Eritrea - Great Britain – Occupation of Italian Colonies 1942 – M.E.F. 1d red, Cairo printing – Very rare

Great Britain – British Occupation of the former Italian Colonies – 1942

An important and rare block of 40 stamps (5 sheets of 8) with a value of 1d red, British issue 1937–1938 overprinted “M.E.F.” (Middle East Forces) for posting correspondence in the former Italian colonies during the British occupation.

First issue denominated “del Cairo” – Sassone

A piece of particular interest for its exceptional size and preservation in multiples.

The block is accompanied by the original expert certificate Luigi Sirotti no. 2217, Milan, 11 November 2006, in which the expert describes it as:

“rare block (one of the two thus far known to me)”

and certifies that it comprises specimens:

“new, original, with intact original gum, with original overprints and free of defects.”

The first specimen of each row is also signed by the expert.