Great Britain 1840 2d Blue and 1d Black "Turned" Cover, SG2, SG5

An exceptional "turned" cover originally sent from Burton-on-Trent to Derby, prepaid with a four-margin 2d Blue Plate 1, tied by a neat red Maltese Cross, with matching Burton-on-Trent circular date stamp on reverse for 'NO.12.1840'. The front also bears a red "Too Late" handstamp and a Derby arrival circular date stamp for the 13th.

Upon arrival, the cover was turned and re-directed back to Burton-on-Trent, this time prepaid with a close to large four-margin 1d Black Plate 5 vertical pair, also neatly tied by red Maltese Crosses, with a Derby circular date stamp below for 'NO.13.1840'.

Some minor peripheral wear as typical for a reused item of this age, but overall in very fine condition with rare franking and excellent postal history value.

A remarkable and striking exhibition-quality piece, folds open beautifully for display.