The early results are just starting to filter through for the Rolfe E Wyer collection of French Colonies stamps which is being sold at Spink Shreves. According to the auctioneer this is "without a doubt, the finest assemblage of French Colonies offered at public auction in recent memory".
An early highlight from the French Offices in China section is an Yvert #22A, 1901 '16 Cents' Surcharge on 25c Black on Rose.
Specifically it is a black surcharge - a very pleasing example of this Offices in China rarity, being tied to the piece by clear 21 April 1901 Peking datestamp. Fresh and very fine, it is one of a mere 50 stamps to have received the surcharge in black instead of red and it sold for $4,500.
However, we're still eagerly awaiting the result of the 1914 "TOGO/Anglo-French/Occupation" overprint on 2M Blue with the overprint inverted.
 Togo stamp overprint invert |
It is a wonderfully fresh and choice mint example of this error rarity, with deep luxuriant colour on fresh white paper, original gum only lightly hinged and generally very fine.
Only one sheet of twenty stamps was printed with the inverted overprint, all are mint; signed Holcombe and accompanied by his 1991 certificate. This makes it a strong investment.
Scott does not list a catalogue price, but Stanley Gibbons gives £12,000 (just under $20,000). Watch this space for the incoming result.
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