TIw Revealer

TIw Revealer

e1Re Ph,IAcehc: As.ocJAe",n

QUARTERLY JOURNAL OF THE EIRE PHILATELIC ASSOCIATION

Random Notes Auction. Number 41 Unusual Coil Crash Covers Irish Definitive Varieties (Conc!.) Postal Stationery Notes

CRASH COVERS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

20 22 22 23 23 25

Unwmk Decimal Definitives - Additional Data 26 Literature Notes 27 Priestley Wins Field Award 27 Compulsory Registration 28 The Identifier is Back 29 5d Photogravure Booklet Stamps (Concl.) 29

The Revealer October, 1977

THE REVEALER WHOLE NO. 128 OCTOBER, 1977

Published quarterly by the Eire Philatelic Association at $5.00 per year, which includes membership and all the privileges of the association.

STAFF Editor: Associate Editor: John J . Blessington 4302 St. Clair Ave.

Joseph E . Foley P.O. Box 31057

Studio City, Cal. 01694 USA Aurora, Col. 80011 USA

Revealer Back Issues: John A. Keough

P .O.Box5 Suffern, N.Y. 01901 USA

Back issues of The Revealer are available through John Keough at $1.00 each for members and $1.25 each for non-members, plus postage and handling.

EIRE PHILATELIC ASSOCIATION Affiliate No. 21 - The American Philatelic Society

Affiliated Member - The British Philatelic Federation

- OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS -

President: Auction Manager: Garvin F . Lohman Bruce C. Weinman Apt. 3, 1541 Sacramento St. Historian: San Francisco, Cal. 94109 USA William P . Hickey

Vice Presidents: 60 Georgia Avenue James J. Brady Providence, R.I., 20905 USA 55 Lockwood St. Committee on Forged and Newark, N.J. 07105 USA Bogus Material: Michael H. Priestly Robert Gray (Chairman) 9 Rosebank Road 831 San Pablo Drive Edinburgh EH5 3QW, Scotland Hemet, Cal. 92343 USA

Secretary-Treasurer: Members: Michael M. Lenane F. E. Dixon 1265 So. Bates J. E. Foley Birmingham, Mich. 48009 USA V. A. Linnell

Treasurer (Sterling Area): Directors~

Michael P. Giffney Director-at-Large: 16 Gracepark Heights B. B. Zellers Drumcondra Eastern North America: Dublin 9, Ireland William T. McCaw

Librarian: Central North America : John J. Blessington Edward T. Sullivan

E.P.A. Trading Post: Western North America: Bruce C. Weinman James J. Lawless P.O. Box 274 Overseas: Cedar Grove, N.J. 07009 USA Padraig 0 Mathuna

A.P .S. Representative: Immediate Past President: J. E. Foley Preston A. Pope

REVEALER ADVERTISING All advertising should be sent to the Editor along with a

check payable to the Eire Philatelic Association at least 6 weeks prior to the next issue.

Size of Ad Full Page Half Page

Quarter Page Eighth Page

ADVERTISING RATES

One Insertion $40.00

30.00 20.00 10.00

Yearly Rate (4) $140.00

100.00 70.00 35.00

Incoming President's Message

I wish to thank all the members of the Eire Philatelic Association for the honor of being elected President of our Association. You have my utmost assurance that I will continue the excellent work performed by the many who have given of their time and efforts in making our Association the success it is.

The success of our Association is the result of the work of many rather than just a few. May I call upon all our members to come forth with their suggestions and offers of service. Let me hear from you.

The heart of the E.P.A. is The Revealer and of course the life blood of our journal is the contribution of notes and articles. I strongly urge you to share your knowledge and new finds with all of us through The Revealer.

The growth of the E.P .A. will be one of my major goals during the next two years. I would like to see the membership reach the 1,000 mark before I leave office. This isn't as difficult as it seems ... after all, if each member signs up one new member we will be well over the goal. For your convenience a copy of our new brochure and application blank has been enclosed in your copy of The Revealer. More are available from Mike Lenane on request.

Before closing, I wish to take this opportunity to express the appreciation of the Board of Directors and the membership to you, Preston, for the excellent service you have given our, Association. The newly installed Board and I, personally, will continue to benefit from your experience and counsel as immediate past presdient.

Again, thank you for the honor you have bestowed upon me in electing me your President. I pledge to do everything possible to serve the Eire Philatelic Association to the very best of my ability.

Garvin F . Lohman

Outgoing President's message

It is imperative that all good things must come to an end. I say this because there has truly been no greater experience for me than to have served as your President for the past two years, a term which has gone by so very quickly.

The world of E.P.A. is made up of so many talented and devoted people, which has been most helpful in reducing my workload. It is also these same people who have been instrumental in making our me~ership grow, not only in numbers, but also in stature within the philatelic community.

My sincerest thanks and appreciation to all the appointed and elected officers, directors and members, who so willingly gave their time, effort and support during my term in office. Special thanks are due our new Revealer editor and our new Secretary-Steasurer, who so willingly accepted their new assignments when called upon. I ask the membership to join me in continuing to give them your wholehearted support and coopration.

I am most pleased to announce that the Overprint Identifier is once again in prodUction, under the E.P.A. copyright, and will be available for shipping to members at just about the time you will be reading this. The cost to members will be $3,25, to non-members $5.00 plus postage. Members should place their orders with Ed Ryan (see Special Offers).

As my last official act before leaving office, it is my pleasure to announce the results of the E .P.A. elections. The folio wing were elected to serve for the next two years :

October, 1977 The Revealer Page 19

President - Garvin F. Lohman Vice Presidents - J ames J. Brady

Michael H. Priestly Director-at-Large - B. B. Zellers Directors

Eastern North America - William T. McCaw Central North America - Edward T. Sullivan Western North America - James J. Lawless Overseas - Padraig 0 Mathuna

Should any of you be able to help the E.P.A., in any way, write and offer your services to our new President. I extend my sincerest best wishes and continuing support to Garvin and feel sure that his term in office will be most successful.

Best wishes to all Preston A. Pope

Secretary's Report

August 31, 1977 Having been exposed to the Secretary-Treasurer's position for three

months, I am now aware of some of the time-consuming problems Inherent In this position . My personal thanks go to John Blesslngton for the many years of fine service as Secretary-Treasurer he has given to this organization, and congratulations on his appointment as editor of The Revealer.

We experienced a problem In forwarding the dues renewal envelopes to our members In the United States and Canada and those Overseas. If you have not, as yet, paid your dues for our fiscal year ending August 31, 1978, please do It today. Those In the United States and Canada should forward dues directly to the Secretary-Treasurer and those Overseas Should remit to Mlchael Glffney. Our thanks are extended to those who Included an additional donation to the Association with their dues remittance.

With the help of MiJry Lou Custer and Bill Murphy we have a new membership list, curl'ent through July, 19n. Members may obtain a copy by sending $1.00to the Secretary-Treasurer with their request for a copy.

NEW MEMBERS 1276 KENNEDY, JOHN W., 1302 Forestdale Ct., Schaumburg, 111 . 60193 12n SANDERS, JOEL L. Wlndover Apts. No. 162,2304 W. Gordon Ave.,

Albany, Ga. 31707 1278 STADTHERR, LEON G., P.O. Box !it, Hopklns, Mlnn. 55343 1279 PAXSON, THOMAS, 3044 W. 119th St., Merrlonette Park, 111.60655 1280 FAUCON, ARTHUR, 2419 S. 16th St., Sprlngfleld, 111.62703 1281 HUMKE, RICHARD H., 2415 Rudy Lane, Loulsvllle, Ky. 40207 1282 CONNERY, THOMAS F., 2200 Cherry Lane, Apt. 301, Lisle, 111.60532 1283 PETERSON, VICTOR E. 2312 Sooke Rd ., Victoria, B.C., Canada

V9B 1X5

RESIGNED Mrs. Charles Casper, Mrs. Wllllam Hayward, John Schaab

MEMBERSHIP STATUS Members As of May 30, 1977 559

New Members 8 Resigned 3 5

Members asof August 31, 19n 564

From The Editor's Desk

The response to the editorial in the July Revealer although not overwhelming was fruitful. Two or three prospective contributors have come forward and you will be reading articles by them in futUre issues. There are many areas of Irish philately that can be covered and we still need help so let me hear from you about your interests. In line with this, we are happy to welcome Brian Warren of Dublin to the fold as a first time contributor. His article advances the information discovered concerning the unwatermarked definitives.

Our "HELP WANTED" call in the July issue for an advertising manager has been heard and we hope to be able to add a new name to the staff by the time the January issue goes to press.

You will note that John McManus' name is missing from the masthead in this issue. For personal reasons, John has resigned from the E.P.A. We wish to thank him for the many fine covers he produced for The Revealer as the Art Director. His talents will be greatly missed.

+ + + E.P.A. member Kathleen A. Berry has been named co

editor of "COROS Chronicle," journal of the Collectors of Religion on Stamps. Katy is an avid exhibitor and has done well with her exhibit of religion on Irish stamps. She is the author, with the late WaIler A. Sager, of the book "Christmas on Stamps." .

+ + + Dealer-Member John R. Smallman sends a note to inform

all members that he has opened a small stamp shop in the historic Cape Breton village of Baddeck, Nova Scotia, Canada. He invites any E.P.A. members in the neighborhood to drop in for a visit. Since he specializes in the stamps of Ireland, such a visit should prove interesting.

+ + + My apologies, but some typographical errors slipped into

the article "Irish Stamps & Inflation" in the July Revealer. In table 1, the 1975 value of Scott No. lOA should read $12.50 instead of $72.50. Also in the bottom row of this table, the heading should be "Total -;- C.P.1. and not "Total - C.P .I." In figure 2 the vertical legend should be "Scott Cat. Val. + C.P.I. instead of "Scott Cat. Val. - C.P'!."

+ + + Due to the low number of responses to the item concerning

"Numeral Cancellations" in the April '77 Revealer (p. 1133), it appears that there is not sufficient interest to make this project feasible. Also, there apparently are no overseas members interested in taking on liaison with the B.P.O. Record Department.

+ + + Associate Editor Joe Foley has asked us to note that his

article "Enough is Enough" concerning the Stamp a overprint that appeared in the April issue was strictly his own opinion and not intended to be taken as the position of either the E.P.A. or The Revealer. While Joe's opinion remains unchanged, he prefers not to consume any further space in The Revealer on the issue.

+ + + In "Postal Stationery Notes" is a listing of Registration

Envelopes issued since 1966. The recent Feldman listing of these has been Simplified so much that it is difficult to use for someone striving for completion. Our listing is set up as an addendum to the Higgins and Gage Catalog, Section 9, First Edition 1968. H & G used the E.P.A. listing, first published in The Revealer (Supplement No. 13, Oct.-Nov. 1963), as a base for their catalog. Joe Foley welcomes correspondence regarding postal stationery, particularly that which records new information and or varieties.

+ + + While attending the A.P .S. Convention in San Francisco the

home of one of our members was burglarized. The burglary occurred sometime between August 25th and 29th. The philatelic material stolen was contained in a large safe which the thieves took with -them. Below is a partial list of the Irish philatelic material stolen with the safe:

1. Overprints in blocks of four, complete except two issues. 2. Controls complete in blocks of 6 and strips of 3 3. Controls complete in singles 4. Stockbook full of coils (accumulation)


5. Collection of the errors on the basic stamps 6. Large box full of postal history material There is evidence indicating that the thieves were not after

stamps and therefore would likely dump the material on the market unwittingly. Anyone suspecting the whereabouts of the above material or having any information should contact the Police Department, Riverside, California.

+ + + The E.P.A. has acquired 15 copies of the "Hibernian

Specialized Catalog of the Stamps of Ireland, 1922-1972" which are available from Ed Ryan at wholesale cost. The $8.00 retail book may be purchased, by members only, for $5.00, postpaid. Although only through 1972, it is still an excellent reference book until a later issue appears. All stamps are listed by Stanley Gibbons, Scott, Michel, Yvert and Zumstein numbers. .

Letters to the r::::!~~~"'-.a-._ ....

15 Granite Hall. Rosmeen Gardens. DUN LAOGHAIRE. Co. Dublin. Ireland

20th August 1977

Dear Sir.

Editor

In answer to John Lyall's query re. 5p coli variety In the April 1977 edition of The Reve.ler the following notes should be of help.

The decimal coli stamps were printed and reeled In a continuous form . The cylinders contain 2~ spaces for stamps and one revolution of a set of cylinders produces a sheet of stamps 10 across by 204 down. There are thus ten different rolls. Each strip within any particular roll will re· occur every eight multlvalue strip. I.e. 204 divided by the 3 stamps In a strip equal 8.

The particular variety noted by Mr. Lyall. once found In a roll (one chance In 10). will be found every eight strip. In the examples which I have seen the variety has only been found on 5p coils with matt gum. Has eny member seen It on the shiny gum? If not. this might Indicate a change In cylinder although this Is doubtful.

Yours sincerely. Brlan Warren

+ + + 1st July. 1977

Dear Sir. It may Interest your readers to learn of an Item which we believe to

be hitherto unknown. We were recently shown the Irelend 19047·048 Air values handstamped

"SpeCimen". and believe this overprint was made by the printers Waterlow. poSSibly for distribution to V.I.P.s. Irish postal officials. other prospective customers - or whom?

As far as we know these are the only Irish stamps to be overprinted "Specimen". Could the fact that they were the first air mall stamps have anything to do with this? Why do no other I rlsh stamps exist with such an overprint - and why these?

A photocopy of the 6d Is enclosed. It may not be good enough for Illustration but will clearly show you an example.

Yours sincerely. Peter Colllns. Robson Lowe Limited

Random Notes

by F. E. Dixon

IRISH PHILATELIC SOCIETY A WARDS Irish material again dominated the annual competition. The

major award, the Dobbs Cup, went to Rev. J. Brennan for highvalue overprints, and two of the other section winners were Miss N. Wright (thematic) andF. E. Dixon (postal history).

HAT TAX Among some items recently given to me by Dr. Stafford

Johnson is an article written about 1922 by J ames P. O'Reilly on "The Revenue Stamps of Ireland." The list with it includes British as well as Irish issues and both embossed and adhesive stamps. The adhesives include

Hat Duty, Ireland 1786-1800, 6d oblong, vermillion. I have long been hunting for an example of such a stamp (on or off "cover") without success. Has anyone ever seen one?

IRELAND'S NATIONAL STAMP COLLECTION RepOSing in my files for many years and only recently re

found is a photograph of the eight cabinets, each with 22 doublesided glazed frames. The photograph was taken about 50 years ago, when the collection had grown to 23,000 items, more than double the number of the Duke of Leinster's bequest. REGISTRATION ENVELOPES

Envelopes with the latest registration stamp (38p deep green) were issued 30 May, less than two months after the associated increase in postal charges. The envelopes are allegedly "Size H" . What does this mean? When introduced in 1878 the size was 8x5 inches, and this was standard until decimalisation in 1971. The width then was reduced to 4% inches and this smaller size has been continued.

DUBLIN SPOON BACKSTAMP During the period of use of the "spoon" cancellations the

date stamps used on letters reaching Dublin were of the circular types without "DUBLIN". An exception just discovered is on a registered letter from Athlone to Waterford in March, 1856. The Dublin sorter applied a spoon with code 5, but struck it at the edge so that the 186 and bars did not appear.

AUCTION PRICES The realisations for Irish Postal History items continue the

upward trend. At a Robson Lowe sale in March a part entire of 1740 with circular framed SHIP/G.R/2 fetched £575 and a 1746 letter with DERRY and SHIP got £425. Another Derry Ship letter with the crown type, 1834, £ 230. A lot of handstruck Is and 2s of 1840-52, valued at £ 35, was knocked down at £185. An 1846 letter with the diamond-framed FROM/6 to 7/P.M. made the record price for the type of £46. The two known examples of the WARRENS PT SHIP LETTER sold for £ 750 and £ 720.

ELECTION RESUL·TS Congratulations to philatelist and numismatist Gerard

Brady on his election to Dail Eireann at the first attempt, topping the poll ahead of Richie Ryan, outgoing Minister for Finance.

1977 EUROPA STAMPS While pleasant at first glance, the "Europa" landscape

stamps are disappointing when scrutinized. The stupidly stock lettering and unaccented "Eire", are no worse than we are accustomed to. But where is the bright green verdure? The foreground of the lOp shows unkempt scrubland, and blob at lower left of the 12p may be a moss-covered rock or a gorse-infested


hillside. The photographers have obviously been taught to include a bit of foliage to frame the top of the picture, but neither understands the lesson. In the 12p the dead branch is inexcusable and there should be no sky between the foliage and the top. On the lOp the solitary twig protruding at left is wrong, and again one needs some dense greenery across the top.

DUN LAOGHAIRE SUMMER FESTIVAL EXHIBITION The function at the Royal Marine Hotel on 2-3 July was more

than a crowd of dealers' stands, there being very good displays . of local postal history and picture postcards. Particularly important were two cases of items loaned by the local Post Office with date stamps and seals and uniform accoutrements, evidence that material does still exist suitable for permanent display in a national postal museum. NEW GOVERNMENT

It is regrettable that the Department of Posts and Telegraphs should lose its independence and share its minister (Padraig Faulkner) with Transport and Power.

MEDAL I have found mention of a medal with the head of Peter

Purcell who was prominent as an operator of Mail Coaches in Ireland. However, the medal has nothing to do with that activity. He was prominent in the Royal Agricultural Society of Ireland founded in 1841. I.O.M.T.R.

For the benefit of those receiving covers with the special date stamp used 20-24th June, it should be recorded that the initials represent "International Organization for Motor Trades and Repairs." LITERATURE

"POSTAL HISTORY" (PHS Bull. No . 200) June-Aug. 1977 has another instalment of The Irish Post Office 1784-1830.

DECIMALISATION Regrettably the Irish Post Office has made the same error

as many other bodies alleging that the changes introduced on 25 July were part of "metrication." The correct word is "decimalisation." More happily, the new rates are in some cases cheaper than those they replace. Nothing has been done to remove the anomalies, e.g. it costs less to send a Christmas Card to New Zealand than to the house across the road. A 300g surface mail letter (by air in Europe) cost £1 but three of 100g each can be sent for only 78p. The principal sections of the new scales are: IRELAND AND BRITAIN

Letters up to 60g lOp Printed Papers up to 120g 8p 60 · 1000 131f2p 120 · lSOg lOp

each extra 500 31f2P each extra SOg 2p

Newspapers first 2000 5'12p Parcels uptolkg 40p each extra 200g 2p lto 3 kg 55p

3 to 5kg 67p 5to 10 kg l02p

OTHER 'COUNTRIES

Letters by air to Europe, Printed Papers surface mall elsewhere.

up to 109 IIp upto 109 6p 20· SOg 20p 20 . SOg 9p

SO · l00g 26p SO·lOOg 12p 100 · 2500 52p 100 · 2500 22p 2SO · 500g lOOp 2SO·500g 14p 500 · lkg 175p SOO ·lkg 65p

1 ·2kg 285p 1·2kg 90p each extra kg 45p

Airmail to outside Europe Letters up to 20g 17p

each extra 109 7p

Newspapers up to 109 IIp

each extra loQ 2p

CONTEMPORARY IRISH ART STAMP I think of Louis Le Brocquy as a great artist; but he is not

representative of Irish art, being influenced mainly by continental artists in his earlier work. And he knows nothing of stamp designing. And the choice of one isolated example of his "Heads" is stupid. It has little significance except in conjunction with all the others. SCOUTING AND GUIDING

Robert Ballagh does understand stamp designing, and his Simple sell balanced designs are excellent. It was a neat idea to have the girl and boy in silhouette, thereby sidestepping the problem of what colour to make the uniform. Whatever colour had been used would have annoyed some groups who wear others. SENATE ELECTIONS

Arthur Stokes has drawn attention to the envelopes used by the Universities for sending, by registered post, the ballot papers for postal voting. They are specially printed, with a printed substitute for the usual adhesive label, Dublin University having abbreviation DU and National University NU.

Meet Your President

Garvin Frederick Lohman was born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, on August 27, 1934. After elementary and high school education in Regina, Garvin moved to the West Coast where he attended the School of Architecture at the University of British Columbia. Home for Garvin for the past 13 years has been in San Francisco where he works as a Senior Electrical Designer. In 1971 Garvin married his charming and lovely wife, Janice.

Stamp collecting began in earnest at the age of ten. His active junior collecting years led to the winning of many philatelic awards including a junior grand award. Finally, the pursuit of the fairer sex led ~o the discontinuance of stamp collecting, until ten years ago, when Garvin was badly bitten by the collecting bug while visiting Ireland. The fascination of Irish history together with the fact Garvin is of Irish descent on his mother's side, strongly influenced his interest in Irish Philately. Like many of us, he considers himself a general collector of Ireland. Although Ireland is his first love, he also has sideline collections of Guatemala and the Small Queens of Canada.

Garvin served as President and all other positions in his Junior Club. He is past president of the California Collectors Club, a former director of the E .P.A., a member of the Collectors Club of San Francisco, the Collectors Club of New York, and belongs to many other stamp groups. His other interests are hiking, fishing and tennis.


EPA SALE NO. 41 CLOSING DATE - NOVEMBER 30, 1977

Send Bids To: Bruce C. Welnman, P.O. Box 274, Cedar Grove. New Jersev 07009

Lot No. DHcrlptlon Reserve 1. l'hd Due. wmk "e". vert pr, letters In DUE not clear. NH

Fine 2. 5d Due, wmk "e" Inverted, margin single. N H. VF 3. as above but not marginal 4. 6d Due, wmk "e" sldewavs & Inv, mar blk4. VF. NH 5. asabove 6. 8d Due, wmk "e" Inverted, VF NH 7. asabove 8. OF 04611, 15 PVA, blk4, VF NH 9. as above

10. asabove 11 . FOC, Sc 141 pr Mangan, very freSh and fine 12. as above but single stamp on FOC 13. asabove 14. Sc 103·04, Barrvon special cachet cover, fresh and fine The next 16 lots are Postal Statlonerv, all VF mint. see OF's Handbook 15. PSPC7, 1947 Post Card. Ph d purple on off white 16. asabove 17. PSPC9, 1951 PC,2dgreen on off white 18. asabove 19. PSPC 12. 1971, PC. 21i2p brown on white 20. asabove 21. asabove 22. as above 23. asabove 24. asabove 25. PSLC 9.1958 Letter Card, 3d blue 26. PSE 16, 1953 Provisional Envelope. 'hd green & 2'12d brown 27. as above 28. PSRE 36.1962 Reg Evn, 1/1 blue, size F 29. as above 30. PSRE 42, 1971 Reg Env. 14pgreen. with wrong text. size G 31 . '12, 1. 3d Dollard, used prs with raised c. Gd·flne 32. Thom blk op 1'/2,2 die 11 RISe; 2 die I. 15 RIS used fine 33. Thom black 2d die I, pari, LH Fine 34. Thom blue·blacks 2(11),3, 6d RISe; 2( III R S, used fine, 3d

tear 35. Thom blue·black 6d margin pair, LH fine 36. Saorstat '12d, two prs on piece. neat cds 37. Saorstat '12, ld, margin str ips of 3, mint hinged fine 38. Saorstat 1'12d margin pair. mint hinged fine 39. Saorstat 2'12d margin pair, NH VF 40. Saorstat 5d margin pair. NH VF 41 . Saorstat 6d margin pair, NH Flne·VF 42. Saorstat 9d margin pair , one NH. slight offset of op on

reverse. f ·VF "3. Saorstat ls. NH Flne·VF 44. Sc 76. ls def. used strip of 4 plUS single. 2 are creased, Gd·Flne

45. Sc 96, 2/6 def, "se" wm k, margin coPV, LH V F 46. Sc 106·117, 137·38, 121·23. "e" deflns, complete used, Fine 47. Sc 107. lnv wmk plus normal , used, Fine 41. Sc 109. vert coli strip of 4. with loin. N H VF 49. Sc 99. margin copy. 2 short perfs, mint LH. VF 50. Sc 151 , Marlan vr, 5 used Singles with weak frame lines. Fine 51 . Sc 198·99, Int. Tel. used Fine 52. Sc 200·01, Yeats, used F ine 53. Sc 238, lolned harp strings var with normal, used Fine 54. Sc 240, spot on the hat varletv w ith normal, used Fine 55. Sc 326a. ss, m Inor crease, N H VF 56. Sc 305,4p Europa 1971, blk 10 NH with Retouch R2/4. VF 57. Sc 305, 4p Europa 1971, blk6 NH with curved line R9 2, VF 58. Sc 307, 4p Svnge, cVI blkof 6 NH with line flaw R9/2·3, VF 59. Sc 312, 2'12P Christmas 1971. cVI blk of 10, spot varletv, R9/5.

VF 60. Sc 312, 2'12P Christmas 1971, blk 12 NH with dlag line flaw, VF 61 . Sc 259, 9d stag, Retouch and line flaw copies used on piece,

~Ine 62. Sc 275,6d Gandhi. Retouch usedon piece R2/2, Fine 63. Sc 214, 5d Casement, head flaw used, Fine 64. Sc 202, 3d I CY, line flaw used, Fine 65. Revenues, J6·J8. Petty Sessions. 6d.2s6d, used Fine 66. as above but m Inor creases 67. G25. One Pound Judicature. used fine, stained 68. G61, One Pound Judicature, used fine 69. Revenue lot, Patty Sessions. Judicature, Land Comm, In·

cludes Pound Value, J3(2). J4(2). J6. J7. J8, G7, G17(2). G21,

2.50 1.25 1.00 8.00 8.00 7.00 7.00 4.95 4.95 4.95 2.25 2.00 2.00 2.00

11 .00 11.00

LOO LOO 2.95 2.95 2.95 2.95 2.95 2.95 3.50

12.00 12.00 3.75 3.75 2.00 3.00 5.40 1.60

4.30 2.60 0.40 0.60 0.60 LOO 2.40 1.60

2.40 2.75

4.50 12.00 3.30 0.50 1.20 0.20 0.80 0.65 0.70 2.00 1.60 1.85 2.00 1.50 1.50

1.50 2.00

LOO 0.75 0.75 0.75 2.75 2.50 1.25 2.75

G22, G23, G29, G33. G41. G47(2), G48(3), G49(3), H3. H4 (3), Hl0 Used, a nice lot In good · Fine condition

70. Revenue lot,slmllar to above, J3(2), J4(2), J7, J8. G7, G17 (2), G18, G19, G21. G23, G29. G41. G47(2) , G4I(3) , G49 (3), H4(3 )

71. Revenue lot. J3, J4. J7, G21. G23, G29, G49, H4. used most good. vals Inc Pound

72. Sc 4. 3d Dollard, pr one with broken "I" In " Sealadac". L H F· VF

73. Sc 46, 1'12d Saorstat. broken "1" In date & dull bl ue·bl ack Ink. LH Fine

74. Sc 50 (pr), 52(3), 53 (3), Saorstats, used, Gd·flne 75. Sc 129. OF C25a, l s with m issing cheekbone varletv. LH VF 76. Sc 150, High Val Emmat, HR mint Fine 77. Savings stamp 6d orange, "e" wmk, mint, sword design ; 6d

Petty Sessions 78. Sc 145, HI B C39a, 2'12d M oore Re·entrv on cover. a F ine Item 79. Sc 302, lOp defln, brown outllnetoox, 2 used copies. Fine 80. Sc J2(2). J3(2) , "Se" du es. used Fine 81. PSAL 16. Aero, Hlb cat, m int folded, fine 82. asabove 83. FFC, June 16, 1964. Llmerlck· Prague. bV PAN·AM. Hlb AC23,

Fine 84. F OC lot. 9 dlff, addressed, 1945·73; Sc 133·34. 169·70, 214·15.

232·33, 234·35. 236·37,326, 329·30. Cl&C5, Fine 85. Slogan cancel lot, 11 dlff., between Hlb SP12·152 86. Sc 4, 31(2),,55 used overprints, few faults 87. Sc 106·117. "e" deflns, used Fine 88. Sc 91 ·21, coil s. mint LH, F ine 89. Sc Jl ·J4. J2 tear, used Good·Flne 90. Donation Lot - Overprints Sc 1 (pr). 2 (two prs). 45, 53. 77b,

used Gd·Flne

Unusual Coil

12.50

10.00

2.00

2.00

0.50 4.00 LOO 4.00

1.50 4.50 0.50 2.00 1.00 1.00

5.00

6.00 2.00 0.25 LOO

15.00 3.00

Charles Topjian has brought the coil, here illustrated, to our attention. It's a used copy of Scott No. 87, the 1934 perf 15 coil. Notice that along the bottom there are rather rough serrations along the left half of the stamp, and the normal perforations from there. It 's reasonable to assume that the entire bottom half of the stamp was originally perforated in the normal manner, but what caused the serrations? One possibility is that a stamp vending machine for coils has serrated teeth at the end of the delivery chute to aid in tearing off a strip, but this is pure speculation on our part. Perhaps an overseas member can shed some light on this for us.


CRASH COVERS

by John J . Blessington

As you go through dealers ' cover boxes at stamp shows, an interesting cover to be on the lookout 'for is an Irish " Crash" or "Wreck" cover. I don't know if anyone has ever put together a collection of such or, in fact, if it is possible. At any rate, an Irish Crash cover or two adds spice to a collection for there is always a good story that goes with one if you juSt do a little research.

" Crash Covers" is used here as a generic term. It is meant to include those covers which were salvaged from mail involved in catastrophies, major or minor, at sea, on land or in the air. Perhaps " Salvaged Mail" would have been a more appropriate title but " Crash Covers" seems more descriptive.

Crash covers can be subdivided into two different types. The first type is those that were created by an event, which disrupted the mails, that occurred within Ireland. These mayor may not bear Irish stamps or postal markings but they will bear markings identifying the event as Irish. The second type is those covers recognizably identifiable as originating in Ireland which have been involved in an event somewhere other than Ireland.

During the First World War, the Irish mailboat "Leinster" was torpedoed after leaving Kingstown, heading for England. Some of the mail salvaged bears a handstamp reading "SALVED FROM/~ S LEINSTER. " This is an example of Type I. A more modern example occurred in 1954. On September 5th a Dutch airliner crashed into the river Shannon just after taking off from Shannon Airport (see Revealer, Nov., 1957, page 336). The mail was salvaged and taken to Shannon for processing. The handstamp "SALVAGED FROM KLM CRASH AT SHANNON" was added. Most letters have the stamps washed off but my Dutch air letter sheet is intact. Last year, in an auction in Florida, a portion of a 1916 cover was offered which had the handstamp "SALVED FROM/FIRE GPO DUBLIN." This, too, fits the first type as do those covers which were involved in the raids on Post Offices and mail trains throughout parts of Ireland during the period 1920-22. Many of these are identifiable by markings which were added by the Post Office, in some cases, and in others by the rebels, as reported in the philatelic press over the years (see Revealer Supplement No. 43, Jan. 1970, pp 197-200) .

Type 11, those involving Irish mail outside Ireland, isn 't well documented. That is to say, although the events have been documented, the existence of an Irish cover from the events hasn't been recorded. The illustration on the front cover IS an example of a Type 11 cover. In his book, "A History of Wreck Covers," A. E. Hopkins records this same framed cachet in violet (as is this),

" . . .. on a letter from Guernsey addressed to Grahamstown in South Africa . The date stamps are GUERNSEY 30 APR 25, CAPE TOWN 3 JUN 25 and GRAHAMSTOWN 6 JUN 25, and there is a pencil en-

, dorsement 'On Train from Capetown to ,Port Elizabeth." My attempts to research this event further have come up against a stone wall. I will welcome any information you, the readers, can add. Another cover from my collection (ex T. E. Field coIl.) is a cover from an Imperial Airways flying boat which crashed May 1st 1939 at Mozambique. The plane was the "Challenger" and was bound from England to South Africa. After the crash, the flying boat "Canopus" took on the mails and completed the flight. Damaged mail received a handstamp on arrival at its destination before delivery. My cover bears no handstamp nor is there any damage. However, both the mailing date and the receiving date are correct and the front bears the stamped insignia of the "Challenger."

But enough of examples ... these few should convince you that a faSCinating field awaits anyone who delves into it, and I've only scratched the surface. There are more type I's recorded and who knows how many Type lI 's there are in collections or boxes of covers just waiting to be discovered. To those of you who have some of these covers, either Type I or Type 11, if you will send me the information or a xerox of the covers I'll tabulate the data. If enough covers show up I'll publish a listing. To all of you .... good hunting.

Irish Definitive Varieties

13. GUMS TO 1968

by J. David McKee

CONCLUSION (Continued From July)

B.GUMS

Considerable confusion has developed in some circles as to the nature of the gum or gums used on Irish Definitives. Such gums are variously described as " GA" or Gum Arabic, an organic gum; "PVA" or Poly Vinyl Alcohol, a synthetic gum ; and " PV AD" , the term normally used to describe PVA gum to which colouring has been added in the form of the chemical Dextrin or Dextrine. To forestall critics, the writer adds that the definition of PVA is somewhat controversial, as it is sometimes called 'Poly Vinyl Acetate' . In fact the gum probably contains both the alcohol and acetate.

Prior to Decimalisation in 1971, Gum Arabic was used on all Irish issues, but from 1968 PVA (you decide on the Alcohol/Acetate agrument) was introduced to replace GA.

Now, there is one problem with pure PVA, in that it is basically matt and nearly transparent, so that on some stamps the resuIt'is an 'un-gummed' appearance. This led to production control problems as well as user difficulties, and from about 1971-72 colour additives were mixed with the PVA, giving a colouring that could be loosely described as 'yellowish' and occaSionally 'shiny' .

Generally speaking, when faced with the decision as to whether a stamp is gummed with GA or PV A, one relies somewhat on the fact that GA is usually rather shiny, and PVA is matt. On the Decimal "Animals" Definitives, GA was not used, but 'shiny' PVA (Le. with colourant to make the gum visible) has appeared, in addition to plain PVA. In common with many aspects of Irish philately, a confusion exists here. The writer has seen this shiny colourant referred to as "Gum Additive" and abbreviated to "GA". Of course! ! In fact, this " GA" is only PVA with additives, and the real or honest-to-God GA refers to the pre-1970 period.

Hence, we have GA up to 1968, and PVA appearing subsequently, with GA fading out around 1970, but with a short overlap period affecting the first (Lsd) 'Animals' only. The PVA after 1970 appears both clear, matt and often quite transparent on the one hand, and with yellowish additive in varying (and

,4 The Revealer October, 1977

seemingly uncontrolled) concentrations on the other hand, and in varying degrees of shinyness. This shinyness often rivals GA, but we must trust the word of the Phil. Bur. unless we are prepared for spectrographic analysis.

The Phil Bur. further testifies that it does not use Dextrine as a colourant, but on the unwatermarked "Animals" set of 1974, there is a real green tinge in the gum. Of course, this does not have to be Dextrine, but one remembers the plea of the Phil. Bur. that they do not learn of the latest printing variations until the stocks actually hit their desks, and one does not thereafter wish to be overly positive. Further the Deponent sayeth not!

14. THE 1968 Lsd "ANIMALS" The basic gum in the first "Animals" set was Gum Arabic,

which was to be found on all values except the coil stamps, which were PV A. In addition, PVA began to rear its synthetic head on printings from 1970, when it appeared on the Id, 2d, 3d, 5d, 6d, 9d, 1/ - and 2/6. Or so states Stanley Gibbons. In fact, PVA on the 2d is problematical, and on the 5d it is known, but rare.

15. THE 1971 DECIMAL " ANIMALS" All values of the watermarked Decimal set were produced

with PV A gum, and it was on this set that the additive began to appear. In fact, the additive could have appeared on all values of the set, as more and more printings were required. However, the set proved short-lived (by Irish standards) being supplanted by the unwatermarked set over a period (still continuing) commencing in 1974. As a result some low, or odd, values on watermarked paper became virtually obsolete before they reached the stage of requiring further printings on paper gummed with coloured gum. The practical demonstration of the !hp as a unit of currency, and the postal uselessness of the 1lhp and 3p values are probable causes for these denominations not appearing (to the writer's knowledge) on 'Additive' gum.

Additive appears (in addition to clear PVA) on the lp, 2p, 2lhp, 3!hp, 4p, 5p Stag, 6p, 7p, 71h p, 10p and 20p. The omission of the 5p Dog and the 9p Stag from this list is probably due to the fact that they appeared on unwatermarked paper (UWP) quite early on. The 20p and 50p possibly never ran to enough extra printings for inclusion in the additive list because postal demand for these values was low in comparison to the lower values. 16. BOOKLETS

Booklets are currently still. being produced on watermarked paper, and it must be supposed that they, too, will exhibit gum varieties in the future. At present, the only booklet pane that shows gum variety is the 2!h pane of 6 from 1974 booklets. This pane is found in two types, already dignified with type numbers. Type I uses clear PV A, but Type 11 has a noticeably yellowish gum. There is a faint shade variety, too: Type 11 is slightly lighter in appearance, and further, there may be a slight variation in overall pane dimensions. It should be noted that this pane appears with both WSL and WSR, and the two types of gum are found on both Wmk. formats .

17. THE 1974 UNWATERMARKED "ANIMALS" The unwatermarked Definitives naturally present con

siderable problems to the writer, as would any current set. Production of these stamps continues, and presumably will continue for many years. Additional denominations will be introduced as postal charges continue to skyrocket: merely look each year at the GPO's list of proposed Commemorative issues, and note the expected denominations. And, of course, keep an eye on the British charges. It seems to be a matter of national pride that we should never offer a cheaper service for any extended period.

As a result, the following comments are only of a provisional nature. Before long we may find different gums, new colourants, self-adhesives or even 'gum-it-yourself' types. So far there seem to have been no cases of shiny gum additives in this set, but a certain degree of colouring exists, notably on the 6p, 7p

and 9p Stag values. An equally notable item is the 20p which appears with colouring, and also with an apparently white gum. Actually, the colouring could almost· be described as tinting, and yellow is far less in evidence. The predominant tints are blue, or green, or bluish-green (or even greenish-blue? ). The different varieties of the 20p are so noticeable that we could claim to be dealing with a considerable variation in paper thickness, by no means an unlikely circumstance.

The tinted 20p allows far more of the design to show through from the back of the stamp than does the 'white' gum type. Similarly the lOp and 15p (large size) show some tinting, and also let the design appear quite clearly from the back. Of the £1, it is so thin that all that can be said is that, for £ 1 they could a t least have given us more paper; that perhaps air mail is to become so expensive that the weight of the stamp might put up the cost of sending an air letter; and that you must be careful to stick the stamp to the letter (or postcard, before long) the right way round.

Reverting briefly to the 9p Stag UWP, this value has recently appeared in a second, distinctly paler shade, with noticeably coloured gum, while the darker shade comes with both tinted and clear PV A. To sum up this subject, the study of gums on the current Unwatermarked definitives is necessarily only in its infancy, and the GPO must be watched with an eagle (not to say stag-, dog- and ox-like) eye.

C.PAPERS 18. PAPER VARIETIES

The writer does not intend to discuss paper types at any length. Such a study requires access to a vast number of stamps produced over many years, and even the use of physical and chemical apparatus. The subject could stand considerable additional research, bearing in mind the 46 years of life of the first 1922 Definitive designs, and the extended lives of other sets.

The best-known values exhibiting distinct paper types are the 6d "Sword of Light" from the 1940 "E" set, and the St. Patrick "E" high values.

The 6d 'Sword' value comes in two basic types, described as 'Ordinary' paper and 'Chalky' paper. In fact , the degree of chalkiness varies somewhat and, further, the paper itself changes in colour from creamy white to white . The writer admits that he begs the question somewhat in his own collection by listing the stamp as (a) Creamy; (b) chalky, and (c) white. It could be argued that the listing should be reduced to (a) Cream, and (b) chalky ; or even that it should be increased to (a ) Ordinary/Cream; (b) Chalky/Cream ; (c) Chalky/White and (d) Ordinary/White. But who wants to be didactic? If you do, please tell me first.

The St. Patrick "E" set ran for about 26 years, going obviously, through a number of printings and a variety of shades (as indeed did most of the 1940 Definitive set apart from the lld value). The first issues of 1942-45 were on a decidedly creamycoloured paper. From about 1952 the 2/6 appeared on chalky (i.e. chalk-surfaced) paper gradually increasing in whiteness, as did the 5/-. The 10/- became chalky around 1948-50. Extremes in paper shade (degrees of whiteness) would probably classify as CreamtChalk, and White/Chalk, the former distinct from the 1942-45 issues on cream paper. Incidentally , it seems that the WI versions of these high values also exhibit a range of papers.

19 . THE FUTURE What of the future? In the first case, it can be assumed that

continuing pressure on the Phil. Bur. will eventually result in an extended service whereby Standing Order customers at least (and indeed who amongst us is not? ) will receive notification of paper and gum changes, and of new printings, like other Postal Authorities. This will allow the collector to keep abreast of most (Note : one does not say all) such changes. All we need now is that pressure.

Then, paper itself is no longer a constant commodity. We

October, 1'¥77' The Revealer Page 25

find British stamps being produced on a variety of papers, such as FCP (Fluorescent Coated Paper) and PCP (Printer's Contract Paper). Manufacturers do not offer a standing guarantee that supplies will never vary. The paper substance will vary, generally for the worse, and the addition of wood pulp (mechanical wood content) helps to keep prices down. Thinner paper, appearing on stamps from all over the British Isles since 1970, allows more of the design to show from the rear, giving the appearance of gum colours that are actually colours from the stamp design. Colours 'showing through' combined with gum colourants, can give truly remarkable results in terms of the 'look' of the stamp from the rear, and also from the front.

New gums, new colourants, all will have an effect, perhaps producing many varieties not easy to distinguish except in extreme cases. In due time we may well see the introduction of paper coatings, phosphor coding for automatic letter-facing machines (ALF) and machine cancelling, and fluorescence in the actual paper through optical brightening agents (DBA). All these factors affect current British stamps. If these changes come to Ireland then a whole new page opens in the study of Irish stamps.

Nobody nowadays would seek a greater number of annual issues, but it is true that few countries in modern times can match Ireland's miserable record of having had one basic design of definitives for 46 years, from 1922 to 1969. Hence an interest in varieties of Wmk., paper and gum such as exist in our issues provides another enjoyable handle to the study of Irish philately, and gives us many more stamps to play WIth ... excuse it please; in which to specialise!

Editor's Note: Since this article was written some time ago, more recent information on the unwatermarked definitives may be found in the John R. Smallman article in the October Revealer and the Brian Warren article in this issue.

Postal Satationery Notes by J. E. Foley

For the past few months Wayne Menuz, John Blessingtoh and I have been exchanging notes on the registered letter envelopes issued since the publication of the Irish section of the Higgins and Gage catalog. I've tried to structure the foremat and numbering system to follow the H & G pattern. Of Significant help was the work of Paddy Smithers, O. M. Richards and Dr. C. A. Ross published in our sister publication, Irish Philately, as well as Fred Dixon in "Random Notes" and the contributors to this column. The pricing tends to follow recent dealers' lists, but realizations in EP A and IPC auctions have been somewhat lower. A question mark in the price column indicates that we did not have sufficient information to estimate a price and a dash indicates a doubt that the item exists in that state (Le., mint or used as the case may be).

REGISTERED ENVELOPES -C-

196-. Text is the same as 25a, Le., with bottom two lines on reverse in red.

27. 1 shilling 9 pence brown, G. . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... - ?

1969 Text on reverse refers to 1/ registry rate. Size H has the same text and font of type as 26b, and on obverse, fifth line of text " THIS LETTER MUST . . ." measures 112 mm long. Text on reverse of size H measures 170 mm long.

28. 1 shilling 9 pence brown, F . .... .. . .. .. . .. .. . 7.00 5.00 a. same, G . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 6.50 4.50 b. same, H . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8.00 5.50 c. same, K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9.00 6.50

1970 (?). Text on reverse refers to 11 registry rate. New font of type. Fifth line of text on obverse measures 107 mm long.

Text on reverse measures 177 mm long and accents on Gaelic portion of text on reverse are thinner, elongated and more upright than 28b.

29. 1 shilling 9 pence brown, H ... . ......... . .... 20.00 10.00 1970. Text on the referse refers to the 1/ registry rate and the

font of type and layout is the same as 29. 30. 2 shillings 9 pence blue (shades), H . ......... 15.00 10.00

1970. Text on the reverse refers to 1/ 3d registry rate. 31. 2 shillings 9 pence blue (shades), G . ....... . . 12.50 10.00 a. same, K .. ..... .. .. . . .... .. .... .. ... .. . . ... : 15.00 12.50

1971 (?) . Text on the reverse refers to the 1I3d registry rate. 32. 14 pence light green, G .: . . ."...... . .. ... .. ...? ?

1971. Text on reverse refers to 6p registry rate. 33. 14 pence light green, G. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 5.00 4.00 a. same, impressed stamp missing, G .. . ..... . 50.00+ b. same, H ... . .. .... ... .. .. ... ... . . ....... . .. 6.00 5.00 c. same, K . .. ... .. . .......... . ............... 7.00 6.00

1972. Text on reverse refers to lOp registry rate and £3.40 compensation limit on letters sent abroad.

34. 14 pence light green, G .. . . ... . ......... ... .. 5.00 6.00 a. same, H .. .... .... .. .-...... . . . .. .. .... .. .... 7.50 6.00 b. same, K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 8.00 6.00

1973. Text on reverse refers to lOp registry rate and £5.44 compensation limit on letters sent abroad.

35. 14 pence light green, G ...................... 10.00 7.00 a. same, H .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 6.00 4.50 b. same, K .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.50 5.50

1973. Text as in 35 above. 36. 17 pence red, G . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. 6.00 5.00 a. same, H . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.00 5.00

1973. Same as 36 but rate and compensation limit corrected in red or blue manuscript.

37. 17 pence red, G . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . .. 4.00 4.00 a. same, H ................ ... ........... ... . . . 5.00 5.00

1974. Text on reverse refers to 12p registry rate. 38. 17 pence red, G . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.50 2.00 a. same, H . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.50 2.50 b. same, K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 4.00 3.00

1975 (? ). Text on reverse refers to lOp registry rate. 39. 25 pence blue, G . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .? ?

1975. Text on reverse refers to 12p registry rate. 40. 25 pence blue, G . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 9.00 6.50 a. same, H .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.00 4.00 b. same, K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 6.00 5.00

1975 (?). Completely revised envelope stock and text. No cotton scrim and no mention of specific registry rate.

41. 25 pence blue, K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 5.00 4.00

1976 (?). Text on reverse refers to lOp registry rate. Same envelope stock as 40.

42. 33 pence purple brown, G . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ?

1976. Text on reverse refers to 12p registry rate. Same envelope stock as 40.

43. 33 pence purple brown, G . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 11.00 8.50

1976. Envelope as 41. 44. 33 pence purple brown, G . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.00 1.50 a. same, H . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 2.50 2.00 b. same, K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 3.00 2.50

1977. Same as before with value increased. 45. 37 pence dar~slate, G .. .... ......... ....... . 1.75 1.00 a. same, H . .... . ....... . .. .. .. .... ... . . . .... . . 2.00 1.50


Unwatermarked Decimal Definitives - Additional Data by Brian Warren (E.P.A. 1257)

I have been collecting modern Ireland for some years now with particular emphasis on the decimal issues. At the present time I am studying the unwatermarked definitives. The introduction of this unwatermarked paper has caused considerable confusion as alterations in both gum and paper have occurred, as stated in the John R. Smallman article in the July Revealer. " Gum and Paper Types on the Unwatermarked Definitives." I am writing this article in an attempt to shed a little more light on the subject. Padraig 0 Mathuna (E.P .A. 472) and Eddie Fitzgerald (E.P.A. 1241) have been most helpful in corroborating the information compiled in the listing furnished herewith and I wish to extend warm thanks to both. GUM

The gum used on the unwatermarked definitives is all Poly Vinyl Alcohol (PVA) and it was used on both papers .... the Original Coated Paper (OCP) and the FlUorescent Coated Paper (FCP). PV A is transparent and. when dry. has a matte finish. Its presence can easily be overlooked. This caused many complaints from the public claiming the absence of adhesive. To head off these complaints a dye has been added to the gum. OCP paper has a small amount of brown dye added. The gum of the FCP paper comes in two distinct variations: either colorless off white or blue-green with a ribbed effect. Thus there are three paper gum types which are summarized in the following table:

TYPE A TYPE B TYPE C

OCP FCP PAPER

Heavy Thick Ll,ght Thin

U.V. LAMP EFFECT Medium Brilliant (Front) Fluorescence Fluorescence

PVA GUM Matt with colourless blue·green with brown dye off white ribbed effect

IDENTIFICA TlON To aid identification, stamps should be viewed in blocks;

marginal, corner or cylinder blocks are preferable as the colour of the stamp showing through the back can cause difficulty in identifying the gum. It should be noted that a U.V. lamp is not

, necessary for identification due to the presence of three different gums. Members may not want to distinguish between types Band C but I have listed all known types in order that you can make your own decision. Collectors should note that FCP printings can quickly resemble OCP printings if given undue and lengthy exposure to ultra-violet light.

CYLINDERS All cylinders are numbered I with the exception of the olive

green cylinder on the 7p stag stamp which is numbered 2. To explain this numbering I must refer to the watermarked "e" series. The 7p stag was first issued in January. 1974, on watermarked "e" paper with PVA shiny gum. The stamps were printed in the usual two panes of 100 stamps per pane but the top pane was disregarded and only the lower pane, with cylinder Numbers I I was distributed. The top half of the olive-green cylinder was damaged thus necessitating the destruction of the top pane. In anticipation of the increase in postal rates on 1st October 1974, a new printing of the 7p stag stamps was distributed in September, 1974. This new printing was on unwatermarked paper; in addition, a new olive-green cylinder numbered 2 was introduced at the same time. The number 2 cylinder was NOT used on watermarked "e" paper. It thus can

be appreciated that gutter pairs of the 7p stag only exist on unwatermarked paper .

CONCLUSION The attached listing is, of course. only correct as at the time

of writing (June, 1977). Further additions will no doubt appear by the time you read this edition of The Revealer. I hope that the listing is of help to members who may want to specialise in this new and interesting field of Irish philately.

UNWATERMARKE D DECIMAL DEFINITIVES CYLINDER BLOCK CHECK LIST

VALUE CYLINDERS DESCRIPTION PAPER /GUM TYPES

A B C

lp I Dog X X 2p I Dog X X 3p I Dog X

3'1.p I Dog X 5p I Dog, Yellow.green shade X X 5p I Dog, Ollve·green shade X 6p 11 Stag X 6p I Dog X 7p 21 Stag X X 7p I Dog X X X Bp 11 Stag X Bp I Dog X 9p 11 Stag X X 9p I Dog X X

lOp 1111 Ox X X lOp 1I Stag X X lOp I Dog. X X IIp II Stag X l2p 11 Stag X X 15p 1111 Ox X X 17p I111 Ox X X 20p 11I1 Ox .. X X X 50p 1111 Eagle X £1 1111 Eagle X lOp coli strip 5p + 2p + 2p + lp

Printed Leader Code · DG X 7px5 booklet From 50p booklets

pane Issued March, 1977 X

NOTES • Since the above list was prepared, the lOp Dog has appeared in

Cylinder No. 2 with Paper/Gum Type B. .. The 20p Ox on Type A Paper /Gum differs Slightly from other values of

th Is type In that the amount of brown dye added Is slight and appears to be cream.

:John cR. cEmaLLman Y? Enfj. !BadJ..E.ck, dV ova cE cotia

Canada !Bo E - I!BO fJE.L .r 902 ) 295 -3044

FINE STAMPS OF IRELAND, - 011

CANADA AND PROVINCES ~~ Member: E.P.A., R.P.S.C., c.P.S.G . B .~~ 11

Canadian Stamp Dealers Association

Comprehensive Price List free to E.P.A . Members

October, 1977 The ~evealer Page 27

Literature Notes by J. E. Foley

Scott Catalogue, 1978 edition. For the past few years, the eagerly awaited annual edition of the "bible of philately" has been a dlsappointment. The so-called 1978 edition is definitely not an exception to this trend. Available in late June of this year, it appears that it was set editorially in late 1976, and the prices reflect this. In regard to quality, your telephone directory is probably far superior. Many of the illustrations are entirely indecipherable and in general the printing, paper and binding have deteriorated to a point considered unacceptable by this reviewer. Perhaps planned obsolescence is a phrase that applies to more than the automotive industry. The Irish listings are little changed from the 1977 edition. The PENCF error, No. 15a advanced from $225 to $250. The Harrison 5 line coils, including No. 22a, are up $1- to $18.00. No. 36-38 remain unchanged at $605. The 1934 coils, No. 91 and 92, have gone from $30 to $34.

+ + + D. F. Newsletter, Dublin, David Feldman, Ltd., Summer 1977, Vol. 2, No. 27.

This issue begins with another excerpt of R. G. Booth's catalog of the adhesive revenues. This is followed by a valuable addenda to the Handbook of Irish Postal History to 1840, by Dr. Brian de Burca. Bill Kane continues his listings of Postal Stationery, this time English Victorian registered letter envelopes. M. V. D. Champness has an interesting item on Irish Missent Markings. Note on several modern varieties conclude the issue.

PRICES REALIZED E.P.A. SALE NO. 40

Lot Price Lot Price Lot Price Lot Price 1. 4.00 12. 3.75 23. 1.60 34. 4.25 2. 3.75 13. 12.00 24. 4.00 35. 3.50 3. 1.25 14. 8.00 25. 3.75 36. 3.50 4. 8.00 15. 1.35 26. 1.80 37. 3.50 5. 3.00 16. 5.00 27. 1.80 38. 3.50 6. 5.25 17. 5.25 28. 3.00 39. 4.25 , 7. 14.50 lB . 2.25 29. 3.00 40. 4.00 B. 10.00 19. 2.25 30. 2.25 41. 4.25 9. 5.00 20. 2.25 31. 2.50 42. 4.50

10. 2.75 21 . 2.25 32. 1.60 43. 4.50 11. 2.75 22. 1.55 33. 7.00

Priestly Wins Field Award

It was the unanimous recommendation of the Field Award Committee and concurrance by President Preston A. Pope, that Michael H. Priestly. . . . "has exemplified the traditions of the Thomas E . Field Award with his unequaled studies of the early overprint plates. His contributions to the study of Irish Philately have greatly aided all collectors in the enjoyment of our hobby. Most notably his detailed plating of the Harrison coil overprints led to the discovery of their stereo layout and overprinting methods. Without the use of an extensive collection to study, Michael would examine fellow collectors' collections, as well as library and auction lots, to further unravel the mysteries of the early overprint plates. USing precise measurements, and picking out constant letter flaws, he was able to help collectors plate most of their multiple overprint pieces from the different Dollard, Thorn and Harrison types."

He has personally aided the Eire Philatelic Association by serving as Director, Vice President and Revealer Distribution Manager for our overseas members. Not the least of his ac-

+ + + Ireland Pricellst - August 1977, Owl Stamp Studio, Box 1998, Studio City, CA. 91604, 6 pp. and 1978 Prlcellst of the Stamps of Ireland, J . R. Smallman, Box 329, Baddeck, Nova Scotia, Canada BOE IBO, 12 pp., 25 cents. Whyte's Stamp News, No. 3, June 1977, Ian Whyte, 3 Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin 2, Ireland.

Although not illustrated, these are excellent price lice lists with useful information and a Significant amount of non-Scott material. Well worth looking through even by the advanced collector.

+ + + The Album, Cork Philatelic Society.

A footnote to Fred Dixon's comments on this new publication that appeared in "Random Notes" in the July issue: The Cork Philatelic Society intends to publish their journal twice a year. Membership in the society is £2 which includes the subscription. Further information can be obtained from John Lyall, 24 Woodlawn, Model Farm Rd., Cork, Ireland.

+ + + Irish Philately, U.K., Irish Philatelic Circle, Volume 1977, June, 1977, No. 2.

In the letters to the editor, Peter Hynes has a supplement to an earlier listing of Varieties Since Decimal Day. Norah K. Wright's excellent listing of Irish Perfins is continued from the last issue. This is a major work and should be of permanent value to anyone at all interested in the subject. O. M. Richards has his usual "Postmark Miscellany" column and J . Hearn has an article on watermarks. Another installment of "The Cancelling Machines of Ireland, Provinces" concludes the issue.

E.P.A. SPECIAL OFFERS The following Items may be ordered from Edward J. Ryan, 4A

Churchwood, 91 Rlvervlew Rd., Nlantlc, eT 06357, U.S.A. All prices Include postage and handling. Make all checks and monev orders payable to E. J. Ryan .

IRISH OVERPRINT IDENTIFIER - A clear plastic overlay to help sort out your overprint Issues. With It Is a chart giving Scott and Gibbons numbers and an article on Identifying the overprints. Price : 53.25 to members, 55.25 to non·members.

HIBERNIAN CATALOG OF THE STAMPS OF IRELAND-l'22-1972 - A very worthwhile catalog at a reasonable price. 55.00 postpaid to members only.

THE "TAYLOR-MADE" FENIAN ESSAYS-J. E. Foley'sstudy of the origin of the Fenlan labels that appeared In The Amerlun Philatelist, has been reprinted as a booklet through a lolnt venture of the E .P.A. and the A.P.S. The 24·page booklet contains 25 Illustrations and BD footnotes . The origin Is traced not to the Fenlan Brotherhood, but to the notorious 19th century producer of bogus philatelic material, S. Allan Taylor. Price $1.50 each .

E.P.A. SEAL RUBBER STAMP - The official seal of the Eire Philatelic AsSOCiation, as seen on the front cover and all official E.P.A. letterheads, has been reproduced Into a rubber stamp available to our members. Dress up your envelopes and letters by using the official seal . Price 53.00 each.

THE ADHESIVE REVENUE STAMPS OF IRELAND: 1151 - 1925 - James J . Brady's detailed study of Irish revenue stamps as reprinted from The American Philatelist. All the revenues from this period have been placed Into easy·to·follow catalog form with many Interesting detailS related to these Issues. The booklet begins with the pre·Vlctorlan revenues and ends with the ProviSional Government Overprints of 1925. The 20-page booklet contains over B5111ustratlons and Is a must for the Irish collector. Price $2.00 each to members and $2.25 each to non-members.

complishments are the many fine articles he has contributed to The Revealer. As is customary, life membership in the E.P.A. is conferred on the recipients of the Field Award.


Compulsory Registration

by Eugene M. Labiuk The following cover is an example of Irish Compulsory

Registration.

The Cover was posted on board ship and contains a G.B. Ilhd. stamp of King George VI and is cancelled with a doublering "Paquebot Cobh" c.d.s., dated August 13, 1939.

\ I~ . n ·. S"c Gr r ~If .

ce~ • . ~ I . .:>

( .

- . ',,---~,.~~ HA BlIADH.

I····" 'I · :..:.....-.-- - ~: .-

At the Cobh office it was discovered that the envelope contained coins and was registered as per postal regulations. At this point "Compulsory Regd" was written at the upper left corner and a Cobh registered label attached. In the top center is written "6d to pay". At that time the registration rate was 6d. Upon arrival in London two 3d postage due stamps were attached in the bottom left corner.

Upon delivery the addressee refused to pay the 6d postage due, and thus pegan another journey through the posts. In the upper right along side the stamp is written "Refused H.J." In the middle of the cover is a long rectangular marking "Undelivered for reason stated/return to sender" . At this point the first two 3d postage dues received a rectangular marking "Charge not collected !Fresh label required" . And two more 3d postage dues were added. And the cover was forwarded on to the sender. Postage ·dues cancelled with Worthing, Sussex c.d.s., dated August 17, 1939.

On the back of the cover is affixed a label from the Irish Post Office, stating the Compulsory Registration Regulation.

"Valuable articles should not be forwarded in unregistered packets.

"Packets containing Coin or jewellery, and packets bearing the word 'Registered' or any word, phrase, or mark to the like effect are, if posted without registration, subjected to compulsory registration and charged with a registration fee of 6d., less any amount paid in excess of postage.

"Certain other unregistered packets are liable to be compulsorily registered and charged with a fee of 3d. (see Eoluidhe and Phuist (P.O. Guide) under 'Compulsory Registration') .

"This packet has been registered for the following reason 'Contains coins' (handwritten). "

EPA TRADING POST

All E .P .A. members are entitled to two free 25·word ads In th e Trad· Ing Post each year . For sale and priced offers are not accept ed. Only want lists and exchange ads wi ll be accepted by the Auction M anager. The editor may be contacted regarding other types of advertising.

TRADE : My quantity U.S. and foreign commemorat lves fo r most any Irish material. Write R. Chalet, 2412 S. Voss Rd., F ·21 2, Houston, Texas nos]. WANTED: Unwatermarked Decimal Deflnltlves · Cylinder Blocks (4) of both 7p stag and 7p dog Type A. Can exchange for sim ilar material. B. Warren, 15 Gran ite Hall, Rosmeen Gardens, Don Laogh alre, Co . Dublin, Ireland.

IRISH MAIL AUCTION CLOSES NOVEMBER 13

MATERIAL NOW ACCEPTED FOR OUR FEBRUARY AUCTION

• Stamps • Postal History • Overprints • Controls • Booklets and Panes

• Postal Stationery • Revenues • Collections • Railway Le tt er

Stamps • Varieties

November auction material on view at San Francisco Collectors Club show and SUN PEX.

February material on view at Filatel ic Fiesta February San Jose, California.

Free well illustrated catalog four weeks prior to closing by mail. Prices Realized $1 .

J.L AUCTIONS P.O. Box 195 Moffett Field, California 94035

James Lawless, Prop., EPA APS IPC


The Identifier is Back! ! !

OOLLARD

I OR '"

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nA 1I .. " .... nn

1922

kARRISON I

R .... t.CA, 5eAt.A1I ... i:

nA 116.".Ann

1111.

THOMV

SAO.n:J.C 6'R.Ann

1111

THOM

R .... \.I:.o., se ... t.A1IA6

n ... h .. " .......

1111.

THOM THOM THOM I 11 OR '" IV

R .... \.I:.o.' R .... \.I:.o., R .... t.CA, E • 1Ie.o.t.A1I ... 6 seAt.A1I ... 6 seAt.A1IAi: ~

n ... n ... nA to ""re ... nn 1160" .... nn 116'"OAnn " 1111. 1111. 1111. ~

'IHOM '" OOLLARDII HARRISON 11

2'6 d , 5' OR 10'

R .... \.I:.o., R .... t." ... , S ... o.sc.l.c se ... t.A1IAi: se ... LA1I ... i: 6 ••• Ann

nA 1I"".Ann nA 1I~,,, .... nn 1111

%922

CASTLE I

SAORSd.C e ...... nn

1121

1CJ22

VARIETIES

CASTLE lA

CASTLE 11

.... 0"""" 6 ...... nn 1 .. .

•...........................•.•.......... · · · · · · · · · · : ·

8 ... 0 • ..,.l.c 6, ..... "n

1111

.•••.•........•..•• , ..•.••.•.••.••.•..... @ EIRE PHILATELIC ASSOCIATION 1977

I St.' .. :._" ~

After a couple of years absence, the Overprint Identifier again is available from Ed Ryan (see E.P.A. Special Offers.) Pictured above is a reduced size copy.

During the last two years Bill McCaw and Preston Pope negotiated successfully to purchase the rights to the Identifier for the Association. They have also received permission from the American Philatelic Society to reprint Joe Foley's article from the 'April, 1975, issue of The American Philatelist. This article has been keyed to the Identifier. The Identifier, Article and Identifier chart (with Scott and Gibbons numbers) have been printed by the E .P .A. and are being offered in one package. They will be a great help in taking the mystery out of identifying the overprints.

For those who aren't familiar with one, the Identifier is a sheet of clear plastic with all of the overprints printed on the film in the exact same size as the actual overprints. To use the Identifier place it over a stamp and compare the film's overprint with that on the stamp. When they coincide the catalog number, Scott or Gibbons, may be found by referring to the proper column in the furnished chart.

Sd Phofogravure Booklet Stamps

Scott 227a, Hib. D34

By Padraig 0 Mathuna

( Conclusion) PANE 12 UPRIGHT WATERMARK

PANE 13 INVERTED WATERMARK

PANE 12 (Illustrated) Mark consists of a single rubbed line which affects both stamps in the vertical pair.

NOTE : I have seen only one pane each of PANE 12 and 13 with this mark

INVERTED WATERMARK

PANE 14

R2/3 The tops of the first "N" of PINGINE appear to be dotted. Compare this with the second normal "N" Under the first "N" the frame line is distorted and forms a flat "0"

-


PANE 15 •

a) Rl/2 The ninth line of shading above the arm is broken near the edge of the oval

The line of shading at the bottom is missing

b) R2t1 There is a clear break in the bottom curve of "C"

The first "N" of PINGINE same as R2/3 of PANE 14

PANE 16

a) R1I3 On the outer curve of the top loop of the "C" and joined to it there is an open circle A dot just outside the left frame line 7mm up from the bottom corner

b) A dot in the curve of the wide ribbon just above the narrow ribbon crossover in the right hand corner

c) A prominent dot under the " E " in PINGINE

d) R2/3 A dot between the frame lines directly under "G" of CUIG

PANE 17

R1I1 A fine break in the frame line directly under the first "N" of PINGINE


PANE 18

R2/3 A circular gap in the outside of the top of the right leg of the second "N" of PINGINE

PANE 19

R2I2 The usual 5 dots are not visible to the eye but under the lens faint specks of 4 dots are visible

The line of shading at bottom of the oval is missing.

PANE 20

a) Rl/1 A double break in a line of shading at the left edge of the oval

NOTE: I have only seen this in 2/6 booklets

• b) RI/3A major retouch of the top frame line above "RE" of ErnE

Retouch thickens the top line and makes it bulge upwards to a high point over the final "E". This can be clearly seen in opposition to the straight ruled line A-A I have drawn on the photo. In addition the two short vertical lines after the "E" are thickened'at the top and fill the space. The top of the frame line is rough and toothed in appearance.

PANE 2] liiiiii ••

ru/3 To the eye there appears to be a number of breaks in the right corner end of the frame line but under the lens these resolve into very faint circles of the photo screen

NOTE: I have only seen this on used copies but the pane position can be clearly identified by the trimming of the perforations

PANE 22 '?IIIir::ii~iiiI'I!

rut3 The final .5mm of the inner frame line, under the final "E" of PENGINE, is not printed due to a break in the line

EDITOR'S NOTE: Assuming only one plate was used for printing there are 40 different panes, 20 with upright watermark and 20 inverted, not all of which may prove to be identifiable. Mr. 0 Mathuna offers evidence to identify 22 panes. He asks readers to check their panes for confirmation of his findings and for additional information concerning other identifiable panes. Send your information to me and I'll pass ,it along to him.

The Revealer

PRIVATE TREA TV SALE • A complete mint Irish collection from No. 1 through 1973, mostly

unhinged although some of the early overprints are lightly hinged.

• This beautiful collection of over 500 stamps, the property of a long time E. P.A. member, is offered for sale intact. Some of the high catalog and specialist items included are: la and 2a inverts; lOA; Both horizontal and vertical paste-up pairs of 19, 20, 21, 22 and 22a i 36,37 and 38; 93,94 and 95; booklet panes 65a, 66a, 66b, 68a, 106a, 107a, 108a, 109a, 110a, 111a, 112a, 128a and 226a; coil pairs of 87, 87a, 91, 92, 105 and 105a.

• The collection is mounted in hingeless mounts on White Ace pages and is complete with binder and slip case.

PRICE $2,100.00

• Buyers contact Bill Zellers, P.O. Box 1381, Rivers ide, CA 92501

+ + + + + + Members wishing to sell by Private Treaty please write to Bill. Selling your collection through the E.P.A. helps both you and the membership.

October, 1977

Feldman's Zurich Sale by J. E. Foley

On June 7-9th, David Feldman held his second auction in Zurich. There were in excess of 200 lots of Irish material in the sale, much of it the fine and difficult material that is not often seen. Space prevents us from making a complete report, but this sampling of the realizations should give an indication of the type of material that was included.

DUN LAOGHAIRE SUMMER FESTIVAL

COLLECTORS' EXHIBITION

~~=~~1!~~:: 2·VII·77

Prices are given in Swiss Francs, which equate to about 40 cents U.S. A £5 Queen Victoria with Belfast c.d.s. realized 1,100 fr. Fenian labels went for 1,300 fr . for the 1 cent black on blue and 750 fr. for the 3 cent green. A sheet of the 1907 Sinn Fein Celtic Cross, blue, (72 stamps) with stains and reinforcements brought 100 fr. 260 fr. was paid for the tete-beche variety of the Female and Harp in block of 4 of the same series. A block of 4 of the Dollard lhd proof overprint in red went for 420 fr. and the 101 Dollard with strokes over ten realized 340 fr. A seldom seen item was the Thorn black 5 line 2d die I invert on cover, which sold for 650 fr. In the Thorn Saorstats with missing accents, a 3d brought 280 fr. and a 101 noted as "probably regummed'" 440 fr. A full sheet of 40 of the 51 composite sold for 1,600. The Mollison overprint on the 11 definitive brought 850 fr.

The list of prices realized noted that the next auction is now being prepared and anyone interested would be well advised to write for a copy of the catalog now.

DUN LAOGHAIRE SUMMER FFSTIVAL

COLLECTORS' EXHIBITION

~~~)(J 3.VlI.77

lllustrated are the cancels used at the Collectors Exhibition and Fair held in conjunction with the Dun Laoghaire Summer Festival in July.

The July 2nd postmark depicts a paddle steamer typical of those used on the famous Holyhead and Kingstown Mail-boat route in the 19th century.

That of July 3rd depicts the " Hibernia," the engine used on the first public railway in Ireland, the Dublin and Kingstown Line, opened in 1834.

TIw Revealer

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