Founded over 120 years ago, the RPSV believed it was important to build and maintain an extensive forgeries collection, especially when the RPSV commenced their expertisation service in 1950.
The forgeries collection is in twelve volumes, with Volume 1 devoted to Australia and the colonial issues. Volumes 2-4 cover Great Britain and the British Empire. Many other countries are represented in the other eight volumes, including many Sperati forgeries. Many genuine stamps are mounted alongside the forgeries. The contents were primarily donated by members over the years, with some examples that received negative opinions from the Expert Committee over the years. Other genuine stamps showing masterful repairs or stamps enhanced by chemical improvements are showcased to highlight what it is possible to produce by unscrupulous forgers.
Viewing of the forgeries collection is available at Purves House, 303 High Street, Ashburton by prior arrangement. Additions are always welcome.
