Hello All,

Can anyone explain why the 2/6d value Postage Due stamp is inscribed ‘To Pay’
rather than ‘Postage Due’ as on the lower values?

Regards
Ron

Hi Ron,

Because the higher values were also and more commonly used for other aspects like collecting customs charges.

Regards
James

Hello James,

Thanks for that quick response which is appreciated.

I had wondered if that would be the case but thought that the relevant departments
would have had their own 'revenue' style stamps for that.

Regards.
Ron

The short but interesting exchange between Ron and James triggered my concern with Edward VIII postage dues. .. Can somebody please advise me on a way to read the watermarks on these stamps?

I have tried halogen lamps, normal electric light bulbs, candlelight, and of course a specialist ultra violet light made and sold for stamp collectors. I've tried in every lighting from sunlight to a darkened room. I can see and happily identify the E8R and the St Edward's crown in the margin of a marginal piece, but on the same piece am quite unable to find those elements legible on the stamp.

Yet every dealer and vendor on eBay gives a watermark assurance with every offering. What do they know, or do, that escapes me?

Cheers and many thanks for any help. Robin

Robin, if only! On cover I find E8R and Tudor Crown the most difficult to see. Holding up at an angle to a good North light is still the best. If you are talking just stamps, should not be that difficult, acetate tray with lighter fluid should show the watermark. Dates do not really help except for earlier dates eliminating the possibility. The post offices used up the dues they had and often enough GV stamps are found into the 40's. At least, when you find an E8R one, it is usually worth it as only the 1d and 3d are common.
Happy hunting
James

Hi James, Many thanks for the prompt reply.Forgive me if I seem a bit obtuse, but are you saying I can place a mint stamp in a tray and drip lighter fuel on it t6o see the watermark? That won't affect the gum at all?

Robin,
I do not collect mint stamps so maybe someone else's advice should be taken there.
Sorry
James