Auction 333-341 Europe & Overseas Americas (North, Central & South America) - Day 1

1863, Coat of Arms Medio Real Blue: A fantastic collection of thirty-two covers, all single frankings of the Costa Rica First Issue ½ r. blue, several early printings in deep-blue and a good range of shades throughout. One example cancelled by a fine and clear 'CARTAGO' straight-line handstamp in black and one by the 'CARTAGO' framed oval also in black. One example cancelled by the oval 'LIBERIA' in black and another wrapper which has a 'Liberia' embossed crest is cancelled by a small black circular mute handstamp (three recorded - two where in the Meyer collection). Two covers have a single stroke pen manuscript cancel. Twenty-six are cancelled by a "1" in bars obliterator, of which nineteen covers have the addition of the framed oval 'CARTAGO' handstamp alongside, being the originating post office. With the exception of three covers, all are sent to San José. Of the three not to San José, two are sent to Puntarenas and one to Cartago. Condition is mixed in places with a number that have the odd fault or imperfection and there are a quantity that are soiled or have some minor staining, as might be expected. Several are fine examples especially those with the handstamp town oval handstamps and one stamp has the marginal imprint in the margin below. An extremely rare accumulation and seldom seen in any quantity. Ex the Brian Moorhouse estate. Note: Twenty-three of the covers are addressed to; 'Jesús Jiménez' (1823 to 1897) who served as President of Costa Rica between 1863 and 1866 and again during 1868 to 1870. Four of those address Jiménez also as; 'President of the Republic'. One of the covers not sent to Jiménez, is addressed to 'Doctor José M. Castro', who coincidentally was also President of Costa Rica on two occasions between 1848 and 1849, and then between 1866 to 1868.  Which means that Jesús Jiménez not only preceded Castro in 1866, he also succeeded him in 1868. Interestingly, the history books tell us that although Jiménez democratically passed his presidency to José Castro at the end of his mandate in 1866, Castro was unable to finish his term due to a Military Coup in 1868. That coup passed the Presidency to Jesús Jiménez, who in turn was also unable to complete his term of office due to another Military Coup in 1870.