British Empire - Day 6

1860 (Jan 26) envelope sent to the Philippines, with GB 1856 4d, 6d and 1s tied by neat "A26" numerals and by blue Gibraltar cds, reverse with Hong Kong transit and Manilla arrival, with Philippines "2" reales due hs below the franking, the 4d with surface abrasion and 1s with pulled corner perf., minor soiling on reverse, one of the most spectacular covers known showing the first surface printed set on cover and unique with the Philippines postage due; ex Grant Glassco (RL 1969, lot 1139); Barclays Bank (Phillips 1987).