both forms and envelopes show the image of a Bluebird (although flying in opposite directions);
the main distinctions amongst the varieties are:
Form 39A: text at base;
Form 39B: smaller and text moved to be under heading;
Cover E-39A:
opaque envelope;
Cover E-39B: window envelope with no border;
Cover E-39C: window envelope with blue border and Form number TG. 65P;
Cover E-39D:
window envelope with blue border and Form number TG. 65H.
The Bluebird design replaced the previous 1934 Scroll design in late 1938 - not early 1939 as previously considered.
An alternative, smaller size was introduced in 1941 as a war-time economy measure (AB-GBF-39B).
The telegram delivery forms with ornamental designs were all discontinued in 1942 also as part of the War effort.
Thanks to Ross Ewington of Tasmanian Stamp Auctions for finding this early date and letting me know.
AB-GBF-39A.
Moonah to Hobart 17 December 1938.
Earliest recorded date.
Characteristics:
size is 152 × 202 mm;
has line of text at base;
line under heading contains "Words" and "Time Lodged";
AB-GBF-39B.
Melbourne to Elwood 10 February 1942
with a scarce oval P&T date stamp.
Characteristics:
size is smaller at 115 × 190 mm;
line of text at base has been moved to be under the heading;
line under heading contains "No. of Words" and a change to "Time of Lodgement";
hills in the background of the heading are lighter in colour and more distinguishable from the sky.
AB-GBE-39A.
Unused opaque delivery envelope.
Characteristics:
used 4 months after issue;
has form number TG. 65H.
AB-GBE-39B.
Unused window envelope.
Characteristics:
no border around the window.
form number is TG. 65P.
AB-GBE-39C.
Unused window envelope.
Characteristics:
navy blue border around the window;
form number is TG 65P. - the same number
as the window delivery envelope with no border (GBE-39B).
Used on 24 March 1939 at Elizabeth Street/Melbourne (date stamp on reverse).
AB-GBE-39D.
Characteristics:
very dark blue border around the window.
form number is TG. 65H. - the same number as
the opaque delivery envelope GBE-39A.
Details of use and rarity.
Form
sub-number
Schedule number
Earliest recorded date
Rarity rating
GBF-39A
None
17 December 1938 at Monah, Tas
Rated:
C as unused;
R if used on forms or on envelopes.
RR if a form and envelope are demonstrably tied together.
Thanks to Ross Ewington of Tasmanian Stamp Auctions for finding this early date and letting me know.
Used on 24 March 1939 at Elizabeth Street/Melbourne (date stamp on reverse).