New South Wales 1867 QV 10d De La Rue Sample Colour Die Proof

1867-93 QV 10d De La Rue SAMPLE COLOUR DIE PROOF taken in near-issued lilac on glazed card. Fresh and attractive. Scarce. There are conflicting opinions as to the purpose of these proofs originally thought to have been prepared for display at the 1871 Kensington Exhibition; more recently described as being part of the De La Rue sample colour standards.