Bulgaria, 1881, 5s black & orange Lion of Bulgaria, background inverted (Scott 7a), an especially choice example of this very rare 19th century error, which only exists used; strong fresh colors and unusually well-centered for this typically tightly margined stamp; neatly cancelled, Superb, only a small number are known to exist, with this a true condition rarity, Ex-Cunliffe, signed P.Y. Karaivanoff, with his 1961 certificate.
Michel 7K. Suggested Bid $3,500-5,000 (Image)

Suggested Bid $3,500-5,000

Sale No: 755
Lot No:224
Symbol:Cat No:12a

Bulgaria, 1882, 3s orange & yellow Lion of Bulgaria, background inverted (Scott 12a), prior to 2009, most references in various Bulgarian stamp handbooks and catalogues held that this error only existed used, only nine of which had been recorded; this mint example is as fresh as the day it was printed, with bright vivid colors, excellent centering and full o.g. which is lightly hinged, Very Fine, a breathtaking example of this incredibly rare mint error—believed to be the only unused example, Ex-Cunliffe, with 1966 P.F. certificate.
Michel 14K. Suggested Bid $10,000-15,000 (Image)

Suggested Bid $10,000-15,000

Bulgaria, 1882, Lion Rampant, 3s orange & yellow, background inverted (Scott 12a), a brilliantly fresh used example with radiant colors on bright paper, attractively centered, and neat partial c.d.s. postmark, Very Fine, only nine used copies are believed to exist, this amongst the nicest, Ex-Cunliffe, signed P.Y. Karaivanoff, and accompanied by his 1961 certificate.
Michel 14K. Suggested Bid $3,000-4,000 (Image)

Suggested Bid $3,000-4,000