There are two version, each with two sub versions.
The main difference between those stamps, is whether the honeycomb is placed vertically, or horizontally.
![]() |
vertically placed honeycombs or horizontally placed honeycombs |
When we see the honeycomb (or hexagonal) placed vertically, we need to check if it's type 3 or 5.
Type 3 (and later also type 4) are German printings, type 5 (and later also type 6) are Italian printings.
![]() |
1st bold hexagonals - 2nd fine hexagonals |
In most cases the German types are easily to recognise, as the watermark is clearly visible.
The hexagonals appear as broad, fat, rounded, where the Italian hexagonals (type 4 and 6) are more refinded, thin, angular.
If the watermark isn't clearly 'narrow and fine' we're dealing with a German printing (type 3 or 4)
If the watermark is more difficult to see without a watermark detector, clearly angular and fine, it's the Italian printing (type 5 or 6)
Type 3 (vertical - broad)
Type 5 (vertical - small)
Type 4 or 6
Same remarks as above, but now the hexagonals are placed horizontally.
The Italian printings are more fine as can be seen in the picture.
![]() |
1st bold hexagonals - 2nd fine hexagonals |
Type 6 (horizontal - small)
to be continued ...
No comments:
Post a Comment