Great Britain – Scott # 191, used

Description

Issued in 1912, Great Britain Scott #191 is the 2½d (Two Pence Halfpenny) ultramarine King George V definitive, part of the early George V “Downey Head” series that marked the transition from Edwardian to Georgian stamp design. These issues were introduced shortly after the accession of King George V in 1910 and represent the first definitive stamps of his reign.

The design features a left-facing portrait of King George V, engraved by Bertram Mackennal, set within an ornate oval frame inscribed POSTAGE & REVENUE. Printed in ultramarine by surface printing, the stamp reflects the refined but practical aesthetic of early 20th-century British definitives. The 2½d denomination was a key working value, commonly used for foreign letter rates and heavier inland mail.

Downey Head issues are well known for their production variations and are an important collecting area within Great Britain philately. Used examples such as this one are especially representative of everyday postal use during the pre–World War I period.

This example is offered used, with a clear cancellation, intact perforations, and sound overall condition consistent with normal circulation. A solid representative of early George V definitives, well suited to Great Britain collections, reign-based studies, or early 20th-century postal history.

Country: Great Britain
Year of Issue: 1912
Scott Number: 191
Denomination: 2½d (Two Pence Halfpenny)
Condition: Used