Latest Auction Achievements

Success for The Cyriax Collection

Stanley Gibbons, the renowned name in philately and collectibles, is proud to announce the remarkable success of "The Cyriax Collection of Great Britain" stamp auction held 1 November 2023. This exceptional Great Britain Auction witnessed an impressive turnout of stamp enthusiasts and collectors, with nearly 90% of the items finding new homes. The results reflect the enduring popularity of Stanley Gibbons as the premier destination for selling Great Britain stamps.

High demand, bolstered by robust internet and pre-bidding activity, led to higher-than-anticipated realisations for Great Britain material. It is clear that Stanley Gibbons continues to set the standard for those looking to buy and sell exceptional philatelic pieces.

One of the standout highlights of the auction was Lot 250, a spectacular example of the rare 10d red-brown plate 2 “abnormal” on dated piece, which garnered significant attention. The estimated sale price was £4,000 – 5,000, however it ultimately sold for a total sum of £10,200, including the Buyer's Premium.

(Above) Lot 250

A staggering £8,400 (including BP) was reached in for  Lot 117, the 1841 1d Red-brown pair of entires both tied by red & black MC's, which saw two passionate collectors battle it out.

(Above) Lot 117

Interest in illustrated and decorated envelopes from the Queen Victoria era was also strong. Lot 171, the 1866 watercolour, one of the finest hand illustrated covers the experts at Stanley Gibbons have ever handled, was estimated to sell for between £1,200 and £1,400, but ultimately sold for £3,600 (including BP). Depicting a Herald with a 1d rose-red, cut to shape to fit the illustration, this example was sent to the Duchess of Somerset by Major Gen Sir Arthur Ellis, equerry to the Prince of Wales in 1867, clearly visible on the scroll carried by the Herald.

And Lot 133 (shown to the left), a spectacular printed 1847 ‘Temperance’ envelope sold for £3,240 (including BP), having been estimated at £1,200 – 1,400. Printed in 1847 with the intention of encouraging abstinence from alcohol, the asset has traded hands infrequently.

The Cyriax Collection sold for over £300,000 in total including buyer’s premium.
The success of "The Cyriax Collection of Great Britain" auction reaffirms Stanley Gibbons' position as a market leader in the world of stamp collecting. While other competitors have faced challenges recently with Great Britain material, our dedication to excellence and our ability to connect collectors with rare and sought-after stamps remain unwavering.

"Stanley Gibbons is delighted with the incredible response to this auction," said Iain Murphy, Managing Director of Stanley Gibbons and Baldwin’s Auction. "We are committed to providing collectors with a trusted platform to buy and sell the most extraordinary philatelic pieces. The Cyriax Collection of Great Britain auction's success is a testament to our ongoing commitment to providing collectors with the most accurate and exciting auctions in the industry.”

Stanley Gibbons would like to express its thanks to all the bidders, collectors, and enthusiasts who participated in making "The Cyriax Collection of Great Britain" auction a resounding success

Thinking of selling your collection?

We welcome quality philatelic stock for our upcoming auctions and are currently looking for new consignments. Speak to our team about consigning in our upcoming auctions by filling in the form at our valuations page.