Lot 10209 – The Monocolour IssuesEarly in 1909 for reasons of economy

The Monocolour Issues

Early in 1909 for reasons of economy the changing of all bi-coloured values to monocolour was being seriously considered, this was with particular reference to the 1 1/2d. ,2d. and 4d. as having the lowest values and the largest sales. The Diminished relevance of fiscal demands now allowed the use of single fugitive inks, thus admitting a wide range of colours.

Accordingly colour trials were requested, and on the 19th March De La Rue submitted 28 examples of each value printed in Mono colour, to test both the appearance and also the adaptability of the existing bi-coloured designs.

1903c. 1 1/2d. die proof from the De La Rue Archives in black with un-cleared surround on glazed card (90 x 60mm.), endorsed “Cancelled” in manuscript and initialled in pencil; very rare. Cat £5,500.