Spud Papers – British Guiana

1860. 1, 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24 Cents.

Although each value of these stamps is from the same matrix, two dies are found of the 1, 2, 8, and 12 cents. The sole difference is in the lower lettering, which in the earliest has the value and CENTS farther apart than in the later stamps. Only a single type exists of the 4 and 24 cents.

The forgeries are badly perforated with diamond-shaped dents. It will suffice to add, that the forged are all inscribed RETIMUSOUE, to prevent anyone from being taken in.

The genuine have PETIMUSQUE, but with the tail of Q badly defined.

6 Cents

Genuine

The background, with the exception of the corner ornaments, is solid; and the lettering is well formed, V and 1 are separate.

Forged

Very coarse; above and below the lettered circle is a white oblong space, with three lines; and at sides are short strokes of shading. The q in the inscription is almost square. The Roman numerals touch each other. Neither of the letters N have a top stroke on the left side.

24 Cents

Genuine

Sky heavily shaded; mast of vessel does not touch the circle, but the bow does. Pattern in circle is in the center of the lower portion. Corner ornaments clear and graceful.

Forged

A poor lithograph, having a whitey washed-out look. Mast of ship touches lettered circle, but the bow is some distance away from it. Pattern at bottom of circle too much to the left, and nearer the upper line than the lower.

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

See also –> Album Weeds – British Guiana