Great Britain 1883 2s6d lilac (blued paper) Plate 1, SG175var.
An exceptionally fine and fresh unused, with original gum, imperforate imprimatur lettered 'BC'.
Very rare being one of only 24 possible examples taken from the first approved printing sheet.
SG Catalogue Value: £5,000.
The blued paper examples of the 2s 6d lilac are much rarer than those on white paper. This is due to the initial use of a chemical solution containing prussian blue in paper for the first printings.
This was intended to make forgeries more difficult due to the increased challenge in replicating the specially treated paper. Unfortunately, this chemical treatment over time could result in discolouration and deterioration in the paper. As a result, it was decided to transition back to white paper usage meaning the blued paper examples are much rarer and sought after.
