Heritage/Bennett's Signature New York Stamps Auction on December 10, 2009, was the final philatelic event of the year.

It ended 2009 on a high: realising $1.8m, with various rare and choice examples performing above expectations.

Leading the sale was a newly-discovered and exceedingly rare duck stamp color error: a 1946 $1 Redhead Ducks, Bright Rose Pink shade (RW13a), which realised $32,200.

The 1946 $1 Redhead Ducks, Bright Rose Pink shade (RW13a)

"This is the first time that this beautiful stamp has ever been offered at public auction," said Harvey Bennett, Director of Philately at Heritage/Bennett Auctions, in a statement.

"And collectors responded with great enthusiasm and strong bidding, as we'd expect for such a piece."

Another striking rarity also caused a stir among collectors: a used pair of $2 on $1 Violet Brown, Double Overprint (K16a) stamps, sold for $27,600.

The pair represents a truly exciting find. It is believed that only one other used pair, and no larger multiple, of this sublime rarity exists.

Certified: the 1946 $1 Redhead Ducks, Bright Rose Pink shade ($32k).

Meanwhile, more than doubling its $10,000 pre-auction estimate, a fresh and bright 1c Green, Perf. 10 at Top (498g) realised $21,850.

"As an unusually well centered example of this popular issue, with its barely, if ever, hinged original gum," said Bennett, "this stamp certainly represents one of the finest Mint singles of this rarest-of-all compound perforation varieties that I've come across."

A newspaper wrapper from Hawaii circa 1852 - Honolulu, Hawaii to New York - and postmarked with the very rare red oval "U.S./Postage Paid" also generated a good deal of pre-auction buzz among philatelists.

It eventually brought $18,400 after competitive bidding.

The wrapper, from the Ron Cipolla Champion of Champions Collection, is one of only five recorded examples of this postmark.