Stamps and Postal History

Dear Friends and Collectors,

Before the summer recess, we are delighted to present our latest auction, comprising 422 carefully selected lots, a genuine journey through time and the history of communication. As always, our focus has been on material of the highest calibre, with a meticulous selection of beautiful and rare items destined to satisfy the most discerning collectors and investors seeking the finest quality.

At the heart of this sale lies an extraordinary survey of the Italian Area, a section rich in historical significance, within which shine two exceptional gems destined to become the undisputed highlights of the most prestigious collections.

Lot 168 presents what is unanimously regarded as the rarest commemorative issue of the Kingdom of Italy: the 1928 Militia issue in changed colours (220A/223A), comprising the set of four values printed in altered colours for the Colonies but left without overprint. The set is offered in superb condition, with full original gum and remarkable freshness, accompanied by certificates issued by Colla and Bolaffi (100% financial guarantee). The pre-sale estimate is €20,000–25,000.

We continue with Lot 191, a golden opportunity for specialists and collectors of Authorized Private Postal Services, represented by the celebrated S.A.B.E. (Società Anonima Recapito Espresso) Quadriga issue, comprising the three miniature sheets (13/15). These mint examples, with full original gum, are distinguished by their outstanding and exceptionally well-preserved condition. Accompanied by certificates from E. Diena and Sorani, this remarkable rarity combines the appeal of period graphic design with outstanding documentary significance and carries an estimate of €15,000–20,000.

The catalogue continues with a succession of carefully curated sections designed to offer collectors an outstanding range of material, spanning the period from the Kingdom of Italy through to the present day. The Foreign Countries section broadens the perspective beyond Italy's borders through a refined selection of stamps and postal history from around the world. Every lot has been chosen with the utmost attention to quality, favouring freshness of colour, fine centring, and historical postal significance.

This is followed by a fascinating section devoted to Illustrated and Advertising Postcards, offering a captivating glimpse into the customs, graphic arts, and society of the twentieth century. Through these small paper masterpieces, collectors will rediscover rare advertising pieces and historic views that perfectly combine postal collecting with the timeless appeal of vintage design.

As is customary, the catalogue concludes with the ever-popular Lots and Collections section, dedicated to the spirit of research and discovery. This traditional section features stocks, thematic groups, and unexamined accumulations, offering countless opportunities for both collectors and dealers alike.

As always, our specialists remain at your complete disposal to provide additional photographs, detailed condition reports, or to arrange a personal viewing of any of the lots.

We sincerely hope that within these pages you will discover the missing piece to enrich your collection. We wish you an enjoyable reading of the catalogue and every success with your bidding.

We wish you all a successful auction!

Auction information:

Luca Gazzi
Head of Department
luca.gazzi@auctiongallery.it

Silvia Mariotto
Assistant
silvia.mariotto@krusoart.com

Condition Report
offerte@auctiongallery.it
+39 055 0457959

Pre-auction bids
Silvia Mariotto
silvia.mariotto@krusoart.com
+39 02 87215920

Monica Matteini
offerte@auctiongallery.it
+39 055 0457959

Collection of lots:
Monica Matteini
offerte@auctiongallery.it
monica.matteini@auctiongallery.it
+39 055 0457959

Purchased lots may be picked up or shipped, by appointment, starting on the sixth day following the date on which the buyer’s payment is credited, at the Auction Gallery headquarters: Via Aretina, 18R - 50136 Florence