Lot 50004 – 1839 Treasury Competition Essays: James Chalmers 2d essay (type 3, Bates J) in red on white wove paper used as a seal on small wrapper

1839 Treasury Competition Essays: James Chalmers 2d essay (type 3, Bates J) in red on white wove paper, cut to shape and used as a seal on small wrapper, with the legend, “general post office/two pence” around edge and “Not exceeding/Two Ounce.” in centre with postmark “USED” and “DUNDEE / Oct. 7 39.” and the competition entry number “22290/39” in ink alongside. Fine and extremely rare, believed to be one of only three examples in private hands with a fourth in the Royal collection.

Provenance: “Durham” (Phillips 1993).