Hong Kong – Scott # 91, used

Description

Hong Kong – Scott #91 (1903) Used

This is the 1903 Five Cents Orange & Green issue of Hong Kong (Scott #91), featuring King Edward VII in profile within an ornate frame that incorporates both English and Chinese inscriptions. Issued as part of the Edward VII definitive series (1903–1911), it reflects the transitional period of British colonial design—combining Victorian formality with modernized engraving techniques.

Printed by De La Rue & Co., the stamp shows exceptional engraving detail in the royal portrait, framed by geometric borders and bilingual characters translating the denomination (“Five Cents”). The two-tone color scheme—orange frame with a green center—makes this one of the most visually appealing lower-value issues of the set.

This example is used, bearing a light circular cancellation that leaves the portrait visible and demonstrates legitimate postal use within the British colony.

Technical Details:

• Issue Date: 1903

• Denomination: 5 Cents

• Color: Orange & Green

• Watermark: Multiple Crown CA

• Perforation: 14

• Printer: De La Rue & Co., London

• Condition: Used; light cancel, sound perforations, well-centered for the issue

Historical Context:
These stamps were the first definitive series to depict King Edward VII, replacing the long-lived Queen Victoria issues. Used throughout the colony during a period of commercial expansion and modernization, they remain a cornerstone of early 20th-century Hong Kong philately.