Lot 1580 India OCT.18.1932 Madras to Karachi First Flight Set Without Union Jack Flag, includes all 20 of the flight legs, to and from Ahmedabad, Karachi, Bombay, Bellary and Madras. These colourful covers were designed by Stephen Smith “by Sanction of Messrs. Tata Sons Ltd” with inscription on back reading “A Souvenir of a Great Indian Enterprise” and signed by Stephen Smith. The cover design was originally submitted with a Union Jack, which proved to be less than popular, so most of the stock was destroyed. Those that remained were meant for foreign collectors, and those without the flag for Indian collectors. All of these are addressed to Mr. Pont, care of several people in several cities. Some have staining (mostly on back), still overall fine and a rare offering. Scan only shows one of the 20 covers offered here. From the The Leon Victor Pont Collection of Early India, New Zealand and Worldwide Pioneer Flight Covers. Estimate $200, sold for C$2,500.00 plus 17% buyer’s premium.
A Traditional Philatelic Auction House — Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
