An extremely rare original gum example of the 1857-58 Imperial 10k stamp will headline the Russian: Imperial, Soviet, Zemstvo & Poland section of David Feldman's Geneva Autumn Auction Series, which runs from September 23 to October 2.
 There are very few original gum examples of Russia's first stamp surviving |
The sale also incorporates Ottoman Empire/Turkey, British Empire, France, and Belgium stamps.
The 10 kopek stamp, originating from Russia's very first issue and only recently discovered, is expected to auction for $26,600.
Aside from this specimen, there are only two or three examples of this stamp known with full original gum, as well as the famous pair in the Popov Museum.
The stamp, printed from plate II, is in mint condition. It bears a slight hinge remainder, with its margins clear of the framelines all around, despite being narrow on two sides.
Unlike others of this issue, it shows no repairs or faults, as proved by a meticulous computer analysis supplied by the auction house.
 The envelope is rated in Lobachevskiy's stationary catalogue as unique |
Valued at $13,300 is an 1848-1849 10k Grey Black envelope which, according to foremost expeert Zbigniew Mikulski, is one of the great Imperial stationary rarities.
The envelope bears the 2nd watermark, value imprint type IV stamp, which is used with an official seal label of the Governor of Tobolsk and addressed to Wolkowysk.
As Russia's economy continues to grow, so does interest in stamp collecting, with many of the country's middle-class finding themselves with a larger disposable income. In July, a block of four 18k stamps from Russia's 1925 definitives issue led a Cherrystone auction at $28,000.
Among Great Britain stamps offered at David Feldman is the remarkable Wallace Document, which contains the earliest known Penny Black.
Paul Fraser Collectibles offers the finest rare stamps for sale - contact us on +44 (0)117 933 9500 or info@paulfrasercollectibles.com for more information.
