Penny Black stamp reconstructions sell for £364,266

The Nissen plate reconstructions, which consist of original reconstructions of twelve 1840 1d Black Plates and are described as ‘one of the most valuable pieces of philatelic history’ have been sold for £364,266.

Sold by Spink in December as part of their sale of the esteemed Chartwell Collection, the reconstructions were originally used to create the renowned Nissen plate reference book, one of the most widely used pieces of British philatelic literature, first published in 1922.

The book, by Charles Nissen and Bertram McGowen, offered a pioneering study of the Penny Black plates; the world’s first postage stamp and comprised photographic plates of all of the twelve plates and stamp positions by corner letters which collectors all over the world still use today to try and identify which plate their 1d. black was printed from.

The collection consists of 2,706 Penny Blacks and includes a two volume plating guide, comprising text and photographs of the whole collection.

Spink stamp specialist Guy Croton said: ‘This was a once in a lifetime opportunity for philatelists. As it is, it is quite astounding that the original stamps from this pivotal work are still all together. It is not surprising that such an influential collection, that paved the way in British philately, has realised this amount. The new owner has obtained a true philatelic treasure, as well as a valuable piece of British Philatelic History, which we are told will remain intact.’

Get more information on the Penny Black stamp with our 'How to collect Penny Black stamps' feature

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