Spud Papers – Austria

Few stamps have been so often imitated as the early Austrian Mercury trio; and few forgeries can be easier detected. The blue stamp is so common, that it can be purchased for a penny from any respectable dealer; and as the genuine, yellow, and red are from the same die, amateurs can soon test any copies of the latter they may come across. For the present, our purpose is solely with the Hamburg productions now in the market.

1851. Blue, Yellow and Red

Genuine

Background clear, much darker towards the bottom. Stroke after ZEITUNGS, and period after STAMPEL. Last named word commences just beneath the front of tunic.

Forged

Very bad indeed, face with a “half-baked” expression, and background whitey and poorly done. Period after ZEITUNGS. Front of tunic comes above the right side of of T in STAMPEL. No period after word last named.

From “The Spud Papers” by Atless, Pemberton & Earée, 1871-1881.

See also —> Album Weeds – Austria