Jusqu-a Airmail Markings- A Study Ian Mcqueen [top]

Ian McQueen's "Jusqu'à" Airmail Markings: A Study is the definitive guide to 20th-century postal instructions that directed mail to be carried by air only until a specific destination. The book is an essential tool for aerophilatelists, offering a classification system, historical context for 1930s-1950s air routes, and a rarity guide for valuing and authenticating covers.

The "Jusqu’à" handstamp instructed postal clerks exactly where the flight ended. For example, a letter from London to Sydney might be marked "Jusqu’à Karachi," Jusqu-a Airmail Markings- A Study Ian McQueen

While not a price list, McQueen’s scarcity ratings (Rare, Very Scarce, Common) are the basis for all modern pricing. A cover with a Jusqu’à Saigon marking (rated ‘Extremely Rare’ by McQueen) recently sold at a David Feldman auction for over €4,000. A common Jusqu’à Natal on a late 1930s cover might bring $150-$300. Ian McQueen's "Jusqu'à" Airmail Markings: A Study is

• The South Atlantic Route (France to South America): The most common and diverse. Markings include Jusqu’à Natal (Brazil’s northeastern hump), Jusqu’à Rio, and Jusqu’à Buenos Aires.
• The Mediterranean & Levant (France to Middle East): Markings like Jusqu’à Beyrouth (Beirut) or Jusqu’à Damas reflected the overland desert crossings.
• The African Network (France to West/Central Africa): Markings such as Jusqu’à Dakar or Jusqu’à Brazzaville.
• The Far East (Marseille to Indochina): Extremely rare. Examples include Jusqu’à Saigon or Jusqu’à Hanoi.

Why were they needed?

• Fig. 1: 1931 cover Paris–Bangkok, violet Jusqu’à Saigon
• Fig. 2: Label variety Jusqu’à Singapore (gummed, orange)
• Fig. 3: Forged Jusqu’à Calcutta – microprinting detected

In the early to mid-20th century, airmail networks were inconsistent and expensive. A sender might pay the airmail surcharge for a trans-oceanic flight but not for the subsequent rail or sea transport in the destination continent. The Directive: The South Atlantic Route (France to South America):

Authenticity check:

The study begins with an introduction to airmail markings and their significance in postal history. McQueen then provides an in-depth examination of the "Jusqu'a" markings, including their origins, usage, and variations. The book is richly illustrated with high-quality images of postal items, markings, and other relevant materials, which helps to facilitate understanding and identification.