Monaco First Issue 1885

 Genuine Stamps 1885 Sc1-10

The following was advertised as a "proof set" but is possibly a modern reproduction in nature given the lack of fine detail

Forgeries

Fournier sold these as sets, in small sheets and cancelled and unused singles.

These are very well done and account for most Monaco forgeries which have a 2:1 ratio over genuine issues sold.

Fournier full sheets

Fournier cancels

"MONACO 4E./13 NOV. 85 PRINCIPAUTE" in a double circle

"MONACO 3E/17 MARS 91 PRINCIPAUTE" in a double circle

"MONACO 3E/27 DEC 89 PRINCIPAUTE" in a double circle

"MONTE-CARLO 4E./12 OCT. 87 PTE DE MONACO" in a double circle

"MONTE-CARLO 4E/11 90 PTE DE MONACO" in a double circle 

"PRINCIPAUTE DE MONACO */16 87" in a single wavy circle

Sperati Forgeries

Sperati made forgeries of the 75c and the 1Fr

1885 Issue 75c

There is a white spot in the right leg of "A" of "PRICIPAUTE"

There is a white dot above and slightly to the right of forehead hairline

The top of the "C" of "PRICIPAUTE" is weak with patchy color

The top arm of the "C" of "PRICIPAUTE" is detached, or nearly so

The outer frameline has a break above the "A" of "PRICIPAUTE"

There is a white scratch that runs from the base of the bust to the circle below

 

Other Forgeries

As noted they outnumber genuine 2:1

It is noted they come from several locals and forgers.

Anyone interested in finding out more should get the following (I have not read it)

"Les Timbres-Poste de Monaco La Serie Charles III" by P.G. Almasy (1945)

Note the lack of names at bottom

Again no names on bottom

Possibly an Oneglia?