The Broken (or "Cracked") Plate
This variety was the result of the printer, Dr. Taylor, having dropped the glass negative and its breaking into two parts. Dr. Taylor was fortunately able to fit the two pieces of glass together and carry on with the printing. It is estimated that he printed between 32 and 50 sheets after repairing the plate, and five stamps (positions 6-10) in each sheet show a whitish line where the plate was broken and pieced together. Consequently no more than 250 examples of this variety can exist.
Unused
unused 3d. pale blue on blue, position additionally showing central "moustache hair" flaw, extremely fine and fresh with much original gum. A great rarity mint. B.P.A. Certificate (1993). Photo in colour
Details
unused 3d. pale blue on blue, position additionally showing central "moustache hair" flaw, extremely fine and fresh with much original gum. A great rarity mint. B.P.A. Certificate (1993). Photo in colour