Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: SW1002 - Latin America, including the Tito Collection - Part I
Lot: 501

1862, 15 c. blue, vertical tête-bêche in block of five including sheet margins at left and top, large margined in other places, positions 2 / 8-9 /15-16, showing at position 8 the inverted cliché, with remarkably fresh impression, unused without gum. This multiple originates from a block of eight that was preserved in good condition until 1930 when sold to Alfred Lichtenstein, being presented with some imperfections in the Dale-Lichtenstein sale in 1970; in 1982 the David Feldman auction house of Geneva was entrusted with its restoration and three seriously damaged adjoining stamps were cut off at right, with selected other adhesives being skilfully cleaned, some creases ironed, position 15 repaired and one tear at position 8 closed, none of which detract from this gem. Only 386 inverted clichés were printed being only present in one position in the sheet. Illustrated in the renowned catalogues of the Anphilex´96 (New York) and Claridge´s (London) prestigious exhibitions of great collections and single rarities of the world, as well as in the ´Grand Prix Club Book´ on page 198, being also the sole title page illustration of the important Galvalisi sale. One of only three tête-bêche examples in existence, being unique as an unused block, of superior appearance than the other multiple (being larger than a pair) containing this error in used condition. One of the three or four most important items in Argentine philately, as well as a gem of world philately. Cert. Del Mazo and Solari. Kn 9a. Ex Dale-Lichtenstein, Mautalén, Sabbatini, Craveri, Alemany, Galvalisi and ´´Patagonia´´ collection. Starting Price US$ 80,000

Sold for
$140,000