[hodgetts]

I found these Royal Wedding omnibus stamps that has "specimen" overprinted. Anyone know why this was done? Seems to be just on a few countries.
Geoff Hodgetts

Hi Geoff, I don't have ready access to Gibbons' catalogues, nor any from the Australia/New Zealand area, and I've found almost nothing about these anywhere on the 'net which describes them. It appears, though, that they are legitimate items (perhaps remainders?) that are sold to collectors, but with no postal value. Perhaps a cash generating 'scheme' with no obligation to provide a service? Bruce

Thanks Bruce. They were in with the other "legit" stamps from the various Commonwealth countries that issued stamps for the wedding. I think they came as part of a new issues subscription service back in the '80's that I signed up for. So, probably as you say, meant for collectors but not for postage.