February 2002 Star item

Registered cover sent from Moscow to England in 1951. The franking includes an essay of the 1935 Spartakiade issue. Obviously a philatelic item, but probably unique.

There are a number of differences with the issued stamp (shown for comparison).

1) The size is 39x39mm instead of 45x 45mm
2) The narrow light coloured border between the main frame and the illustration is missing.
3) At top right, "1934"(!) instead of CCCP.
4) The colours are green & ultramarine instead of chocolate & ultramarine.
5) Perf. 10.5 instead of 14.

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Added by Andrew Cronin

Dear Norman, Congratulations on featuring your Watkins cover and also showing the differences between the essay and the issued stamp!