Came across an article in BNA Topics (1967 V24N1 Jan: Graham Fairbanks). The article pertains to the stamp's history on covers but the following quote adds some perspective to this thread:
Quote:
Probably, "the last word" on these stamps will be found in the late Nicholas Argenti's (hereafter referred to as "N.A.") book of 1962 and the Postal History of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick of our editor, of 1964.
.... the value was issued about October l, 1860, engraved by the American Bank Note Company, on toned yellowish, or white wove paper; shades range from yellowish green to deep green, perf. 11 3/4. Also reported on very thick "dead white" paper - I have never seen it thus, although have a 12 1/2c on this paper.
The earliest known "cents" cover is October 18, 1860 (12 1/2c to England, ex N,A.).
Due to the "remaïnders", 8 1/2c unused singles and blocks are still common, but in used-singles are scarce, pairs quite rare and N.A. states "a few blocks exist" - although I believe he had none, nor can I recall any ever offered.
The 8 1/2c is by far the rarest "cents" value on cover, due both to restricted usages and period of same, which were:
October 1/60 to May 1/62 British packet rate to U.S.A., Bermuda, Newfoundland and St. Pierre & Miquelon (latter up to 1868). Also to Cape Breton, by sea, except for the months December-January-February and March, when the Newfoundland packet did not call'.
After May l, 1962, the rate changed to 10c, except for St. Pierre and Miquelon.
Anyone interested in the stamp's cover history can read the entire article at the following link:
http://bnatopics.org/journals/1967/...o.%20251.pdf
Posted 12/18/2010 1:40 pm
