BWISC Bulletin No 9 - April 1956


JAMAICA

Straight Line Cancellation

"The earliest type postmark consisted simply of the word JAMAICA in a straight line in large serif letters 35 mm. long by 6 mm. high. The earliest date of use known to me on a cover is in my collection dated 17/5/1762, which was originally in the late Mr. Nicholson's collection. The latest date known is 28/9/1781. A cover said to have this type postmark was in Harmer's sale of November 26th, 1945, and was stated to be dated 1758, and sold for £9. I cannot find out among my Jamaica friends anyone who saw or who can vouch for this cover, which would be some four years earlier than any previously recorded. I wrote to Harmers' in 1952 and Mr. Cyril Harmer kindly informed me that the cover was purchased by a collector living at that time in Puerto Rico or the Philippines. Our Bulletin now enjoys a world-wide circulation, and I am writing this in the hope that a collector in Great Britain or abroad may be able to give me some information as to where the cover is and if it is dated 1758 as stated."

(Contributed by G Collett)

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