1840 2d BLUE

The 2d, or Two Pence Blue, was the second stamp issued after the penny black. It was first sold at the London Inland Revenue Office starting on the 6th of May in 1840. In many cases, a Two Pence Blue (2d Blue) is more rare than a Penny Black. At a certain point down the line, new inks were chosen for the 2d Blue, but since the first and second versions of the stamps were virtually identical in color, white lines were added to the top and bottom of the stamp. These came to be called the "white lines added issues", which are more ubiquitous but still treasured by collectors for their amazing blue color.

The Two Pence Blue is a lovely stamp, a pleasure to own and explore, and by far one of our favorites.