Status International - Sale 391

Papal States: 1867 Arms 3c black on GREEN glazed paper, UNISSUED. This stamp was prepared as part of the new 1867 series of 6 denominations 3c to 80c, but before they were issued it was decided to change the postal rates & introduce a new 2c value. This new 2c was then prepared in green & thus the 3c changed to grey/drab colour, & all sheets of the 3c green were then officially burned, only couple single stamps retained in archives, Fresh UN (it was never gummed), pressed diag crease & expertly recoloured surface rubbing etc, but beautiful bright colour & fantastic appearance. SG 37a cat £250,000 = A$480,000, Sass 21 cat €240,000 = A$400,000 specifically for this condition as per footnote (cat €600,000 = A$1,000,000 for perfect condition). Only 7 examples have ever been recorded, most of which are faulty. This is the rarest non-error stamp of Italian States & an important classic rarity of the world. 1978 Oliva, 1992 Dr Enzo Diena AIEP & 2023 Ceremuga photo certs. (P)
Estimate A$70000