‘The material on show was very rare, with most items never seen before by members.’ This was the introduction from Simon Richards, RDP, FRPSL, President of the Royal Philatelic Society London, to the display of Indian Postal Stationery given to the Society by Sandeep Jaiswal FRPSL on 26 February. Sandeep had journeyed for the meeting from Rhode Island in the USA, where the snow was so deep he had to obtain special permission to travel.
The display provided a detailed study of British India postal stationery issued during the reign of King George VI. Included were die and paper varieties, printing errors and varieties and shades, while special emphasis was given to unusual and interesting usages.
Giving the Vote of Thanks, Peter Cockburn FRPSL commented that the members had been ‘extremely privileged to see an amazing and comprehensive display’. Among the many fascinating items shown, he highlighted the analysis of indicia and imprints, wrappers including proofs never seen before, Prisoner of War postcards, stamped telegraph forms and postal orders. Also included was stationery from the Indian Princely States, where Peter noted that postal usage must be unusual as some was in existence for only a short time.
Sandeep was presented with the Society’s plaquette and Certificate of Appreciation by Simon Richards.
