Gustamps and the Maltese Cross

Continuing with stamp collectors information about the famous 1d Black stamp, Gustamps explain about the Maltese Cross. Gustamps explain that the first postmarks used on 1d Blacks were in the design of a Maltese Cross. Gustamps point out that the Post Office soon realised that the Maltese Cross was not always clearly visible on a black stamp. Gustamps explain that so that the stamp could not be re-used the ink colour which was favoured was red. Gustamps go on to say that the 1d Red issued in 1841 normally had Black ink on the post mark which was easy to see on the red stamp. Gustamps say look out for Maltese Cross postmarks with numbers in the crosses. This type of Maltese Cross postmark is much scarcer and sought after by specialist collectors. Watch out for another penny black blog from Gustamps soon.