Ordnance Survey one-inch Seventh Series : Bi-centenary Limited Edition, 1991.

To celebrate their Bi-centenary in 1991, the Ordnance Survey put together 65 sets of the old one-inch Seventh Series, of which 60 numbered sets were sold. Each set of 189 paper flat maps is held within a specially made, archival quality, maroon leather style presentation case, which is most attractive and enables all sheets to be kept flat, as printed. The box is essentially 36" by 40", with a thickness of about 3".

Sheet 137 was lacking from the maps previously set aside, and not only had to be re-printed, but re-formated, so to speak, and is unique in this series by having a 1991 printing date.

For the set, Richard Oliver prepared a special edition of his booklet giving the history of the series and a listing of states of each sheet, which is in an attractive Seventh Series style red and yellow cover.

My understanding is that when the decision was taken introduce the 1:50,000 scale, it was decided to put away flat sets of the Seventh Series, to be used for a special occasion in the future. I believe that 100 copies of each sheet were set aside.

When the Ordnance Survey came to assemble the sets in 1991, they found that only 65 sets in mint condition had survived, and that no copies of sheet 137 had been set aside. This had to be printed again, using information from the old job files.

Only 60 sets were offered for sale, and as more than 60 applications were received, a draw was held to decide who could buy a set.

All maps, book and case are in as new condition. The case has one small light white mark on the front, otherwise is excellent. The sets were originally offered in 1991 at £1,250.

Our price is £1,200, with delivery to be discussed.

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