Early last year, Spink Shreve Galleries sold the first of two parts of the greatest collection of New Zealand rare stamps ever assembled - as recognised by an International Award that owner Joseph Hackmey received for the Commonwealth selection.
On Thursday - the very next day after they sell some of Bill Gross's fantastic collection of European stamps - the second part of the collection is to go under the hammer.
The stamps, dating from 1855-1872 include rarities from Ferrary, de Worms, Caspary, Dale-Lichtenstein, Pack, Stanley, Agabeg, Pearson and John Woolfe. Two of the most exciting examples are:
An 1855 1d dull carmine on white paper. Actually, two unused examples are on offer in the auction, of which one is from the collection of Sigmund Adler. However, it is the other which is truly exceptional, with a fresh bright colour.
One of the finest examples known, it bears an estimate of $50,000-60,000, whilst the Adler piece is pegged at $30,000-40,000. There are also some two penny dull blues for sale from the same date.
 Three penny lilac stamp of New Zealand |
Secondly, from 1862 is a 3d lilac, unused without gum, with clear to large margins all round except at upper left. It is of fresh bright colour and, despite slight thinning at the top and minor soiling, is as desirable as anything in the sale, being one of only two examples recorded.
This, one of the rarest of all British Commonwealth stamps, is listed at $40,000-50,000. The auction takes place in New York and over the internet.
- More news on Stamps
- Enjoy the read? Don't forget to sign up for your free newsletter with exclusive content
