Overprints Pt.3. Distinguishing Die 1 from Die 2 on the 2d stamps.[149]

Distinguishing Type 1 versus Type 2 Stamps

Overprints on sheet stamps by Thom and Harrison used both die types of the British 2d stamp. Harrison coil stamps, made from vertical cuts of sheet stamps, are known with both die types.   

     Alexander Thom & Co. Ltd.   (Figure 1, Dies 1 & 2 )       

     Harrison & Sons, Ltd. London   (Figure 2.  Dies 1 & 2)

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE DIES

Die 1 has finer frame lines at the top and sides. Close to the solid background.
– Four complete lines of shading are between the top of the King’s head and the oval frame
– Thin white border around the “TWO PENCE” value tablet.

Die 2 has thicker frame lines at the top and sides, close to the solid background
– Three lines of shading between the top of the King’s head and the oval frame.
– Thicker white border line around the “TWO PENCE” value tablet.

MAGNIFIED VIEWS OF THE TOP.  THE BLACK AND WHITE MAGNIFICATION BETTER SHOWS THE LINES ABOVE THE KING’S HEAD.  (Figure 3).

MAGNIFIED VIEWS OF THE BOTTOM OF THE FRAME AND VALUE BOX.  (Figure 4).
Combined picture in the center shows the differences in line thickness between the two dies.

Contributed by Barry Cousins

3/20/2019