upper left Plate 8 strip of ten with superior centering and exceptional colour, some supported split perfs, centre pair hinged leaving other eight stamps NH; a beautiful early plate multiple, VF (Unitrade cat. $1,040)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 106ii,An attractive, consecutive, matching quartet of plate strips of ten: Plate 21 Fine, Plate 22 Fine, Plate 23 F-VF and Plate 24 F-VF, from upper right pane position and with radiant colour, first two strips with etched printing order number "116" and last two etched "122" at left. Each strip hinged in selvedge, as well as Plate 21 stamp Pos. 1, all others including stamps from other three plates are never hinged. A very scarce quartet, Fine to F-VF (Unitrade cat. $1,790)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 106ii,A remarkable upper right Plate 45 block of twenty, printing order number "195" at left, very distinctive among the myriad shades found on this particular stamp, quite well centered, hinged between sixth and seventh stamp in top row, the other eighteen are NH; penciled "9 Nov 16" date of acquisition. A fabulous plate multiple, F-VF NH (Unitrade cat. $1,590+)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 106,An unusually choice mint Upper Left Plate 67 strip of ten, well centered with large margins, LH in selvedge only, stamps with pristine original gum, VF+ NH (Unitrade cat. $1,200)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 106iv,Lower right mint Plate 76 strip of ten in the striking, scarcer shade, well centered with three stamps never hinged; penciled "Aug 9 . 15" date of acquisition. A lovely plate strip for the shade enthusiast, VF (Unitrade cat. $1,120)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 106 shades,Consecutive trio of plate strips of ten: LL Plate 85 nearly VF centering, UL Plate 86 VF and UR Plate 87 F-VF, each strip in a different shade of carmine and one or two stamps hinged / lightly hinged, leaving others never hinged; a very scarce trio of plate numbered strips, F-VF to VF (Unitrade cat. $2,350)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 106iv,Lower Left mint Plate 94 block of twenty, fabulous, distinctive shade among the myriad known, unusually well centered for such large plate block, left sheet margin partly severed, some split perfs in places, sensibly reinforced by hinge between seventh and eighth stamp of top row, both straight edge stamps LH, leaving sixteen stamps never hinged, VF (Unitrade cat. $3,640)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 106,Consecutive, matching trio of plate strips of ten: Plate 101 VF, Plate 102 F-VF, and Plate 103, from upper left pane position and with deep fresh colour, first two strips hinged / LH in selvedge only, stamps NH, Plate 103 hinged on two stamps, others NH. Select plate strips with better centering and overall freshness, VF (Unitrade cat. $2,940)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 106,A post office fresh quartet of plate strips of ten, all matching upper right positions with consecutive Plate numbers 119 to 122, the first F-VF, all others unusually well centered and VF, last two in a darker shade of carmine. Each strip LH in margin leaving all stamps NH, F-VF to VF+ (Unitrade cat. $4,300)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 106,Brilliant fresh Upper Left mint Plate 137 block of twenty, nicely centered, radiant colour on fresh paper, lightly hinged in selvedge only, all stamps with pristine original gum, never hinged, VF (Unitrade cat. $2,400)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 106iii, v, vii,A quartet of plate strips of ten with consecutive plate numbers, in three distinctive shades: UR Plate 143 and UL Plate 144 in deep red, UR Plate 145 in red and UR Plate 146 in dark carmine; minor perf separation in margin of Plate 143. Plate 145 F-VF centered, otherwise VF, lightly hinged in margins leaving all stamps NH. An attractive group in choice condition (Unitrade cat. $4,300)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 107e,A well centered mint pair in the distinctive dry printing, with nearly full strength Type D lathework, large margins and fabulous fresh colour, part of guide arrow visible at bottom left. A very scarce lathework and printing combination, VF+ LH

Provenance: "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Admiral Issue (private treaty circa. 1997)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 107iii,An impressive mint block displaying unusually complete six-line Pyramid Guideline in left margin, fabulous rich colour on a distinctive medium wove paper, very scarce, F-VF NH

ADMIRAL STAMPS 107i, iii,Mint block with rich colour and showing a superb impression of the complete six-line Pyramid Guide in right sheet margin, very rare thus - the first mint block encountered by Leopold Beaudet, leading authority on the Admiral issue; hinged on top pair, a great item for the specialist, Fine

ADMIRAL STAMPS 107a, iii,A post office fresh mint block on the distinctive thin wove paper, showing a five-line Pyramid Guide in the left margin, full unblemished original gum, F-VF NH

ADMIRAL STAMPS 107 shade,Three consecutive, matching plate strips of ten, each in a lovely bright, deep shade: Plates 175, 176, 177 from Upper Left position; penciled date of acquisition. Each well centered, LH on straight edged stamp only leaving nine NH in each; Plate 175 has natural gum skip on one stamp; a visually striking trio, VF (Unitrade cat. $4,050)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 107i,Plate 180 block of fourteen (upper left pane), minor split perfs in margin, amazing deep colour on fresh paper, very well centered, LH at top right corner just touching straight edge stamp, all others VF NH (Unitrade cat. $2,000)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 107e,Matching pair of Upper Right Plates 183 & 184 strips of ten, penciled date of acquisition, LH in selvedge, all stamps are NH except one straight edged stamp, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $985)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 107a,Quite well centered Upper Left Plate 185 block of twenty, some supported split perfs, latter just touching fourth and fifth stamps, top right stamp LH, the other seventeen are NH, VF (Unitrade cat. $1,800)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 107iv,A brilliant fresh, matching pair of Upper Right Plates 199 & 200 strips of ten, both lightly hinged once in the selvedge leaving all stamps mint NH; both with penciled date of acquisition, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $960)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 107iv,Four plate strips of ten with consecutive plate numbers - the last four used for this issue: UR Plate 226, VF, UL Plate 227, F-VF, UL Plate 228, VF & UL Plate 229, VF; all four strips LH in selvedge and on straight edge stamp, the other nine stamps in each strip are NH, a lovely group (Unitrade cat. $2,900)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 108,A peerless mint block displaying one of the rarest examples of lathework, the Type C INVERTED plainly visible, well centered with intact perforations, bright colour and clear impression on fresh paper, hinged at top leaving the important lower pair and sheet margin with pristine original gum, NEVER HINGED. A glorious lathework block of the utmost rarity and desirability, VF OG / NH

Provenance: George Marler, Maresch Sale 143, September 1982; Lot 281
Admiral collection, unknown provenance, Maresch Sale 250, December 1990; Lot 966
The "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Admiral Issue (private treaty circa 1997)

After extensive research for other mint examples, we were only able to find:

1) an unused (no gum) block; ex. Stan Lum, September 2013; Lot 1172 and John Smallman, February 2018; Lot 137
2) mint NH single; ex. "Crossings", January 2010; Lot 399 and John Smallman, February 2018; Lot 138

We have also seen images of two others: one faulty unused (no gum) and the other mint hinged.

ADMIRAL STAMPS 108iv,Mint block of four showing an unusually strong impression of the six-line Pyramid Guide in right margin, lightly folded along perfs, a very scarce block that is under-catalogued in our opinion, Fine+ NH

ADMIRAL STAMPS 108iv, variety,A mint positional block showing a most unusual "two-line" Pyramid Guide facing in reverse. An interesting item which we do not recall seeing before, F-VF NH

Provenance: Robert A. Chaplin, Maresch Sale 223, January 1989; Lot 685
The "Lindemann" Collection - Canada Admiral Issue (private treaty circa. 1997)

An extremely rare Pyramid Guide type, after extensive searching for comparable, we were only able to locate one other badly off-centered (and with fault) in the Stan Lum collection (September 2013; Lot 1111 - described then as "Unique Admiral Rarity").

ADMIRAL STAMPS 108,Upper Left Plate 2 block of twenty, fresh colour, end pairs hinged leaving sixteen stamps NH. A very scarce, early plate block, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $1,480)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 108b,The visually striking scarcer shade in a well centered Upper Right Plate 22 strip of ten, penciled date of acquisition, LH in selvedge and natural bend on Position 8, otherwise VF NH (Unitrade cat. $1,950)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 108 shades,An attractive and very scarce quartet of plate strips of ten, displaying three shades of brown: UL Plate 29 & 31 and UR Plate 33 & 34, each with pencil date of acquisition. Plate 33 reasonably centered, others quite well centered. First two strips with straight edge stamp VLH and nine stamps NH, last two strips LH in selvedge with stamps NH, F-VF to VF (Unitrade cat. $5,150)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 108,Consecutive & matching trio of plate strips of ten: Plate 37, 38, 39 from the Upper Right pane position; penciled dates of acquisition. Each strip in a lovely deep rich shade, LH in selvedge only leaving all stamps NH. A very scarce group of plate strips, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $2,550)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 108,Consecutive & matching trio of plate strips of ten, each in a lovely deep rich shade: Plate 72, 73, 74 from Upper Left pane position; penciled date of acquisition. Each strip quite well centered, LH in selvedge only leaving all stamps NH. An impressive and very scarce group of plate strips, VF (Unitrade cat. $4,500)

These three plates were the source of the extremely rare Type C inverted lathework (found on lower left & lower right panes).

ADMIRAL STAMPS 108ii,A choice, well centered Upper Right Plate 99 strip of ten, penciled "May 13 / 21" date of acquisition, amazing deep colour, single light hinge in selvedge just touching straight edged stamp leaving nine NH, VF (Unitrade cat. $1,680)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 108,Two attractive, matching plate strips: Plates 106 and 107 Upper Right positions; penciled date of acquisition. Both with lovely fresh colour and well centered. Plate 106 LH in selvedge and straight edge stamp, nine stamps NH, Plate 107 LH in selvedge, two stamps with natural gum skip, eight stamps NH. Very Fine (Unitrade cat. $2,700)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 109d,A choice Upper Left Plate 117 strip of ten, couple light hinge marks in selvedge, stamps are never hinged; penciled "May 4 / 26" date of acquisition. A selected plate strip in a lovely shade, VF (Unitrade cat. $1,200)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 109,A superb Plate 142 block of eight, very well centered with large margins, bright colour, a few split perfs in selvedge only, unusually choice, XF NH (Unitrade cat. $720)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 109c,Three matching plate strips of ten with consecutive numbers - plates 156, 157 and 158 Upper Left; penciled date of acquisition. Each strip LH in selvedge only leaving all stamps NH. A rare trio of plate strips of the scarcer die. F-VF (Unitrade cat. $3,900)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 109c,A seldom seen Plate 161 block of eight, especially attractive with radiant colour, light LH in selvedge, stamps are VF NH (Unitrade cat. $1,680)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 110b, iv,A noteworthy mint vertical pair showing the very elusive Pyramid Guide in right margin, an unusually strong "six-line" impression clearly visible, nicely centered with deep colour, VF LH

Although the 4c Pyramid Guideline has a similar catalogue value as the 5c violet on thin or medium paper, it is far more difficult to obtain.

ADMIRAL STAMPS 110 shade,Upper Left Plate 2 block of twenty, nicely centered with amazingly rich colour, lightly hinged on vertical end pairs only, leaving the other sixteen stamps with full unblemished original gum, never hinged. A fabulous and choice plate block in a distinctive deeper shade, VF LH / NH (Unitrade cat. $5,200) ex. C.M. Jephcott (June 1990; Lot 772)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 111b,A remarkable mint upper Plate 1 block of twenty in an outstanding bright shade, initial printing order numbers "84" and "104" etched out and new number "115" at left; severed between second and third columns supported by hinges, mild perf separation mostly in top margin and natural gum bends, four stamps hinged leaving sixteen NH. A rare and visually striking plate block, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $12,200) ex. C.M. Jephcott (June 1990; Lot 787)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 111a,A visually striking top margin mint Plate 2 strip of five, printing order number "84" etched at right, distinctive deep bold colour and impression of the first printing (Plates 1 and Plate 2 were simultaneously issued), lightly hinged in selvedge only, all stamps are NH. A scarce early printing plate multiple, Fine+ (Unitrade cat. $2,100) ex. George Marler (September 1982; Lot 326)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 111,A reasonably centered Upper Right Plate 8 strip of ten with rich colour; hinged in margin, split perfs reinforced between second and third stamps, eight stamps are NH. A rare plate strip, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $4,530) ex. George Marler (September 1982; Lot 351), Robert Bayes (private treaty 1996)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 111,Post office fresh, well centered upper right Plate 9 strip of ten, pencil "July 20 / 20" date of acquisition. End stamps LH, a few split perfs in margin strengthened by a hinge; eight stamps NH. A very scarce plate strip with great colour, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $4,530)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 112i,An attractive shade in a block of four displaying unusually strong, nearly full strength Type D lathework, very scarce thus, LH on top pair leaving lower pair NH; a striking shade and lathework combination, VF (Unitrade cat. for lesser strength lathework)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 112a, v,A mint block showing the six-line Pyramid Guide in left margin, post office fresh colour, scarce, F-VF NH

ADMIRAL STAMPS 112a, v,A post office fresh mint block of four showing the six-line Pyramid Guide in right margin, deep rich colour, F-VF NH

ADMIRAL STAMPS 112v,A fresh mint block with rich colour showing clear five-line Pyramid Guide in right margin, difficult to find, F-VF NH

ADMIRAL STAMPS 112iii,Upper Right Plate 19 strip of ten with Retouched Vertical Line in UR spandrel on each, radiant colour on fresh paper, lightly hinged in selvedge leaving stamps F-VF NH; penciled "24 Apl 24" date of acquisition from Post Office by pioneer collector Major K. Hamilton White (Unitrade cat. $2,200)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 112ii,Upper Right Plate 21 block of twenty, exceptional colour and bright fresh impression in an unmistakable shade, faint natural bend on two stamps, lightly hinged in selvedge only, all stamps are NH. A beautiful plate block, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $2,200)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 112,Upper Left Plate 22 strip of ten, brilliant fresh colour, hinged on straight edged stamp only, otherwise F-VF NH (Unitrade cat. $1,030)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 113a,A remarkable Plate 3 block of twenty in a very attractive shade, printing order number "189", exceptional colour on fresh paper, a few negligible split perfs in top margin, end pairs lightly hinged leaving sixteen stamps NH, seldom encountered in such a large plate block, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $3,840) ex. C.M. Jephcott (June 1990; Lot 821)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 113iv,An impressive, well centered Plate 4 strip of six with printing order "189", deep rich colour on fresh paper, lightly hinged in selvedge and left stamp leaving five stamps NH. A very scarce plate multiple in an elusive shade, VF (Unitrade cat. $6,400) ex. Robert Bayes (private treaty 1996)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 114b,A fabulous, unusually well centered Upper Right Plate 7 block of twenty, end pairs VLH leaving sixteen stamps NH, VF+; a choice and scarce plate block. (Unitrade cat. $2,340) ex. C.M. Jephcott (June 1990; Lot 830)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 115,A selected Plate 1 block of eight, etched "H" above "L.B.C." characteristic of upper left pane, very well centered with large margins, fabulous colour and pristine original gum. A wonderful plate block, XF NH (Unitrade cat. $1,440+)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 116,An impressive corner margin block with brilliant fresh colour, showing ideally strong, full strength Type B lathework, which is by far the scarcest type on the 10c plum, a beautiful block that is among a very small number of multiples still extant, hinged at top leaving lower pair NEVER HINGED, Fine+ (Unitrade cat. as two NH singles)

We are aware of only two other mint blocks, each with two or three stamps hinged.

ADMIRAL STAMPS 116a,A spectacular upper margin mint Plate 2 block of twenty, printing order number "86" etched at left; a few split perforations mainly strengthened by hinges, displaying the bright, delicate shade of the first printing (Plates 1 and 2 were simultaneously issued), eleven stamps NEVER HINGED. A rare, early issued plate strip of this key Admiral stamp, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $14,660) ex. C.M. Jephcott (June 1990; Lot 852)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 116,Upper Left Plate 3 strip of ten, portion of printing order number "175" above Position 8, exceptionally bright shade, light hinged in selvedge only leaving all stamps NH and Fine; a rare large plate numbered multiple of this key value Admiral. (Unitrade cat. $2,400+)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 116,A precisely centered lower margin Plate 4 block of six, radiant colour on fresh paper with three stamps NH, a rare and attractive plate block, XF (Unitrade cat. $4,800)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 117,Mint single with the exceedingly rare Type D inverted lathework - better strength (40%) than the usual trace as found on the mere few examples known, allowing characteristics to ascertain its identity, faint hinge mark in the margin, stamp NH. Among the rarest of all Admiral lathework, Fine

Only four pieces have been reported - a mint single, a mint block, a vertical precancelled strip of three and a used single.

ADMIRAL STAMPS 117iv,Right margin pair in a deeper shade of blue, showing the very rare Pyramid Guide - a remarkably sharp impression of "six-line" clearly visible, LH with faint crease on top stamp. Pyramid Guides on the 10c blue are very elusive - many of the important Admiral collections of the past were unable to obtain one, F-VF LH; ex. "Lindemann" collection (private treaty circa. 1997)

Of the very few examples we were able to locate, nearly all are in the light blue shade, noticeably off-center and with only about three lines of the pyramid guide visible.

ADMIRAL STAMPS 117ii,A fabulous Upper Right Plate 15 block of twenty, well centered, brilliant colour and impression on fresh paper, end pairs lightly hinged, leaving sixteen stamps NH. A visually striking and most appealing plate block, VF (Unitrade cat. $4,680) ex. C.M. Jephcott (June 1990; Lot 866)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 117,Upper Right Plate 16 block of twenty, lovely fresh colour, vertical end pairs lightly hinged leaving sixteen NH, Fine (Unitrade cat. $1,080) ex. C.M. Jephcott (June 1990; Lot 867)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 117,A matching pair of Upper Right Plates 21 and 22 strips of ten, both with bright fresh colour, hinged once in right side selvedge, all stamps are NH, an attractive duo, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $3,300)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 118b,Upper Left Plate 21 block of twenty in the distinctive shade, lightly hinged in selvedge and vertical end pairs leaving sixteen stamps NH (small area of glazed gum on one); the first plate issued in the bistre colour, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $2,460)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 119c,Lower left corner block, "OTTAWA No. 5" imprint visible under Type A (80-90% strength) lathework, LH on top pair leaving lower pair NH, scarce, Fine+

ADMIRAL STAMPS 119c,Mint plate "A5" block with natural straight edge and guide arrow at left, showing full strength Type A lathework with strikingly prominent doubling (16mm wide) below right stamp, "No 5" imprint visible underneath lathework below centre stamp; top centre stamp LH, others NH. A very scarce plate numbered lathework piece, Fine+ (Unitrade cat. is for lathework pair with imprint and doubling)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 119c,A nicely centered mint block with large margins, radiant colour and showing remarkably full strength Type D lathework, light hinge at top leaving bottom pair NH, VF

Provenance: George Marler, Maresch Sale 143, September 1982; Lot 514

ADMIRAL STAMPS 119,A selected, well centered Plate 3 strip of six, original order number "313" etched off and replaced with "351" at right, a few split perfs and hinged once in the selvedge, stamps are VF NH; a rare and appealing plate multiple. (Unitrade cat. $2,700)

Interestingly enough the plate number "3" is clearly doubled with two side-by-side impressions visible.

ADMIRAL STAMPS 119c,A remarkably fresh mint Upper Right Plate 5 block of twenty, exceptional colour, quite well centered for such a large multiple, hinged in margin only, all stamps with full pristine original gum, NEVER HINGED. A most attractive block, very few strips of twenty of any plate number survived, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $7,600)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 119c,Upper Right mint Plate 6 block of twenty in a shade closely resembling the elusive sage green, top right and the two straight edged stamps hinged, the other seventeen with full pristine original gum, never hinged. Possibly the largest surviving Plate 6 block, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $6,880)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 122iii,A brilliant fresh mint block showing four-line Pyramid Guide in the left margin, marginal crease, otherwise VF NH (Unitrade cat. $5,250)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 122iii variety,A quite well centered block with sharp, six-line Pyramid Guide in left margin, precancelled with city-type Montreal "Style 6", additional lightly struck boxed datestamp; faint scuff at top and few split perfs strengthened by a hinge, a very rare wet printing pyramid guide block, F-VF

Unitrade catalogue value is for a fine used pyramid guide block in the common dry printing. Wet printings blocks, mint or used are virtually non-existent.

ADMIRAL STAMPS 128ai,A fresh and well centered mint block, rarely seen thus and showing much higher strength Type D lathework than we are accustomed to seeing, negligible nibbed perfs left, full original gum lightly hinged at top, VF+; ex. Harry Lussey (June 1981; Lot 1255)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 136,A selected block of six with deep colour and showing normal strength (40%) Type D inverted lathework, VF NH (Unitrade cat. $2,200)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 136,A choice, fresh Upper Right Plate 179 strip of twenty, seldom seen in such nice condition, VF NH (Unitrade cat. $2,200)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 137,Post office fresh Upper Left Plate 188 block of twenty, remarkably choice, a scarce large plate multiple in select quality, VF-XF NH (Unitrade cat. $2,200)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 138,Matching set of three lower margin imperforate Plates 126, 127 & 128 blocks of twelve, each displaying full, strong Type D lathework, each hinged to lightly hinged with some NH stamps; Plate 126 has light crease on left vertical pair, VF (Unitrade cat. $2,500+ as hinged)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 138,An impressive mint Plate 129 block of twelve from the upper right pane position, characteristic impression of the imprint, hinged on slightly trimmed margin at top as normally seen, one stamp VLH leaving eleven NH. One of only six Plate 129 multiples recorded (one is used), none larger than a plate of twelve, VF (Unitrade $3,000 for a hinged plate block of eight)

Provenance: Harry Lussey, Maresch Sale 131, June 1981; Lot 1285
Robert A. Chaplin, Maresch Sale 223, January 1989; Lot 861

ADMIRAL STAMPS 139iii,A premium quality mint block showing an unusually sharp, six-line Pyramid Guide in right margin, well centered with bright fresh colour among the nicest one can hope to find, VF+ NH

ADMIRAL STAMPS 139,A well centered Plate 115 block of eight, bright fresh colour, VF NH (Unitrade cat. $1,500)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 139,Post office fresh Plate 116 block of eight, choice well centered with pristine original gum, VF+ NH (Unitrade cat. $1,500)

ADMIRAL STAMPS 140ii,Left and right margin blocks with sharp five-line Pyramid Guides, former with light foxing on gum and hinged mostly in the margin, latter block quite well centered with bright fresh colour and very lightly hinged. A very scarce duo, VF

ADMIRAL STAMPS 140,Post office fresh Plate 117 block of twenty from upper left pane, bright colour and well centered, VF NH (Unitrade cat. $1,700)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR1,A choice, well centered Upper Right Plate 4 block of twenty, bright fresh colour, vertical end pairs LH leaving sixteen NH, an impressive large plate block in selected VF condition (Unitrade cat. $2,080)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR1,A well centered Lower Left Plate 5 block of twenty, deep bright colour, top left stamp and straight edged stamps LH, remaining seventeen are NH. A very scarce large plate block with nearly VF centering (Unitrade cat. $1,265+)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR1,Lower Left Plate 6 block of twenty with attractive, deep colour, vertical end pairs hinged, other sixteen NH, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $1,220+)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR1,Upper left Plate 8 strip of ten, initial printing order number "295" etched out and engraved "3" number in place above stamp Position 10, well centered and fresh, lightly hinged in selvedge and straight edged stamp leaving nine stamps VF NH (Unitrade cat. $1,120)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR2,A matching pair of Lower Right Plate 7 and Plate 8 blocks of twenty, well centered, end pairs hinged; latter block with small gum thin on top corner stamps. Both blocks with sixteen stamps NH, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $2,440)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR2Ci,An extraordinary Plate 2 block of ten, printing order number "197" at top left, nicely centered with rich colour, lower centre stamp with tiny gum thin and hinged, three others VLH leaving six NEVER HINGED. A very rare and impressive War Tax large plate block, ideal for a serious collection, VF (Unitrade cat. $6,000)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR3b, MR4,Strip of three and 2c+1c Brown, Die II single unused, each stamp with serifed SPECIMEN (22.5 x 2.5mm) handstamp in black struck diagonally, former with some minor faults not visible from front. Unusual duo, F-VF

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR3,Plate 1 and Plate 2 strips of ten, lower right and lower left position respectively, both with lovely fresh, rich colour, end stamps hinged, leaving eight NH in each; penciled date of acquisition from Post Office by pioneer collector Major K. Hamilton White, VF (Unitrade cat. $3,120)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR3,Upper Left Plate 5 block of twenty, nicely centered and in a bright shade, hinged in selvedge and straight edged stamps, other eighteen are NH. A beautiful plate multiple, VF (Unitrade cat. $1,950)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR3a,Upper Left mint Plate 15 block of twenty of the scarcer die displaying characteristic deep colour, upper left stamp and straight edged stamps hinged, surface abrasion on pos. 10, seventeen stamps are NH. Some split perfs and lightened pencil number in selvedge. A rare Die II plate block; only a few exist from either Plate (15 or 16), Fine+ (Unitrade cat. $5,500+)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4b,A very rare imperforate plate block showing full Plate 1 inscription in top margin, ungummed as issued, VF; ex. C.M. Jephcott (private sale, circa. 1980s)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4b,A very rare imperforate plate block showing full Plate 2 inscription in top margin, ungummed as issued, VF; ex. C.M. Jephcott (private sale, circa. 1980s)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4c,A spectacular top left corner margin imperforate Plate 17 strip of four from the much scarcer die, in the characteristic deeper shade. This plate multiple originates from the UNIQUE imperforate Die II sheet; immaterial crease entirely confined to margins, ungummed as issued, VF (Unitrade $6,000 as two pairs)

A UNIQUE IMPERFORATE WAR TAX PLATE MULTIPLE THAT ONCE GRACED THE IMPORTANT JEPHCOTT COLLECTION. AN ABSOLUTE SHOWPIECE.

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4ii,Top left corner margin plate block of eight imperforate vertically with complete Plate 3 inscription, characteristic centering for this part-perforate issue and very rare as a plate block, F-VF; ex. C.M. Jephcott (private sale circa. 1980s)

The 2c+1c brown War Tax stamps from Plate 3 and 4 were never issued as a regular perforated stamps. These part perforate stamps were prepared from sheets printed from plates designated for the coil issue.

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4ii,Top left corner plate block of eight imperforate vertically with complete Plate 4 inscriptions, wrinkling at top edge of the selvedge and some light foxing mainly visible from the back; characteristic centering for this part-perforate issue and very rare as a plate block, F-VF; ex. C.M. Jephcott (private sale circa. 1980s)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4,A spectacular mint block from the lower right corner of the sheet, displaying the rare Type B INVERTED lathework - a superb, full strength impression with part of guide arrow at right, nicely centered, natural gum inclusion on lower left stamp, NEVER HINGED. A very rare lathework block, VF NH

A little over a dozen MR4 with Type B inverted lathework items have been accounted for. Most are singles or pairs, making this block very rare indeed.

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4,A fresh, well centered lower right strip of ten, "A35" imprint below Position 91 and strong, full Type A lathework on others, the imprint "OTTAWA No A35" and printing order "937M" are visible under the lathework at Positions 92, 93 and 99; also prominent DOUBLE lathework (15mm wide) below Position 94. Perfs severed between seventh & eighth stamps strengthened by hinges, end stamps LH leaving six lathework stamps including the key double NH, penciled "28 May 17" date of acquisition, VF (Unitrade cat. $6,960)

Provenance: George Marler, Maresch Sale 143, September 1982; Lot 732
Unknown provenance, Maresch Sale 250, December 1990; Lot 1045

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4,A selected, well centered lower right strip of ten, "36" imprint below Position 91 and strong, full Type A lathework on others, prominent DOUBLE lathework varieties - 7mm below Position 94 and 21mm wide (very unusual) below Positions 98-99. Left stamp LH leaving all lathework stamps NH, VF (Unitrade cat. $5,940)

Provenance: Unknown provenance, Maresch Sale 250, December 1990; Lot 1046

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4,Well centered strip of ten from lower right corner, natural straight edge, "A37 / 937N" imprint and printing order shown below Position 100; displaying strong, full Type A lathework on others, DOUBLE lathework (12mm wide) shown below Positions 96 & 97. Perfs severed between seventh & eighth stamps strengthened by hinges, left pair and right stamp hinged leaving five lathework stamps NH, VF (Unitrade cat. $3,520)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4a,An extraordinary mint Plate 2 block of twenty from the lower left position with printing order number "937A" below Position 99. The scarcer die remarkably displaying superior centering, the two vertical end pairs hinged, small gum thin on Pos. 96, light pencil number in selvedge. FIFTEEN STAMPS ARE NEVER HINGED, mostly with VF centering. An immensely rare plate block, only a block of four and strip of three of Plate 2 have been reported. A wonderful exhibit-caliber multiple and one of the highlights of this pre-eminent Admiral collection, VF (Unitrade cat. $75,000)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4,A select Lower Right mint Plate 22 block of twenty, fabulous colour on fresh paper, unusually well centered for such a large block, vertical end pairs hinged leaving sixteen NH, VF and attractive (Unitrade cat. $2,080)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4,Upper Right mint Plate 23 block of twenty well centered, brilliant fresh colour, light pencil number in margin, end pairs hinged leaving other sixteen NH, VF (Unitrade cat. $2,080)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4, MR4i,Mint Plate 27 yellow brown and Plate 28 deep brown strips of ten, lower left and lower right positions respectively. Both well centered, end stamps hinged leaving eight NH in each, VF (Unitrade cat. $2,080)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4i,Upper Right mint Plate 29 block of twenty with brilliant fresh colour, lower stamp at each end hinged, the other eighteen NH. A very scarce plate multiple, F-VF (Unitrade cat. $1,310)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4,A choice, well centered Upper Left mint Plate 42 strip of ten, rich colour, hinged in selvedge and right-hand pair, other eight stamps NH, VF (Unitrade cat. $1,040)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR4, i, shade,A matching trio of upper left plate strips of ten with consecutive plate numbers - Upper Left Plate 46 in deep yellowish brown, 47 & 48 in dark brown. Hinged on selvedge and straight edged stamp on first two, plate 48 with three stamps hinged, all others NH. Plate 46 with natural bends on two stamps; penciled date of acquisition from Post Office by pioneer collector Major K. Hamilton White, F-VF; a rare trio of plate strips (Unitrade cat. $1,875)

ADMIRAL STAMPS MR7a, iii, iv,Paste-up mint coil strip composed of two distinctive shade pairs, yellow brown and brown shade respectively, short perfs at left but striking, VF LH