84293 1841 1D RED PL.5 (SG7) LETTERED DC FIRST STATE IN RED (SPEC AS29)/DISTINCTIVE MALTESE CROSS OF LEEDS (SPEC B1tl) USED ON COVER.

1841 1D RED PL.5 (SG7) LETTERED DC FIRST STATE IN RED (SPEC AS29)/DISTINCTIVE MALTESE CROSS OF LEEDS (SPEC B1tl) USED ON COVER. 1841 letter Leeds to 'Mr. R. Thirlby, Ibstock, Ashby de la Zouch' with a good to fine 1d red from plate 5 (SG7), state one in red (Spec AS29) but state three of the plate, lettered DC, four close to fine margins tied GOOD TO FINE STRIKE OF THE DISTINCTIVE MALTESE CROSS OF LEEDS. On reverse LEEDS date stamp MY 28 1841. Stamp clearly shows the weaker check letters and weaker upper squares from earlier plate repair. Rare usage. (Ref 84293).