British Dependency. Elizabeth II gold Proof 5 Crown (5 oz) 1990 PR69 Ultra Cameo NGC, Pobjoy mint, KM1501. A dramatical and hefty, virtually pristine Proof commemorating the famous Penny Black stamp, blackened at the mint. The originally planned issue was 199, however Krause reports a mintage of only 99 examples. A stellar selection highlighting the skill and artistry of Pobjoy mint, and a fitting tribute as the mint's recent announcement of their closure at the end of 2023 marks the end of 58 years of production. Launched in 1840, the Penny Black stamp proudly holds the distinction of being the world's first adhesive postage stamp used in a public postal system. Its innovative design, inked in an elegant black and featuring a profile of Queen Victoria, set the template for the standard designs of many stamps to follow. The introduction of the Penny Black transformed the process of sending mail, democratizing communication as it established a uniform postage rate regardless of the distance within Great Britain. This novelty spawned the era of accessible public communication through written letters. Still, despite its significant print run, the Penny Black's survival in excellent condition is a rarity, fueling its desirability among collectors. HID09801242017 © 2023 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

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