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Matthew Bennett News Articles:

 

Newly Discovered 2¢ Harding
Strip of Three Sold at Auction


1
2¢ Harding, Rotary Press, Perf. 11 (Scott 613),
Positions 56-58 from the Upper Right Pane
of Plate Number 14867.   Realized $172,500


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Matthew Bennett to Auction The Dr. Steven J. Berlin Collection of Outstanding United States Stamps & Postal History featuring Postmasters' Provisionals

(Click images to enlarge)
 
1     Baltimore 5˘ black on bluish (3X3), tied solely by blue “Paid” handstamp on to Washington, D.C. Among the finest recorded. Ex-Klein, J.R. Hill Jr.


2     Baltimore 10˘ blue provisional handstamp (3XU3), exceptionally clear and bold strikes on entire to Zanesville, Ohio. One of the finest of only six recorded. Ex -Caspary, Lilly, Horner, Weill Brothers, J.R. Hill Jr.


3     St. Louis 10˘ black on greenish (11X2), type III, position 6, large even margins all around, unused, Extremely Fine. The finest of the six recorded.


4     St. Louis 10˘ black on greenish (11X2), sheet margin vertical pair on 1845 folded letter to Philadelphia. The only known example of a St. Louis Bear multiple with a corner sheet margin on a full cover. Ex-Sweet, Consul Klep, Faiman.


5     St. Louis, Mo., 10˘ black on gray lilac (11X5), vertical strip of three on 1846 folded letter to Philadelphia. One of only two recorded usages franked with a vertical strip of three of the 10˘ Bear on gray lilac paper. Ex-Consul Klep, “Texas Collection”, Weill Brothers, J.R. Hill Jr.


6     3˘ rose, Z. grill (85C), choice Extremely Fine. 1985 and 1992 P.F. Certificates. Ex-“Connoisseur”, Vernon Morris, Rubin.


7     2˘ Pan-American, center inverted (295a), original gum, Very Fine. 1995 P.F. Certificate. Ex-“Derby”, Rubin.


8     5˘ imperforate color error, (485), single error in a block of nine, o.g., never hinged, Extremely Fine


9     5¢ "Buffalo" Balloon, o.g., LH, Extremely Fine


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Matthew Bennett to Auction The John Barwis Collection of Choice Used United States Stamps & Postal History

Public Auction #323 will be held early December in New York City.
(Click images to enlarge)
 
1 2 3
10
4 5 6
11
7 8 9


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The Newly Discovered 2¢ Harding Memorial Rotary Press Perf 11 Strip of Three to be Auctioned by Matthew Bennett International

Matthew Bennett International is pleased to announce that we will be offering the newly discovered strip of three of one of the greatest United States twentieth century rarities. A specialized catalog devoted exclusively to this extraordinary item is available for viewing here. We cover the entire story starting with the man, Warren G. Harding, our 29th President and then follow with the story of the memorial stamp issue, the original discovery of the rotary perf. 11, and finishes with the expertising process.

There are less than 50 total examples recorded of this stamp, and this newly recorded strip of three is now the largest multiple known. Undoubtedly, this is the most important used twentieth century multiple extant, and is being offered at public auction for the first time.

1


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Three Rare Unissued Values of the 1900 Tientsin Provisional Handstamps to be Auctioned This Fall

1   2    1900, 3pf-80pf Tientsin provisional handstamps - the unissued 40pf, 2mk and 3mk plus the 7 issued values. The only value priced in Michel is the 40pf at €50,000. Certificates from W. Jakubek, B. Behr, J-F Brun and R. Calves.
One of only three books known.

To request a catalogue you may email info@bennettstamps.com and ask for Sale #320.

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The “Empire” Collection of 19th and 20th Century Graded States Stamps to Be Auctioned in October

Gathered together in one auction is an unprecedented number of the highest quality graded United States stamps. The collection was assembled over many years by a connoisseur who was on a quest for the finest available example available. Often, when made aware of a gem example of an item already in his holding, he would feel compelled to add the newer item, while still retaining the original. Thus, you will occasionally be able to choose among not only one or two, but sometimes even three of four of the highest quality stamps for any one Scott number. The featured highlights below can offer just a hint of the wonderful gem-quality stamps you will find in the “Empire” collection:

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1     $3 Columbian (243), never hinged, graded XF-S 95. No examples graded higher by either expertising committee


2     1894 10c Bureau (258), never hinged, graded Superb 98. The only example in any condition graded S 98 by the P.S.E. with none graded higher


3     1875 12c Special Printing (173), graded XF 90


4     10˘ Panama-Pacific, perf 10 (404), never hinged, graded Superb 98. One of only four never hinged examples graded Superb 98 by the P.S.E., the highest grade awarded


5     1869 30c without grill variety (121a) original gum, graded XF 90


6     1887 1c ultramarine (212) never hinged, graded Gem 100J. The only unused banknote to achieve this ultimate grade


8     1857 90c blue (39) original gum, graded XF-S 95. The highest graded original gum example by the P.S.E.


9     1918 $2 Franklin (523), never hinged, graded Gem 100. The only recorded example to achieve this lofty grade


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Matthew Bennett International to Auction Bailey World War II Collection and Joseph Eder Stock

The Earl L. “Bill” Bailey collection of
World War II and the Third Reich
As told with stamps and autographs.

The collection, which is illustrated throughout with stamps and picture postcards, begins with the First Reich’s Frederick I and his son Frederick II (“The Great”), followed by the Second Reich and Kaiser Wilhelm II and Prince Otto von Bismarck. Then comes main focus of the collection, the Third Reich with signatures, letters and documents from all the important figures of the period documenting Hitler’s rise to power and his eventual demise. Included are five Hitler autographs, one a postcard dated 28 March 1925, signed by Hitler three months after his release from prison as a result of his participation in the Beer-Hall Putsch-the card is also signed by Hitler supporters Ernst Roehm, Erich Ludendorff, Wilhelm Brueckner and Hermann Kriebel, all of whom were tried with Hitler for their part in Putsch (with all but Ludendorff being convicted and imprisoned). Another Hitler piece is a signed order dated 25 July 1943, in which Hitler calls for the stepping up of V-2 rocket production.

Among the philatelic offerings is a cover originating in the Netherlands that was salvaged from the 1937 Hindenburg airship disaster, the 1943 Reinhard Heydrich presentation sheet that was given out to officials attending the ceremonies on the first anniversary of Heydrich’s assassination and a full sheet of 25 of the Theresienstadt Parcel Authorization Labels with imperforate left margin (Michel 1, 1UI). A few of the highlights from the sale:

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1     First Reich - Frederick the Great


2     Second Reich - Otto von Bismarck


3     Paul von Hindenburg


4     Third Reich - Hitler and the Beer-Hall Putsch


5     The Hindenburg Disaster


6     Reinhard Heydrich Presentation Sheet


 

The Joseph Eder Co. Stock

The late Joseph Eder was a widely respected stamp dealer from Hamden, CT who sold stamps for more than 40 years. He specialized primarily in the stamps of the German Area, but also carried strong stocks of Austria, France and Liechtenstein. We will also be offering the first part of the Eder stock, chiefly the higher priced individual items in our October 19 New York auction. The balance of the stock, including the large lots, will be sold in our Harbour auction in the late Fall.

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The Unique and Newly Discovered 1912
7¢ Imperforate Block To Be Auctioned
by Matthew Bennett International


1
The only recorded example of any of the higher values of the Washington-Franklin series


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Zurich Asia June 28 Hong Kong Auction Realizes in Excess of HK$22,000,000

The buoyant market for the stamps and postal history of China, Hong Kong, and Thailand seems to have no end as it goes from strength to strength. The sale realised HK$22,177,500, which was nearly 30% over the pre-sale estimate.

For example, a complete sheet of the China 1878 Large Dragon 5 candarins soared to an amazing HK$575,000. The illustrious “Red Ruby” (1897 large figures surcharge 1˝mm. setting on Dowager 1st printing 30c. on 24ca.) achieved HK$747,500. Once again, the Red Revenues saw frenetic bidding, with the unsurcharged 3c. being hammered down at HK$850,000 (HK$977,500 with premium) and the Small $1 from the Finegan collection going for HK$2,530,000.

Having realized an amazing record price of HK$977,500 in our previous auction of November 2, 2006, the Dr. Sun Yat-sen $2 inverted centre saw a phone bidder and room bidder once again battle it out with the latter eventually winning at HK$1,092,500 to smash the previous record realization.

The People’s Republic of China saw strong competition from a large contingent of Mainland bidders. The Cultural Revolution unissued “Chairman Mao’s Inscription to Japanese Worker Friends” was HK$368,000 (the previous realization in our November 2006 sale was HK$253,000).

The second portion of the Lee Scamp collection of Hong Kong and Treaty Ports further underlined the wide interest in all aspects of the postal history of this historic area, with numerous lots fetching large multiples of the pre-sale estimate.

Click Here to View/Download Zurich Asia Auction 13 and Prices Realised

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Three Auctions in May Prove Strong Market on U.S Stamps and Postal History, New Zealand and Historical Documents

No matter the venue-whether in person, over the phone, or via the Internet-bidding was fierce for our auctions held May 22 and 23 in New York City. Countless floor and real-time Internet bidders, along with 70 phone bidders, participated in three sales spanning over two days. Autographs continue to have a strong market, with presidents and historical figures with interesting content in great demand. An enthusiastic audience vied for the “Aristocrat” first day covers, both on the floor and over the phone. However, geographical location proved not to be an obstacle for collectors. Nearly 100 active participants in our real-time Internet bidding-including many ardent collectors from New Zealand-were willing to work across the many time zones for the The "DuBois" Collection of New Zealand Chalon Heads. Here are just a few of the highlights from the sales:

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1     Lot 20
3¢ orange brown First Day Cover from Lowell, Mass.
Realized $32,200 — the highest price ever for a 3¢ 1851 FDC


2     Lot 163
1¢ Pan-American Invert, the Earliest of only three recorded covers
Realized $184,000


3     Lot 1001
Samuel Adams, 1784 A.L.S. declining nomination to the Continental Congress
due to poor health. Realized $18,400


4     Lot 1006
Benjamin Franklin, 1777 A.L.S. from Paris while Commissioner to France,
requesting funds to repay a French loan. Realized $43,125


5     Lot 1311
3¢ pigeon blood pink (64a)
Extremely Fine, o.g.
Realized $86,250


6     Lot 1409
4¢ Pan-American (296) plate block of 10, Extremely Fine, NH
Realized $16,675


7     Lot 1499
11¢ perf. 11/10 combination perforations (511a), unique plate block
Realized $28,750


8     Lot 1510
10¢ imperforate (562b) plate block, one of two known
Realized $25,300


9     Lot 2004
1d London print (S.G. 1)
Extremely Fine used
Realized $23,000


10     Lot 2114
1/- emerald Richardson print (S.G. 16) on cover to England, redirected with G.B. 1d red
Realized $9,775


11     Lot 2196
2d Davies print, “Y” roulette (S.G. 67e) on cover from Nelson to Wellington
Realized $9,200


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Matthew Bennett International is pleased to present our upcoming June Harbour Auction

Collections, Balances & Accumulations
U.S. and Worldwide Stamps & Postal History
This sale includes valuable United States and Foreign collections including the Marcel Jaffe Collection of Germany and subdivisions and the G.H. Romberg collection of United States. The U.S. Stamps and Postal History include a fine selection of carrier and locals as well as graded stamps

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February Auctions Bring an Unprecedented 50% Over Pre-Sale Estimates

Sale #314: The Dr. Alphonse A. Maffeo Collection of United States & Confederate Stamps and Important Historical Documents

Beginning with the United States Provisionals and carrying through right to the last of the historical documents, the auction generated enormous excitement, extraordinary competition and record prices realized. To choose the highlights was a most difficult task as item after item achieved newsworthy prices. Below are just a few from the 260 lots of stamps and autographs. To get the full flavor we suggest you view Sale 314 on our website.

(Click images to enlarge)
 
1     Lot 10
8XU3, cut to shape, small repair tear
Cat. $12,500 - Realized $51,750


2     Lot 32
11X3, the finest of only three recorded off-cover examples
Cat. $85,000 - Realized $184,000


3     Lot 33
11X4, one of the finest known off-cover examples of the 5¢ on gray lilac paper
Cat. $25,000 - Realized $71,875


4     Lot 62
295a, original gum, negligible faint corner bend
Cat. $45,000 - Realized $63,250


5     Lot 69
C3a, position 83, small faults
Cat. $275,000 - Realized $241,500


6     Lot 206
a rare Benjamin Franklin holographic letter
Realized $40,250


7     Lot 247
Lafayette letter mourning the death of Washington
Realized $37,375


8     Lot 251
John Marshall letter re fight to ratify U.S. Constitution in Virginia
Realized $43,125


9     Lot 340
Albert Einstein letter mentioning his book on relativity
Realized $12,650


 

Sale #315: United States and Canada and Provinces

As with the sale of the Dr. Maffeo collection, fierce competition led to record realizations. Over the course of the two auctions, over 70 phone bidders vied with collectors on the floor and scores of bidders via the internet and the auction agents. Of particular interest were the numerous stamps with graded certificates from collections such as that of John Sylvester which brought many multiples of their Scott catalogue values. One dramatic example is the Scott #367 with a catalogue value of $11 and a realization of $2,760.

Other examples of strong prices include:

(Click images to enlarge)
 
1     Lot 1170
233a, blue color error, a rare never hinged example
Cat. $34,000 - Realized $40,250


2     Lot 1275
367, with PSE certificate graded Gem 100
Cat. $11 - Realized $2,760


3     Lot 1277
378, with PSE certificate graded Superb 98
Cat. $75 - Realized $4,600


4     Lot 1321
504, with PSE certificate graded Gem 100 J
Cat. $20 - Realized $3,735


5     Lot 1356
613, PSE certificate graded Very Fine 80
Cat. $45,000 - Realized $103,500


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The Aristocrat Collection of First Day Covers and Earliest Documented Usages

Widely regarded as the most important and extensive collection of this area ever formed. Starting with the number one first day cover in United States philately, the 1842 U.S. City Despatch (6LB1), the collection continues into the 20th century with regular issues to 1903, as well as later commemorative and back of the book issues.

U.S. Stamps & Postal History and Important Historical Documents

This sale includes an excellent selection of gem U.S. stamps and covers including a unique 1869 issue cover to the Comoro Islands, important plate blocks and postal stationery, as well as premier autographs from part II of the “White Mountain” collection including Benjamin Franklin while on the American Mission in Paris, George Washington, Paul Revere, Abraham Lincoln, and noteworthy foreign including important British Dignitaries Queen Elizabeth I, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Mary Queen of Scots.

The "DuBois" Collection, New Zealand Chalon Heads of 1855-1872

Features a Large Gold collection that comprises over 400 lots with mint and used singles and multiples, including studies of shades, cancellations and perforations, plus more than 80 covers with a wide variety of rates and usages.



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Matthew Bennett to auction The Aristocrat Collection of First Day Covers and Earliest Documented Usages

Matthew Bennett International is pleased to announce the auction of The Aristocrat Collection of First Day Covers and Earliest Documented Usages - one of the most extensive collections of this area ever formed. It has been exhibited on numerous occasions, last shown competitively at Washington 2006 International exhibition and features numerous outstanding showpieces whose appeal extends far beyond that of the EDU and FDC collector.

This collection is a landmark study, following in the footsteps of Dr. Carroll Chase, Stanley Ashbrook, and Lawrence S. Fisher and others. Starting with the number one first day cover in United States philately, the 1842 U.S. City Despatch (6LB1), the collection continues into the 20th century with regular issues to 1903, and continues with later commemorative and back of the book issues. Highlights include U.S. Provisional Issues with the EDU of the Brattleboro 5c (5X1), both 1861 first day covers of the 3c pink (64) and 3c rose-pink (64b), EDUs of the 1869 24c (120) and 30c (121) enhanced by their Chinese destinations, the unique combination 1883 2c, 4c (210, 211) first day cover, the Burger 1c-5c & 10c (231-234, 237) matched set of Columbian first day covers, the Trans-Mississippi 1c-5c (285-288) first day cover to India, the EDU of the 1c Pan-American Invert (294a) on cover and 2c Pan-American Invert (295a) off-cover and the unique Louisiana Purchase (323-327) complete set first day cover.

The owner of the “Aristocrat” Collection has made a generous offer to all winning bidders in the sale. Successful buyers will receive a complimentary electronic copy of the data base compiled by this avid collector over a 43 year period. Armed with this detailed information, specialists will be able to continue the research, add to the scholarship and, quite possibly discover new earliest documented usages for future collectors.



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New Zealand Chalon Heads 1855-1872 in Upcoming Auction

Coming soon to public auction from Matthew Bennett International: an International Large Gold collection featuring mint and used singles and multiples, including studies of shades, cancellations and perforations, plus more than 80 covers with a wide variety of rates and usages. The collection is supported by over 250 certificates and many pieces can trace their lineage to some of the great New Zealand collections of the past. For more information, please contact Matthew Bennett at 410.453.9784 or info@bennettstamps.com.

(Click images to enlarge)
 
1     1855 London printing 1d deep carmine-red used.
SG 1


2     1857-63 Richardson printing, 1d dull orange, pair pin roulette 9-10 at top and left, mixed pin perf. and Y-roulette between. Ex Adam Hunter.
SG32c var.


3     1858 Richardson printing 2d deep ultramarine on thick paper marginal strip of three used.
SG 8a


4     1858 Dunedin provisional bisect, vertical half of 1/- used to pay 6d rate to Scotland


5     1860 Three-color franking to Ayrshire, Scotland via Marseilles, G.B. 1d red pays forwarding postage to Prestwick.


6     1862 Davies printing, 1/- yellow-green, perf. 13 at Dunedin, considered the finest known. Ex Marcel Stanley.
SG 80


7     1862 Davies printing, 1d carmine-vermilion, serrated perf 16 at Nelson.
SG 59


8     1867 Provisional imperforate 2d strip of three from Auckland to Coventry.
SG 115c


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Matthew Bennett Brings to Auction a Diverse Sale Featuring Numerous Gem Quality, Graded United States Stamps and an Extensive Holding of Canada and Provinces

A diverse sale of United States and Canada featuring the U.S. collections of John A. Sylvester and Louis J. Taratoot, and a selection of plated 10¢ 1847s from a Texas gentleman will be held at The Four Seasons Hotel in New York city on February 21st.

The U.S. portion of the sale presents a fine array of singles with many high grade certificates as well as an extensive collection of high quality plate blocks.

Additionally, there is a strong section of Canadian and Provinces with many rare and several unique pieces.

(Click images to enlarge)
 
1     Scott #153
gem mint example, PSE Graded XF-Superb 95


2     Scott #342
rare top plate block in choice condition


3     Scott # 404
rare full top plate block in choice condition


4     Scott # 613
2¢ Harding rotary press perforated 11, newly discovered


5     1851 3d red on laid paper, a great rarity - regarded as the unique used block on laid paper


6     1852 3d brown red unused block of four, with stitch watermark through left pair, unique multiple


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Matthew Bennett February 2007 Auction to Feature the Dr. Alphonse A. Maffeo Collection

FERUARY AUCTION AT THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL- NEW YORK CITY featuring the Dr. Alphonse A. Maffeo Collection of United States and Confederate States Provisionals, Stamps, Errors and Important Autographs

Dr. Maffeo was able to assemble a remarkable number of rare Postmaster's Provisionals, both United States and Confederate as well as two Inverted Jennys. Highlights consist of ten St. Louis Bears including a 20c greenish (11X3)- the finest of only three recorded off cover examples; a New Haven, Ct. cut square (8XU1); a rare Tuscalumbia, Ala. entire (6AXU1) and a Marion, Va. (55X2)- possibly the finest recorded unused example.

The Autograph section is centered around American history with emphasis on the Founding Fathers, plus other Revolutionary notables like Ethan and Ira Allen, the Marquis de La Fayette and Paul Revere. Then there are handwritten letters from the first 26 United States Presidents, many in duplicate, and nearly all with at least one written while in office. An interesting highlight for stamp collectors is a bidsheet for a stamp auction written by Franklin D. Roosevelt while Governor of New York. Also included are several First Lady autographs including a signature of Martha Washington. Finally, there are many prominent figures from the fields of Literature, Science and Medicine such as Louisa May Alcott, Albert Einstein, regarding his book on relativity, Alexander Fleming, mentioning penicillin, Edward Jenner, talking about his smallpox vaccine, and Florence Nightingale, among others.

Catalogues will be available after February 1. If you are not currently receiving our catalogues, click here for details.

(Click images to enlarge)
 
1     1918, 24¢ carmine rose & blue, center inverted (C3a), position 83


2     1918, 24¢ carmine rose & blue, center inverted (C3a), position 89


3     St. Louis, Mo., 20¢ black on greenish (11X3), type II position 3


4     New Haven, Ct., 5¢ red on white (8XU1)


5     Tuscumbia, Ala., 1861, 3¢ dull red on buff (6AXU1)


6     Marion, Va., 1861, 10¢ black (55X2)


7     F.D.R. signed bidsheet for a stamp auction


8     J.F.K handwritten letter while in office


9     George Washington handwritten letter while in office


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Matthew Bennett International / HA Harmers Auctions SA Results of 5-6 December Auctions Benefit from Serious Interest at “MonacoPhil 2006”

The Gavin Fryer Large Gold Medal collection of European Letter Rates, 1840-1871, and Reuben A. Ramkissoon Large Gold Medal collection of Trinidad and Tobago, as well as the All World auction, were on public view at Matthew Bennett International’s Stand at the prestigious MonacoPhil 2006 Exhibition on 1­-3 December, which attracted the top collectors from Europe and other parts of the world. The interest shown there already indicated that there would be intense competition for many of the items which would come under the hammer a few days later in Zurich.

The auction of the Gavin Fryer collection was held on the evening of the 5th. Of the postal history from twenty countries in the auction, which included some of the top covers known for each respective country, Great Britain, Netherlands, Belgium, and France truly sparkled, with many new records being set. The 1841 folded letter from London to Brussels sold for SF55,000 (Estimate SF40,000-50,000). One of the many interesting features of the collection was the interaction and history of the relations of the various postal systems. This was highlighted by the 1855 folded letter sheet from Haarlem to Gent, which was forwarded to Cologne, and consequently was franked with the first issue of the Netherlands and the 3rd issue of Belgium. Estimated at SF30,000-40,000, it was eventually knocked down to a room bidder at SF70,000. The magnificent Belgium first issue cover with eight examples of the “Epaulettes” 10c soared to SF67,500 (Estimate SF40,000-50,000), while the France Ceres 40c strip of four on cover to Nice (then part of Sardinia) went to a phone bidder for SF25,000 (Estimate SF15,000-20,000). A lovely large-margined “Basle Dove” on a neat local letter found a buyer prepared to pay for top quality at SF32,5000.

The following morning was the All World Auction, which featured classic British Empire. One of the most important Sarawak-Straits Settlements covers recorded was originally purchased for the “Kuching” collection in the Robert Emerson sale in 1938. It is registered to the U.S.A. in 1887 and bears the 1875 2c mauve on lilac pair and single with Straits 8c and 10c pair. It was sold to a room bidder at SF37,500 (Estimate SF30,000-40,000). The Western Australia 1864-79 2d mauve error of color realized SF17,000 (SF10,000-15,000).

The trio of specialized auctions concluded on the Wednesday afternoon with the Reuben A. Ramkissoon collection of Trinidad and Tobago. It again confirmed the strong market for postal history and anything rare and unusual. A few examples follow. The Lady McLeod on cover brought SF32,500 (Estimate SF20,000-30,000), and the unique example of the straight-line “Tabago” handstamp from the French Occupation period on 1778 entire letter realized SF23,000 (Estimate SF10,000-15,000). Only two complete sets of the seven values surcharged “9d” for the 1891 visit of the Duke of York are believed to exist. At SF21,000 (Estimate SF12,500-15,00), this realization far exceeded the price of the other set sold in the Sir John Marriott sale. Finally, the exquisite group of sixteen essays and proofs of the 1898 Columbus issue were offered together as a group and finished at SF27,000 (Estimate SF11,300-16,200).

(Click images to enlarge)
 
6     Lot 6
    Great Britain: 1841 entire from London to Brussels bearing eight examples of the 2d blue prepaying the 1s4d for ¼ ounce rate, charged "10" decimes). Estimate SF40,000 - SF50,000
Realized SF55,000


38     Lot 38
    1855 entire from Haarlem to Gent redirected to Cologne bearing Netherlands 10c pair for the 20 cents rate to Belgium, in combination with Belgium 10c and 20c for the 30 centimes forwarding to Germany. Estimate SF30,000 - SF40,000       Realized SF70,000


56     Lot 56
    Belgium: 1849 10c largest known franking (8 examples)on 1850 cover from Charleroi to Mons. Estimate SF40,000 - SF50,000.
Realized SF67,500


79     Lot 79
    France: 1849-50 40c strip of 4, the 1fr 60 ratee for 7.5-10 grams from Lyon to Nice within the Kingdom of Sardinia sent on 18 December 1850. Estimate SF15,000 - SF20,000
Realized SF25,000


99     Lot 99
    Switzerland: 1845 Basle Dove 2nd printing 2½ rp, used on 24 April 1850. A superlative example. Estimate SF30,000 - SF35,000
Realized SF32,500


1025     Lot 1025
    Sarawak: 1887 registered envelope to New York bearing 1875 2c pair and single in combination with Straits Settlements 8c and 10c (2). Estimate SF30,000 - SF40,000
Realized SF37,500


1164     Lot 1164
    Western Australia: 1864 2d error of colour, mauve instead of yellow, unused.
Estimate SF10,000 - SF15,000
Realized SF17,000


2026     Lot 2026
    Trinidad: Lady McCleod, four margins including part of stamp at right, cancelled by manuscript on 23 Feb. 1848 entire letter from Port-of-Prince to San Fernando. Signed by Bloch. Estimate SF20,000 - SF30,000
Realized SF32,500


2177     Lot 2177
    ½d to 5s, locally surcharged "9d", complete stamp set of seven values. Believed to be one of only two complete sets remaining in private hands. Estimate SF12,500 - SF15,000
Realized SF21,000


2188     Lot 2188
1898 Columbus anniversary issue, the assembly of original artwork and proofs. Lots 2188-2204 were combined and sold as one lot.
Realized SF27,000


2326     Lot 2326
    Tobago: "Tabago" straight-line handstamp on 1787 entire from Tobago to Edinburgh during the French period, the only recorded example. Estimate SF10,000 - SF15,000
Realized SF23,000


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Fierce Bidding Set the Stage for Record-Setting Prices

With the lively presence of internet bidders who can now bid in “real time” along with floor and phone bidders, the competition for our auctions of November 10 and 11, was intense. Philatelists vied for the unusual items from the specialized holdings of Thomas F. Allen, David Watt and Eliot Landau as well as for the incredible array of gem United States mint stamps in the David W. Gorham Collection. Equally popular were the stamps and postal history of Canada and Provinces along with the mint and used stamps and covers in our Public Auction #309.

To learn more regarding the current state of the stamp market, please read on. Click Here for a complete listing of the prices realized.

(Click images to enlarge)
 
107     Lot 107
   15c black (77) and 30c orange (71) on cover, Extremely Fine, Estimate $5,000-$7,500
Realized $21,850


190     Lot 190
o    90c carmine & black, Re-issue (132), right stamp with small repaired perf, Fine, Catalogue Value $30,000
Realized $32,200


213     Lot 213
   5c blue, imperf (315 AV), Extremely Fine, Catalogue Value $8,000+
Realized $20,700


1178     Lot 1178
o    12c black, Z. grill (85E), Extremely Fine, Catalogue Value $2,200
Realized $25,300


1203     Lot 1203
   12c green (117), Superb, Catalogue Value $2,600
Realized $32,200


2015     Lot 2015
   12d black (3), Extremely Fine, Catalogue Value $55,000
Realized $103,500


2046     Lot 2046
   10d blue (7) on cover, Extremely Fine, Estimate $15,000- $20,000
Realized $27,600


3017     Lot 3017
   5c brick red (27), Very Fine, Catalogue Value $30,000
Realized $74,750


3062     Lot 3062
   12c black (107), Superb, Catalogue Value $5,000
Realized $24,150


3078     Lot 3078
   90c carmine & black (122), Extremely Fine, Catalogue Value $12,000
Realized $97,750


3139     Lot 3139
   30c orange brown (217), Superb, Catalogue Value $1,500
Realized $17,250


3169     Lot 3169
   2c carmine lake, type I (249), Superb, Catalogue Value $525
Realized $18,400


3204     Lot 3204
   4c Pan-American (296a), Extremely Fine, Catalogue Value $35,000
Realized $83,375


3306     Lot 3306
   3c violet coil ( 445), Superb, Catalogue Value $2,800
Realized $16,675


3330     Lot 3330
   30c orange red (476A), Extremely Fine, Catalogue Value $9,000 for Fine
Realized $32,200


3378     Lot 3378
   10c blue (E4), Superb jumbo, Catalogue Value $2,100
Realized $19,550


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National Postal Museum Deaccessioned U.S. Revenue Stamps - Part Two


Part Two, while also including many Scott-listed stamps in unlisted formats, such as full panes, imperforates and specimens, will also feature a large number of mint non-Scott “Taxpaid” revenues, nearly all of which had previously been known only used, and including many not listed in the Springer's Handbook Of North American Cinderella Stamps. Most of these will be offered in complete panes or in hither to unencountered quantities, many of 1,000 or more. In all, the sale will offer more than 1,000 different varieties and a total of over 5,000,000 stamps.

(Click images to enlarge)
 
NPM1     1949 $4 Wine (RE175), mint block of four, the only recorded block. Also offered: 21 single lots.


NPM2     1954 $30-$500 Documentaries (R679-683), booklet panes of four. Also offered: the five values, each in a complete booklet.


NPM3     1940 $1-$20 Stock Transfer (RD79-85 var.), unfinished imperforates without overprint. Also offered: pairs, blocks, centerline blocks and a balance.


NPM4     Twenty different Wine stamps in large multiples with handstamped "Specimen" overprint.


NPM5     1940 $1/$20 Stock Transfer imperforate (RD67-78, 80-85 var.), 10 sets of pairs, three sets of blocks of 4, a block of 10 of the $20, and a balance.


NPM6     1940 Red Documentaries, imperf pairs to the $5, only 13 each of the $2, $4 & $5 exist.


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Matthew Bennett International to Auction the Wm. Brian Little Collection of United States Stamps and Plate Blocks

Matthew Bennett International is pleased to announce the upcoming auction of the Wm. Brian Little Collection of United States Stamps and Plate Blocks including Possessions.

The unused collection contains many rare and highly sought after stamps and plate blocks of the United States. It includes classic stamps with examples of the 1851-57 5c and 1857-61 5c brick red type I both with original gum, 1861 Premiere Gravure Issue, 1875-80 Special Printings with 1875 2c and 1880 3c and 2c scarlet vermilion, 1915 Rotary Press Coil Stamp 2c type I (Scott 449) line pair never hinged, and an example of the famous C3a inverted “Jenny”. The plate blocks feature issues from the Banknotes, a fine array of Bureau Printings to extensive Washington-Franklin issues. These include 1873 6c, 1890-93 30c block (never hinged), 1893 Columbian 50c, 1898 Trans-Mississippi $1, 1913 Pan-Pacific 10c orange and 10c perf 10, 1912 $1, 1913 50c, 1915 $1, and 1916-17 $1.

The auction will be held in conjunction with Part Two of the Smithsonian Museum’s deaccessioned mint revenues in the early Fall.

(Click images to enlarge)
 
Little1     1914, 50c violet (421) mint plate block of six with full top selvage, never hinged


Little2     1873, 6c dull pink (159) mint plate block of 14 showing number 18 with continental imprint


Little3     1856, 5c red brown (12) four margins, original gum


Little4     1861, 5c brown, First Design (57) One of only about a dozen unused examples recorded in sound condition


Little5     1880, 2c scarlet vermilion, Special Printing (203) One of only about 20 recorded examples


Little6     1915, 2c red type I, rotary coil (449) joint line pair, full o.g., never hinged


Little7     1918, 24c inverted "Jenny" (C3a) position 48


Little8     1893, Columbian pale aniline rose bottom imprint plate strip of 4


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Washington 2006

Matthew Bennett International is a proud exhibitor at the long-anticipated and highly esteemed World Philatelic Exhibition Washington 2006, to be held at the Washington, DC Convention Center from May 27 - June 3, 2006. In addition to exhibiting at booth #1414, Matthew Bennett was chosen as an official auctioneer for this incredible event.

Matthew Bennett's auction will be held on Tuesday, May 30 at 11 a.m. and the lots will be on view beginning on Saturday, May 27. In addition, there will be specialized stamps and covers available for private purchase at the booth. Our philatelic experts will also be on hand throughout the show to answer questions, and to meet with our numerous long-time customers.

More than 200 stamp vendors from over 15 countries will be exhibiting, and tens of millions worth of philatelic items are expected to be on display and for sale on the show floor. Years in the planning, this United States-based international show will give unlimited opportunity to not only add new and unusual items to your collection, but perhaps more importantly, to meet, share and learn with stamp aficionados from all over the globe.

We are excited about this once-in-ten-years opportunity to meet and greet our philatelic community. We are personally looking forward to seeing many of you at Washington 2006!

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Zurich Asia 18 March 2006 Auction Sale Report

It was an active 12˝ hour day in the Habour Room of the Ritz Carlton with 125 room bidders, as well as six agents representing collectors from all over the world. Because of the importance of the material many famous collectors attended the auction in person. In addition, there were more than twenty telephone bidders. By the time the auction ended at 10:30pm, the sale had realized HK$20,755,373.

The complete sheets of the Large Dragon imperforate proofs without extra circle 1 candarin and 3 candarins realized HK$437,000 and HK$368,000 respectively. The magnificent set of three values of the Large Dragon imperforate proofs on vertically laid paper, which were last offered in the 1996 Beckeman Sale, broug