Great Britain 1840 1d grey-black Plate 1a, SG3.
A very fine and fresh four margin unused example with large part original gum, lettered "PK" and showing moderate plate wear.
There is the lightest of horizontal bends at top not visible from the face of the stamp.
A very presentable example of this rare stamp from the first printing plate of the world's first postage stamp.
GB Specialised Catalogue No: AS2.
Accompanied with a 2001 British Philatelic Association (BPA) Certificate of Authenticity.
SG Catalogue Value: £18,500.
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 The plate was withdrawn due to the wear and extensive repairs were undertaken.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.
