Hansons Auctioneers & Valuers hosted a highly successful auction of stamps and postal history on the 11th February 2025, at their Etwall saleroom. With more than 130 exceptional lots up for grabs, the auction generated considerable interest, and many items far exceeded expectations.
The star of the auction was a stunning collection of aviation-themed covers, divided into four lots. Lot 57 showcased a set of signed flight covers, including autographs from distinguished pilots such as Johnnie Johnson, the legendary RAF hero from 617 Squadron (The Dambusters). These covers, commemorating the 44th anniversary of the 1943 Dams Raid, fetched £900—an impressive 10 times their pre-auction estimate.
Another key aviation lot, No. 53, featured a large collection of Concorde-themed covers spread across 10 albums. Signed by pilots and crew members, the collection documented the history of the iconic supersonic aircraft. Intense bidding saw the lot surpass its original estimate of £80 – £120, ultimately selling for £850.
Lot 55, a specialist album of 37 flight covers marking the sinking of the German battleship “The Tirpitz” in November 1944, achieved £150—four times its estimated value of £40 – £60. Similarly, modern counterparts in Lot 56 garnered £160, also four times their anticipated value.
One of the major highlights was a highly valuable collection of QEII folded booklets, which sold for £1,000—double the estimated price.
Interest was also high for Great Britain stamps, with Lot 19, featuring over 600 sets of mint stamps directly from the British Philatelic Bureau in Edinburgh, selling for £900—more than double its estimate. Additional activity in GB First Day Covers, Queen Victoria stamps, and Commonwealth issues helped make the auction a resounding success.
Stamps are a reflection of nations, and we are proud to showcase this significant collectables market through Hansons’ Stamp Auctions. For centuries, the post office has played a vital role in societies worldwide, which is why stamps and postal memorabilia have consistently been in high demand and continue to deliver record-breaking results at Hansons.
Looking ahead, Hansons Auctioneers is now accepting entries for their next specialist auction of stamps and postal history, scheduled for Thursday, 22nd May 2025, at their Etwall saleroom in Derbyshire. For more details, visit www.hansonsauctioneers.co.uk or contact [email protected].
Auction Information
Auction: Hansons Derbyshire February Four Day Auction
Auction date: 11th February 2025 | 1pm
Location: Hansons Derbyshire Saleroom
Auction contact: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
