Great Britain 1840 1d grey-black (moderate plate wear) Plate 1a, SG3.
A very fine four margin example lettered "NI" neatly cancelled by a red Maltese Cross and sent from London to Lydney, Gloucestershire.
Superb Charing Cross despatch mark for "MY 8.1840".
A scarce May date cover sent on the 3rd day of official usage preserved in exceptional condition without the usual creasing present for such early penny black covers.
GB Specialised Catalogue No: AS2tc.
Accompanied with a 2003 Royal Philatelic Society (RPS) Certificate of Authenticity.
SG Catalogue Value: From £5,000.
The first printing plate of the penny black was registered on 15 April 1840. As the plate had not been hardened it soon showed signs of wear. The plate was withdrawn due to the wear and extensive repairs were undertaken. The first printings prior to repairs are referred to as Plate 1a and the repaired state as Plate 1b.
