China 1897 4c on 3c deep red "Red Revenue", SG90 Cyprus stamps with only the equivalent of

with only the equivalent of 81 sheets originally being sold

This failing was identified in the first month of issue of the penny black and trials began to find a better combination of stamp and cancellation colours

and the actress Elsa Lanchester

German/Austrian mail

Lovely deep colour and most attractive example of this rare colour

China 1897 4c on 3c deep red "Red Revenue", SG90 Cyprus stamps with only the equivalent ofChina 1897 (Jan) 4c on 3c deep red, 'Large' surcharge as type 19, "Red Revenue", SG90. A fine and fresh mint example with large part original gum. A scarce and popular stamp. In 1897, the new Qing Dynasty government took charge of the Post Office. There was an immediate need for a large quantity of stamps, especially those of high value. While waiting for the delivery of new stamps from Japan a Provisional Issue was made using existing stock from the