Lot #73: 6 Pence Proof Examples of 10 Variants Prince Edward Isle Canada Postage Stamps

This collection of 10 color variants was printed in the early 1940s. Dealer Kasimir Bileski recounts the history and how he came about them. The 10 colors are very rare and about unknown.Kasimir Bileski Notes: PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND PROOFSVery few of the original 1861-1872 proofs exist and variety even for these is limited as compared to other B. N. A. sections. In 1893 various die and plate reprints were made, used to illustrate an article in the London Philatelist for January 1893. The original dies and plates were in the possession of the Royal Philatelic Society.The reprints are sought after by B. N. A. specialists and command good prices, particularly the die proofs. It is to be noted that amongst these reprints there was not a single 6d proof in any form. The original 6d die had vanished. This 6d die was not found till the early 1940's. It was wartime in England and it was decided to print a number of 6d die proofs in several colors and put such to good use in drives to raise funds for the British Red Cross. This was done and then the original die was turned over to the Royal Philatelic Society. What was left was acquired many years later by the world famous H. R. Harmer auction firm. In 1962 they sent out some in the form of a season's greeting card. Remainder were put away until their existence was called to my attention and I purchased all that were left in May 1971. The Essay Proof Catalog lists several colors and puts a value of $3.00 each on them. The catalog states: "They are beautifully produced and make nice collateral material". They are indeed beautifully produced. Careful die sunk printing one by one, plus fine brilliant inks all result in most attractive die proofs. They are reprints, but from the original die, and by the way, not a single original die proof of the 6d value exists.K. Bileski Unless otherwise noted, all lots are shipped within North America at $5 per lot.