A horizontal imperforate between pair of China's 1885 Small Dragon 1 candarin stamp has seen a new record price in Hong Kong.
 The 1885 Small Dragons are some of China's first stamps, issued following the Large Dragon issue of 1878 |
The stamp was the top-seller of Zurich Asia's September 29 auction, selling at $119,171 - a new record for a pair of the rare stamp.
The example at auction is well centred, in fresh mint condition with much of its original gum. It boasts a bright colour, but is slightly affected by some oxidisation on the right stamp. It is one of just two recorded pairs.
Also setting a record price was a yellow-green block of 1897 Dowager redrawn printing 2 cents on 2 candarins block of four, which sold for $89,368. There are only around ten remaining pairs of this variety, with this example being the only block of four in existence.
An 1897 Small Figures 2 cents on 3 candarins double surcharge achieved another record price of $52,137. This is the finest of three recorded examples.
Paul Fraser Collectibles has a unique block of four Hong Kong 96c Olive-Bistre stamps for sale - a legendary philatelic item described as the jewel of Hong Kong philately.
