Papar D1 FDC

I generally do not collect first day covers as by implication they are philatelic in origin. However, I have a weakness for this cancellation. Its imperfection and distorted nature makes it all the more appealing. 

This is a FDC of the 1949 UPU issue showing a full set of the stamps cancelled at Papar. I do not like large empty spaces on a cover and the the front part of the cover is nicely filled with addresses both in English and Chinese.

A few more examples of this cancellation on piece and stamps. I have trying to work out whether there were different periods when the postmark was in violet and black and concluded that they were used concurrently. 

Another mystery is why the two rings of this cancellation are distorted. One view was that the wrong type of cleaner was used on the rubber temporary handstamp. But then it would have been perfect to start with like the similar ones from Keningau and Semporna. But I have not seen an non distorted cancellation of Papar D1. Was the wrong sort of rubber used which did not set properly? 

The bottom two examples are intriguing. They looked damaged but does not appear distorted with wavy lines. This implies that a different handstamp was used giving a Papar D1 type 2 cancellation.  

Some very uncommon North Borneo cancellations

Something more to enjoy for Christmas. If you do not have the following two cancellations in your collection, keep on trying. Sooner or later you will find them at an acceptable price.

This Labuk & Sugut cancellation has to be one of my favourites. It is so well constructed. This came courtesy of a friendly dealer. It helps to make friends with them. Apart from being knowledgeable they can help with your collecting in the long run.

The Gantian cancellation is bit more uncommon than the L&S as it was in use for less than a year from December 1899 to about August 1900. The office became obsolete with the founding of Jesselton. Any reader who would like more information on Gantian and early Jesselton cancellations should seek a recent article in the Sarawak Journal.

This festive season gives me a chance to share another collecting interest. I bought this in Paris at their street market a few years ago. I prefer cancellations other than black. Christmas Is cancellations are very uncommon and commands good prices whenever they appear on sale. On cover, they are hardly ever seen.