Lot 41 Small Queen Vignette Die Proof, on thin paper measuring 36 x 37 mm. Mr. Hillson writes “Originally made in late 1867 or early 1868 as the vignette for the ½c Large Queen, it was used for the entire Small Queen series up to 1882, when the ½c Small Queen was introduced using a reduced size head, necessary because of its diminutive size. This vignette die proof differs only in its reduced circumference to the Large Queen, cutting the point of the neck, and is doubtless made from a die struck from the larger circumference master die.” A rare item and a must have for the serious Small Queen collector. From the John Hillson Collections, and illustrated in H&N, page 4. Estimate C$2,500.
A Traditional Philatelic Auction House — Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
