Worldwide & Great Britain - Dec. 2023, Lot 1420

CANCELLATIONS - VERY RARE LONDON USAGE OF 'SALISBURY PINS' TRIAL "683/E" CANCEL ON 5d-RATE COVER TO FRANCE; 3 Jan. 1859 EL from London (v. fine small blue c.d.s. on flap) to St. Etienne franked for the 5d rate by 1d Red 'Stars' and 4d Rose-Carmine (latter with closed tear at right) both tied by mainly very fine rare Experimental small circular "683/E" cancellations with central pins (which are indented through the stamp and the letter paper), also having a red oval London "PD" (Paid to Destination) on the front. Marvellous example of this short-lived London Experiment; the cancellation with pins removed was later - 1871 - when it was sent to Salisbury for use there. Few covers with this London usage 1st-Type 'Pins' cancel are known; this usage to an overseas destination is truly amazing! This cover has previously been described as; "Probably the best cover with this cancellation in existence." [Ex Dubus; realised £1,430 at auction back in June 1989. Also ex 'Otis'; Cavendish March 2013, lot 888 - realised £2,400+BP. Ex Gavin Fryer.] Cross Reference : OVERSEAS DESTINATIONS, FRANCE, MACHINE CANCELLATIONS, WILTSHIRE