Lot 8087
1881: 2 1/2d. blue, pl. 19 horizontal pair used on cover to the Oriental Bank Corporation, Hong Kong franked at single rate tied by London duplexes (Dec 9), found to be over 1/2 ounce and struck with 'T' mark and scarce VALUE OF STAMPS (5d.) / TO BE COLLECTED (10d.) in black with amounts in manuscript. Reverse with HONG KONG arrival cds (Jan 24, 1881) in black. A fine and unusual cover.
The Oriental Bank Corp., Hong Kong, was the first bank in Hong Kong to issue banknotes in Hong Kong. The bank was established in 1842. In 1884, the bank encountered severe difficulties and was reconstituted as the New Oriental Bank Corporation. Nevertheless the bank failed to survive and closed in 1892.
