Hong Kong – Scott # 119, used

Description

Hong Kong – Scott #119 (1912) Used

This is the 1912 Fifty Cents Black on Green issue of Hong Kong (Scott #119), from the celebrated King George V definitive series printed by De La Rue & Co. in London. It features the engraved profile of King George V, finely detailed in black within an ornate rectangular frame printed on green paper — a color combination that imparts both dignity and clarity typical of early 20th-century colonial design.

The frame includes the bilingual inscriptions “HONG KONG” at the top and “香港” (Hong Kong) vertically along the sides, with the denomination “50 CENTS” prominently displayed at the base. The geometric corner motifs and intricate border flourishes are classic elements of De La Rue’s craftsmanship, reflecting precision and visual balance.

This example is used, showing a clean circular postmark that leaves the royal portrait unobscured. The color contrast between the deep black ink and pale green paper remains crisp and strong, highlighting the fine engraving detail and high production standards of De La Rue’s colonial output.

Technical Details:

• Issue Date: 1912

• Denomination: 50 Cents

• Color: Black on Green

• Watermark: Multiple Crown CA

• Perforation: 14

• Printer: De La Rue & Co., London

• Condition: Used; light circular cancel, full perforations, sharp impression

Historical Context:
The 1912 definitive series was the first issued under King George V and remained in use for more than a decade, symbolizing Hong Kong’s importance in the British postal network across Asia. The 50¢ value served heavier international mail and registered correspondence, making postally used examples like this both practical artifacts and collectible classics.