Sealed with a Stamp – QV Line Engraved used as Seals

Introduction

Penny Blacks – and even Penny Reds – used as seals across the join of folded letters or envelopes are exceptionally rare. In their seminal study of Line Engraved issues, Rockoff and Jackson (2011) recorded fewer than 20 examples of the 1d Black used as seals on the reverse of envelopes, and just six sealing letters on the front.

The public were well aware of Post Office instructions to place the new stamps at the top‑right of envelopes. This was stated on the inscriptional margin around every sheet, for example, and reinforced by a notice issued to the public and the Press on 7 May 1840. To do otherwise was deemed Contrary to Regulations – but this display indicates some confusion existed.

This 16‑page display shows a variety of such uses: Among highlights are:

A May 9 cover sealed with a 1d Black.
Two of the six known examples of 1d Blacks sealing Hermetic envelopes – sent by Robert Peel to Prime Ministers W. E. Gladstone and the Duke of Wellington.
A 1d black used on as a seal during the experiment period of black cancelling ink.
The only recorded 1870 ½d red used as a seal.
Covers endorsed on the front, 'Stamped on the Seal', 'Sealed with a stamp' and 'Stamp'd at back'.

(link)

Frame 1

Introduction

The 1840 Penny Black

The 1841 Penny Red

Other Line‑Engraved

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Sealed with a Stamp – QV Line Engraved used as Seals

Introduction

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