According to “The Robson Lowe Encyclopaedia of British Empire Postage Stamps”, only 0.2% of the Bushire overprints are genuine.
According to Serrane: “Comparison and even expertizing are indispensable”.
First test: The genuine overprint on the first issue measures:
- 12.7-13 mm first line
- 16-17 mm second line
- 13-14.2 mm (including stop) third line.
“Is my stamp genuine…?”
Assume forgery
Although there are different settings with these overprints, most of the letters have a constant shape and form regardless of any overinking and or faulty type lettering in different spots.
A stamp that presents the correct lettering types even with defects can be traced down to a particular setting and position in the sheet.
