Auction 321 - 332 Europe & Overseas Asia / Africa, Europe A –Z, Collections & Accumulations - Day 4

1851/52: 6 cr. slate blue in a horizontal pair, 9 cr. dark violet-brown-lilac, two single examples and two pairs, and 60 cr. pale scarlet, a superb single example, used on registered cover from SIENA to MACERATA in the Papal States, tied by Rombi mute obliterator, "P.D. SIENA" datestamp in black (11 GEN. 1853) and "PER CONSEGNA" handstamp, both in black alongside the extensive franking, MACERATA arrival cds (16 Jan. 55) on reverse. As to be expected for a franking of that extent, some adhesives are touched while the centerpiece of this unbelievable franking, the 60 crazie is of exceptional quality showing 'interspazio di gruppo' at base, parts of the neighbouring adhesives included at base and at right as well as huge margins at left and top. Tears in the front of the cover are skillfully repaired resulting in a most attractive presentation of this enormous 126 crazie franking. Certs. A. Diena (1970), G. Bolaffi (1970), E. Diena (1981) Sassone = € 314'400.rnNote: An item full of postal history interest despatched prior to the adherence of the Papal States to the Lega austro-italica in July 1853. Thus the bilateral contracts in force until June 1853 resulted in a rate of 63 crazie for a weight of 1 ounce and 12 - 18 denari, doubled for registration.rnProvenance: Robson Lowe sale (March 1970), lot 1234.