Rare stamps & postal history masterpieces | The David Holl Collection

Published: Wed 4th Dec

Oscar Young and Gabriel Gold share their highlights from The David Holl Collection of Great Britain, including Important First Day Covers.

Bid live on 11th December at Stanley Gibbons Baldwin's
View auction: https://tinyurl.com/ha3xtt8z

Discover the unparalleled David Holl Collection of Great Britain, a treasure trove that brings the story of British postal history to life. This collection spans from pre-stamp covers to Queen Elizabeth II commemorative issues, featuring a breathtaking range of rarities. From issued stamps on cover and rare stationery to unique first-day covers, each piece captures key historical moments through fascinating cancellations, significant dates, and unique usages, such as exhibition and commemorative mailings. It's a must-see for both dedicated philatelists and history enthusiasts!

Collection Highlights:

A pristine 1840 1d Black stamp used on its official first day of issue, May 6th, 1840, with excellent margins and a clear datestamp—a true gem for collectors.

Lot 44: An unused 1d Black Plate 4, mounted on the first edition of the Post Magazine, blending philatelic artistry and historical significance.

Lot 92: A spectacular first-day cover for the Edward VII 7d issue, featuring an eye-catching five-color franking, unseen for over 20 years.

Lots 168 and 169: Rare India Round Table Conference commemoratives from the UK-India transitional era, one with a direct link to Mahatma Gandhi.

Don't miss the King George V issues, a rich compilation of Royal Cypher, Block Cypher, and Photogravure definitives. The collection also boasts commemorative highlights like the 1924–25 British Empire Exhibition and Postal Union Congress series, presented in immaculate large-format stationery with full sets—perfect for both casual and advanced collectors.

With its depth, historical value, and rare offerings, the David Holl Collection presents an extraordinary opportunity to own iconic pieces of British postal history.

"With its breadth of material and historical significance, the David Holl Collection offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire some of the most iconic and intriguing items in British philately. Each piece tells a unique story, offering collectors a tangible connection to the events and innovations that shaped postal history." - Scott Bradley, Head of GB Stamps