Hong Kong – Scott # 24, used

Description

Hong Kong Scott #24 (issued 1863–71) is a 96-cent gray Queen Victoria definitive, part of the original keyplate series printed by De La Rue & Co. for British Hong Kong. This high-denomination issue features a finely engraved left-facing portrait of Queen Victoria, framed by the characteristic Greek key border and bilingual inscriptions: “HONG KONG” at the top, “九十六仙” (“ninety-six cents”) at left, and “香港” (“Hong Kong”) at right. The denomination “96 CENTS” appears neatly at the bottom.

This used example bears a bold barred oval cancellation, typical of the early Hong Kong postal era. Despite its age and postal wear, the delicate gray-lilac hue and clear design details remain visible. As one of the higher-value stamps in the first De La Rue series, this issue primarily served on heavier or overseas mail and is thus less common in fine condition. Collectors prize it for its elegant engraving, scarcity, and historical context from the early years of Hong Kong’s colonial postal service. A cornerstone for any classic British Empire or Asian philately collection.