Telegraph Department Handstamp

A number of Telegraph Department / Branch handstamps are known - probably used for administrative purposes - but only one type has been seen postally used

• A framed four-lined handstamp within an outer and inner rectangular frame with corners cut off the outer frame and measuring 28.5 x 39 mm. The outer frame has the words 'POST AND TELEGRAPH DEPARTMENT' around the sides, a five digit number preceded by a letter in the inner frame, the word 'QUEENSLAND' underneath, and the bottom line comprising the date with day in two digits, month in three letters and year in two digits. Two examples are known postally used, both in blue ink and dated 3 May 1891 and 5 April 1895. Rated 5R

Telegraph Department Handstamp postally used

1891

Telegraph Department Handstamp dated 3 May 1891 and rated 5R. Seen in an exhibit

1895

Telegraph Department Handstamp dated 5 April 1895 and rated 5R. Seen in Mossgreen auction no 89 lot no 951