Great Britain #33 1p - 1864 Unused With Plate #'s in Side Scrolls

By 1857, after more than 15 years as Britain's workhorse postage stamp, the master plate for the 1-penny Queen Victoria was becoming worn. To improve the design, engravers strengthened lines on the plate, creating what is classified as Type II. The most obvious differences are the heavier shading around the Queen's eye, nose and mouth. Further changes were made in 1864 by adding sheet position letters to the upper corners. (Great Britain #33)