Lot Details

1871, 200 mon vermilion, earliest printing, plate I, position 1, just touched at lower right, tied by a large "Kensazumi" handstamp in regular script (kaisho) on the reverse of a cover from Ejiri to nearby Numazu.

Manuscript dateline (Meiji 4) 3.18, corresponding to 7 May 1871 (Gregorian).

An important early usage, representing the earliest recorded application of the large Kensazumi handstamp from Ejiri. The clarity of the strike and the positional significance of the adhesive further enhance the desirability of this cover within the classic Dragon issue postal history. A well-preserved and highly presentable example.

Rate: 100 mon basic rate plus an additional 100 mon for delivery beyond 2 ri outside the standard delivery circuit, yet within 1 ri under kobin regulations; separate area rate of the first rate period.

Reference: Illustrated in Gallery, Vol. 2, p. 2; Dragon Covers, p. 5.