10 centesimi orange
Sassone 17
40 centesimi carmine rose
Sassone 20
The Quindici Stamps <<-- : -->> Stamps of Umberto I
In 1863 a new set of stamps was printed in London by De La Rue showing a portrait of the King designed by Leonardo C.Wyon on all except the two low values (1c and 2c) which were deemed too valueless to warrant the use of the King's portrait.
On the 1st May 1866 versions printed in Turin using the De La Rue plates were issued. Distinguishing the two printings is very difficult unless you have clearly dated postmarks.
The 10c and 40c are amongst the most highly prized mint stamps of the period.
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10 centesimi orange
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40 centesimi carmine rose
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15 centesimi light blue
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In 1865 the basic letter postage rate went up from 15c to 20c. As there was no stamp of that denomination, it was decided that the stocks of 15c stamps should be overprinted with the new value.
Astonishingly, three different plates were used, the original having no dots in the design, the second having four and the third twelve. SG list these in reverse order. Only proofs of those with dots have been found without the overprint.
20c on 15c type 1 - no dots
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20c on 15c type 2 - 4 dots
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20c on 15c type 3 - 12 dots
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The Official stamps no longer used were overprinted in 1878 for use for the printed paper rate of 2c.
A cover is shown using the 2c on 5lire.
Letter from Due Ville to Sandrigo
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The Quindici Stamps <<-- :
-->> Stamps of Umberto I
Main Italian Stamps Index
Kingdom of Italy Index
