McQueen’s study is lauded for its exhaustive classification of these often-confusing auxiliary markings. Because the did not formally regulate the appearance of these stamps, hundreds of variations emerged worldwide.
Jusqu'a airmail markings are highly sought after by philatelists due to their rarity and historical significance. McQueen notes that:
Ian McQueen (1919-1999) was not a mere collector; he was a meticulous postal historian. A Fellow of the Royal Philatelic Society London, McQueen specialized in the complex routes of the French Aéropostale and the early Pan American Airways. His approach was forensic: he did not simply list markings; he reconstructed the flight schedules, surcharge tables, and postal treaties that gave rise to them.
| Type | Format | Example | Period | |------|--------|---------|--------| | I | Handstamp, single line | Jusqu’à Marseille | 1928–1932 | | II | Handstamp, two lines | Jusqu’à / Brindisi | 1930–1935 | | III | Violet boxed | JUSQU’À ATHÈNES (all caps) | 1933–1939 | | IV | Label (gummed) | Jusqu’à Beyrouth | 1935–1940 | | V | Cachet with route code | Jusqu’à HK (Hong Kong) | 1937–1941 |
McQueen’s books break down the study by geographical regions, chronological periods, and the specific texts used in the handstamps. The listings include: Jusqu-a Airmail Markings- A Study Ian McQueen
It elevates these "instructional" stamps from secondary marks to primary objects of study.
McQueen's study of Jusqu'a Airmail Markings is a detailed and exhaustive analysis of these markings, covering their history, development, and use. Through his research, McQueen has identified and cataloged numerous examples of Jusqu'a markings, providing a comprehensive overview of their design, typography, and usage. His study also explores the historical context in which these markings were used, including the development of airmail service, the growth of international air transportation, and the social and economic factors that drove these developments.
Perhaps the most valuable asset of McQueen’s work is his mapping of postal routes. By analyzing the "Jusqu'à [City]" strike alongside backstamps and transit marks, McQueen could precisely reconstruct the historical flight paths of early aviation pioneers like Imperial Airways, Air Orient, and KLM. Collecting and Analyzing Jusqu'à Covers
“Jusqu’à [City Name]” (e.g., Jusqu'à Karachi or Jusqu'à London ) “Par avion jusqu'à...” “Air to [City Name] only” McQueen notes that: Ian McQueen (1919-1999) was not
Ian McQueen, through his meticulous study, rescued these administrative scribbles from obscurity. He proved that the smallest marking on a cover is often the most historically significant. Jusqu’a Airmail Markings: A Study is not just a catalog; it is a detective’s manual.
This book is primarily aimed at:
The French phrase "jusqu'à" translates literally to or "as far as." In the context of early and mid-20th-century postal history, these were operational handstamps applied to international mail by postal administrations.
I can provide more detailed context regarding the specific routes and postal rates associated with your item! Share public link | Type | Format | Example | Period
Jusqu'a Airmail Markings. (A Study) by MCQUEEN Ian | Pennymead Books PBFA. MCQUEEN Ian. Jusqu'a Airmail Markings. ( A Study) ABOUT-US - JUSQU'A MARKING
Here is an in-depth exploration of McQueen’s groundbreaking work and the historical significance of these elusive postal markings. What is a "Jusqu'a" Marking?
The study received positive attention from philatelic societies and journals. A book review in the ’s publication in November 1993 noted the work’s importance for students of international airmail. Similarly, the Canadian Aerophilatelist carried a review by Kendall C. Sanford, who concluded: “The book should stimulate interest in Jusqu’a Airmail markings, and I recommend it to all aerophilatelists”. Sanford also pointed out a minor weakness—the bibliography listed periodicals without volume or issue numbers, making it difficult to locate specific articles—but this did not detract from the study’s overall value.
Ian McQueen is a well-known and respected figure in the world of philately, with a particular expertise in airmail markings. With years of experience and research under his belt, McQueen has developed a comprehensive understanding of the history and development of airmail service, and has written extensively on the subject. His work on Jusqu'a Airmail Markings is considered definitive, and his research has shed new light on the use and significance of these markings.