I know there are censuses for US Scott #1 and #2 covers. Is there a similar census for GB Scott #1, the Penny Black?
I acquired the cover pictured below earlier this year. It's a fascinating piece of history. The recipient was a Navy or prize agent by the name of John Hinxman of London (1784-1847). The sender was Lewis Weston Dillwyn (1778-1855) of Swansea, a British porcelain manufacturer, naturalist and Whig member of Parliament. The letter concerns the passing of "our dear Friend" Captain Frederick Hickey (1775-1840), a "Master and Commander" type individual. (That explains my Stamp Community name.) I wrote up my research in an article that I titled, "A Naturalist, A Prize Agent, and A Navy Captain: A Penny Black Story." I've posted that to my blog, and I hope to get it published somewhere. Suggestions on that would be most welcome.
I would love to learn something of the provenance of this cover. I recently contacted the dealer from whom I purchased it, and I hope to hear what he knows of it. I have been in touch with a descendant of John Hinxman who told me his estate took a number of years to settle, so this cover might have been sold off as late as 1880.
BTW, the cover is genuine per the PF. See certificate #587390.
