COLLECTIBLE: 1854, 4a Red & Blue, 4th Printing, Head Die III, Frame Die II (6F; SG 23). Two singles, cut to shape, margins to touching at places, used with 1854, 2a Green (5; SG 31), margins to touching, tied by "17" diamond grid cancels on blue 1855 cover to Hobart, Van Dieman's Land, sender's directive "via Calcutta" and "per 1st opportunity to New South Wales", indistinct strike of Allahabad despatch datestamp on back, red "INDIA PAID" handstamp, Calcutta transit and "Ship Letter Inwards Free, 5 FE 5, 1855" arrival datestamps, the latter ties the 2a and one 4a, cover with couple adhesions and minute toned spots VERY FINE AND RARE COVER TO TASMANIA WITH THE 2-ANNAS AND 4-ANNAS 1854 ISSUE. Service to Australia on the Peninsular & Oriental Line was temporarily suspended in 1854 so that ships could be placed in service in the Crimean War. Mail during war period was reliant on private ships. The cover offered here was prepaid for the 2a inland rate plus 8a ship postage up to ½ oz. Ex Dr. Kornan.