Sale 1315 — The Eugene L. Grace Collection of United States and Confederate States Stamps and Covers
Sale Date — Tuesday-Thursday, 12-14 March, 2024
Category — 1851-56 Issue
1c Blue, Ty. I (5). Position 7R1E, enormous margins all around, leaving every element of the complete design intact as well as a portion of adjoining stamp below, beautiful bright early shade and impression, lightly cancelled by blue circular grid of small squares, faint pressed horizontal crease at bottom (visible only in fluid) and a tiny tear at center of top margin well clear of line
EXTREMELY FINE APPEARANCE. ONLY POSITION 7R1E--THE SEVENTH STAMP IN THE RIGHT PANE OF PLATE 1 EARLY--FURNISHED IMPERFORATE 1851 ONE-CENT STAMPS SHOWING THE COMPLETE DESIGN (TYPE I). VERY FEW OF THE CONFIRMED EXAMPLES OF THIS STAMP HAVE MARGINS CLEAR OF THE DESIGN ON ALL SIDES. A MAGNIFICENT EXAMPLE OF ONE OF THE RAREST AND MOST DESIRABLE CLASSIC UNITED STATES STAMPS.
The published census compiled by Jerome S. Wagshal, available at https://siegelauctions.com/census/us/scott/5, contains at least 98 unduplicated records of Scott 5. There are probably no more than ten examples existing outside of the Wagshal census population. Therefore, the 1c 1851 Type I is the rarest of all United States stamps issued regularly prior to the 1868 Grills.
Because of the significance attached to the outer portions of the 1c 1851 design, rare types that have been carefully cut apart, so as not to impinge on any part of the design, are extremely desirable. The narrow spacing between stamps in the sheet and the users' indifference to the outlying ornamentation during separation are factors that contributed to the great rarity of four-margin examples. Time has also not been kind to the surviving population, as very few are sound.
This stamp was the top position in a vertical strip of three contained in the Caspary collection. Sometime between the 1956 Caspary sale and the 1988 Clifford C. Cole sale held by the Siegel firm, the lower pair was removed. Based on appearance alone, this is arguably the finest 1c 1851 Type I known.
Wagshal census no. 5-CAN-030. Ex Caspary (as top stamp in a strip of three), Cole and Zoellner. With 1988 and 1998 P.F. certificates.
1c Blue, Ty. Ib (5A). Position 9R1E, large margins to clear including top sheet margin, deep rich color, neat strike of grid cancel
EXTREMELY FINE. A BEAUTIFUL USED EXAMPLE OF THE RARE 1851 ONE-CENT TYPE Ib. AN EXTREMELY RARE STAMP IN SOUND CONDITION AND WITH FOUR MARGINS.
Type Ib was produced only as an imperforate stamp from Plate 1 Early. Six positions on Plate 1E furnished stamps qualifying as Type Ib -- Positions 3-6R and 8-9R -- distinguished by the complete design at top and nearly complete design at bottom. When first entered on the plate, these six positions (as well as 7R1E) had the complete design at top and bottom. However, unlike 7R, small portions of the bottoms were burnished away.
With 1997 P.F. certificate.
1c Blue, Ty. Ia (6). Position 98L4, large to huge margins, intense dark shade and detailed impression, red New York City carrier circular datestamp cancel
EXTREMELY FINE gem. ONE OF THE FINEST KNOWN EXAMPLES OF THE IMPERFORATE TYPE Ia STAMP and EXTREMELY RARE WITH the red carrier CANCELLATION.
Stamps printed from Plate 4 were issued in April, May and briefly in June 1857 before perforations were introduced. The relatively small number of imperforate Plate 4 stamps issued during this period explains the rarity and desirability of any of the imperforate stamp types produced from this plate (Ia, Ic, II, III and IIIa). The extremely rare Type Ia, showing the full design at bottom, was furnished only by 18 of the 200 subjects on Plate 4 (the remaining two bottom-row positions were sub-type Ic).
Ex Zoellner. With 1987 and 1998 P.F. certificates.
1c Blue, Ty. II (7). Plate 1E, huge to enormous margins including top sheet margin and adjoining stamps on other three sides, brilliant color and proof-like impression, well-struck small Boston "PAID" grid cancel which was only in use for a few months in 1851
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. THIS PHENOMENAL STAMP HAS ACHIEVED THE PERFECT GRADE OF GEM 100 FROM P.S.E. ONE OF THE FINEST EXAMPLES OF THE ONE-CENT TYPE II 1851 ISSUE IN EXISTENCE.
This example will appeal to the most fastidious collector looking for huge margins, an attractive cancel and overall brilliance.
With 2011 P.F. and 2013 P.S.E. certificates (Gem 100). Only three grade higher and four others share this desirable grade. These are small population numbers.
1c Blue, Ty. II (7). Plate 1E, pretty shade from an early impression, huge margins all around including significant portions of adjoining stamps at top and bottom, circular datestamp cancel and some manuscript at lower left
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A PHENOMENAL USED EXAMPLE OF THE 1851 ONE-CENT TYPE II, GRADED SUPERB 98 JUMBO BY THE P.F.
With 2009 P.F. certificate (Superb 98 Jumbo).
1c Blue, Ty. II (7). Positions 91-93L1E, horizontal strip of three, left stamp triple transfer, one inverted, large to huge margins all around, proof-like early impression and brilliant bright Plate 1 Early shade complemented by blue grid cancels, perfection
EXTREMELY FINE GEM MULTIPLE OF THE ONE-CENT 1851 IMPERFORATE FROM PLATE ONE EARLY, CONTAINING POSITION 91L1E, ONE OF THE COVETED INVERTED TRANSFER POSITIONS ON PLATE ONE.
The inverted transfers on Positions 71L, 81L and 91L1E were made after the top row of the right pane of Plate 1 Early was entered from the Type I single-relief transfer roll. According to Richard Celler's theory (see Siegel Encyclopedia at https://siegelauctions.com/legacy/1c1851.pdf ), the three inverted transfers were made from a Type I design 3-relief transfer roll as a sort of trial after the top row entries had been made and the plate was turned around 180 degrees. When another plate ("Plate 0") had to be discarded, the siderographer returned to Plate 1 and erased the three inverted transfers before completing the plate with entries surrounding 3R to 10R. Positions 71L and 81L are double transfers. Position 91L was entered a total of three times, so it is a triple transfer, one inverted. When the plate was reworked in 1852, 71L and 81L were re-entered (but not 91L), making them all triple transfers, one inverted.
Ex Newbury Part II (Siegel Sale 244, lot 126) and "European Connoisseur" who acquired this in the 1961 Newbury sale for $270. With 2016 P.F. certificate.
1c Blue, Ty. II (7). Three, Positions 13, 22 and 7L1E, large margins to just in, left stamp scissors-cut at top left, tied to piece by two neat strikes of "DUE/WAY 1c" in oval cancel of Mobile Ala., Very Fine example of this rare cancel, with 1999 P.F. certificate
1c Blue, Ty. II (7). Position 10L2, original gum, lightly hinged, massive margins all around including top right corner sheet margins, deep rich color and proof-like impression
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. the ultimate original-gum EXAMPLE OF THE 1851 ONE-CENT TYPE II, with corner SHEET MARGINs and GRADED GEM 100 jumbo by both p.s.e. and the p.f. this is the only stamp at this ultimate grade in the p.s.e. population report.
With two 1998 P.F. certificates -- first as a block of four and second as a pair. With 2016 P.F. (Gem 100 Jumbo) and 2008 P.S.E. certificates (OGph, Gem 100 Jumbo; unpriced in this top grade, SMQ $18,000 as Gem 100). This is the only example to achieve the ultimate of grades in the P.S.E. Population Report.
1c Blue, Ty. II (7). Position 60R2, large to huge margins all around including huge right sheet margin with "nter, Casilear & Co. BANK NOTE E" imprint and plate no. 2, neat strike of 1857 year-dated town datestamp, deep rich color
EXTREMELY FINE. A STUNNING 1851 IMPERFORATE ONE-CENT TYPE II WITH THE PLATE NUMBER FROM PLATE 2.
Collectors who want the finest or most unusual examples of the classic imperforate issues are often stymied by common stamps, such as Scott No. 7, because it is difficult to find one example that stands apart from the rest. One way is to find a copy showing parts of all surrounding stamps, which is usually "made" by cutting out a single from a large multiple. Another approach, which is more difficult, is to find the stamp from either a corner-margin position or with part of the imprint or plate number.
The rarity of sound, four-margin copies increases exponentially when restricted to corner-margin or imprint examples. Imprints are found along eight positions on the 1c 1851-57 plates (four at left and four at right), and there are four corners of the full plate of 200 (plus the interior gutter positions). Many stamps from those positions were trimmed close to the design. The plate number is found on only two positions, and the number is almost never encountered on surviving stamps.
Ex Col. Green, Hall and "Natalee Grace". With 2009 P.S.E. certificate (XF 90).
1c Blue, Ty. II (7). Plate 2, huge margins all around including significant portion of adjoining stamp at top, deep rich color, face free circular datestamp cancels
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. AN ABSOLUTELY STUNNING USED EXAMPLE OF THE 1851 ONE-CENT TYPE II, GRADED SUPERB 98 JUMBO BY P.S.E.
With 2001 P.F. and 2009 P.S.E. certificates (Superb 98 Jumbo). Only eight grade higher (five at 100 and three at 100J).
1c Blue, Ty. II (7). Plate 2, Jumbo margins all around including significant portions of adjoining stamps at sides and traces of adjoining stamps at the corners, radiant color, centrally struck town cancel leaves the vignette unobscured
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A STUNNING AND MASSIVE STAMP, WHICH HAS RECEIVED THE ULTIMATE GRADE FROM P.S.E. -- GEM 100 JUMBO.
Ex Kirke. With 1969 and 2010 P.F. certificates as a strip of three, this the middle stamp. With 2011 P.S.E. certificate (Gem 100 Jumbo; unpriced in SMQ above the grade of 98, SMQ $3,500.00 as 100). This is the highest grade possible and one of only three to achieve this grade. In addition, only five are graded 100, which is an excellent indication of how rare this stamp is in such perfect condition.
1c Blue, Ty. II (7). Positions 5/15R2, vertical pair, top stamp showing plate bruise above "P", huge margins all around including part of adjoining stamps at right and bottom, neat strike of Greenville circular datestamp, Extremely Fine Gem pair, remarkably beautiful and choice, ex Vogel, with 2009 P.S.E. certificate for block and 2011 P.F. certificate for pair (XF 90 XQ)
1c Blue, Ty. III (8). Position 61R4, showing wide breaks at top and bottom which is the defining characteristic of the type, unusually large margins all around including left interpane margin, face free strike of circular datestamp cancel
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A STUNNING USED EXAMPLE OF THE 1851 ONE-CENT TYPE III, GRADED SUPERB 98 BY P.S.E. -- THIS IS WITHOUT QUESTION ONE OF THE FINEST IN EXISTENCE. ONLY TWO GRADE HIGHER AND TWO OTHERS SHARE THIS DESIRABLE GRADE.
Type III is defined by breaks in the outer lines at both top and bottom. Many Type III stamps have breaks that were created or enlarged by plate wear. Since the wear occurred over a period of time, a majority of stamps of this type (both unused and used) have small breaks in at least one line. The stamp offered here, with unusually wide breaks at top and bottom, is an especially good example of the type.
With 1979, 1994 P.F. and 2020 P.S.E. certificates (Superb 98). Only two grade higher (both 98J) and two others share this lofty grade.
1c Blue, Ty. III-IIIa (8-8A). Positions 34-35L4, horizontal pair, huge and even margins all around, deep rich color and proof-like impression, two clear strikes of "Newport N.Y. Aug. 17" circular datestamp, Type III at left shows wide breaks at both top and bottom, Type IIIa at right shows wide break at top and complete outer line at bottom
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. AN OUTSTANDING COMBINATION PAIR OF THE ONE-CENT 1851 IMPERFORATE TYPES III AND IIIa WITH BEAUTIFUL MARGINS, COLOR, CANCELLATION AND IMPRESSIONS.
The Neinken book lists the left stamp (Position 34) as being Type IIIa. However, as the plate was used the outer line at bottom wore away, and the stamp became Type III. The combination of these types from Positions 34-35L4 is extremely rare in any form, but imperforate Plate 4 stamps are much rarer than perforated stamps from this plate.
Ex Floyd and Wingate. With 1999 P.S.E. and 2000 P.F. certificates. With 2018 P.S.E. certificate (XF-Superb 95; unpriced as a pair). For reference, a single of Scott 8 graded XF-Superb 95 catalogs $8,250.
1c Blue, Ty. IIIa (8A). Large to huge margins all around including part of adjoining stamp at left, deep rich Plate 4 color on bright paper, red grid and part of circular datestamp cancels
EXTREMELY FINE. A SUPERB USED EXAMPLE OF THE 1851 ONE-CENT TYPE IIIa, GRADED XF-SUPERB 95 BY P.S.E.
With 1985 Jakubek and 2020 P.S.E. certificates (XF-Superb 95). Only nine grade higher (highest is 98J) and eight others share this grade. This is only the second unduplicated example at this grade that we have offered.
1c Blue, Ty. IIIa (8A). Plate 4, large to huge margins including significant portion of adjoining stamp at left, showing wide break at top, deep rich color, unobtrusive cancel
EXTREMELY FINE. A BEAUTIFUL USED EXAMPLE OF THE 1851 ONE-CENT TYPE IIIa IMPERFORATE.
Ex Cipolla, Dr. Amonette and Bowman. With 1978, 1996 P.F. and 2007 and 2018 P.S.E. certificates (XF 90 Jumbo).
1c Blue, Ty. IIIa (8A). Positions 57-58R4, horizontal pair, huge margins all around including part of six adjoining stamps, deep rich color and proof-like impression, unobtrusive strikes of Texas circular datestamps
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A PHENOMENAL USED PAIR OF THE 1851 ONE-CENT TYPE IIIa, GRADED XF-SUPERB 95 BY THE P.F.
With 1987, 1989, 1991, 2005 and 2012 P.F. certificates (XF-Superb 95XQ). The "XQ" stands for "Extraordinary Quality".
1c Blue, Ty. IV (9). Position 6L1, recut once at top and twice at bottom, with huge sheet margin at top, original gum, lightly hinged, other margins also huge with portions of adjoining stamps, rich color
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. THE PERFECT UNUSED EXAMPLE OF THE ONE-CENT 1851 ISSUE TYPE IV, WITH HUGE MARGINS, LIGHTLY HINGED GUM AND RICH COLOR. THIS SUPERB STAMP HAS ACHIEVED THE ULTIMATE GRADE OF GEM 100 JUMBO FROM P.S.E.
Only 21 positions on Plate 1 Late are recut at top and twice at bottom.
With 2019 P.S.E. certificate (OGph, Gem 100 Jumbo; unpriced in SMQ above the grade of 100, SMQ $9,500 as 100). This is the highest grade possible and it is shared by only one other hinged stamp plus two Mint N.H.
1c Blue, Ty. IV (9). Recut once at top and bottom, enormous Jumbo margins all around including sheet margin at left and parts of five adjoining stamps, light strike of town datestamp, rich color
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A SUPERB EXAMPLE OF THE ONE-CENT 1851 TYPE IV, WHICH HAS BEEN AWARDED THE PERFECT GRADE OF GEM 100 JUMBO BY P.S.E.
Ex Vogel. With 2002 P.F. and 2011 P.S.E. certificates (Gem 100 Jumbo; unpriced in SMQ above the grade of 100, SMQ $2,750.00 as 100). This is the highest grade possible.
1c Blue, Ty. IV (9). Position 91R1L, recut once at top, Jumbo margins all around including left interpane margin with centerline, bottom margin is large enough to show the guide dot at the end of the centerline, also showing parts of the three stamps which adjoin this position, pretty shade, light strike of circular datestamp cancel
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A SUPERB EXAMPLE OF SCOTT 9, GRADED GEM 100 JUMBO BY P.S.E., FROM A DESIRABLE CORNER MARGIN PLATE POSITION SHOWING THE CENTERLINE.
The P.S.E. Population Report lists eleven used examples of Scott 9 in the grade of Gem 100 Jumbo. We have sold six others and none show any portion of the centerline.
With 2018 P.S.E. certificate (Gem 100 Jumbo; SMQ $2,750.00 as 100, unpriced in the Jumbo grade). This is the highest grade possible and it is shared by only ten others.
1c Blue, Ty. IV (9). Recut once at top and twice at bottom, Jumbo margins all around, deep rich color, face free cancels, Extremely Fine Gem, with 2001 P.F. and 2005 and 2012 P.S.E. certificates (Superb 98 Jumbo)
1c Blue, Ty. IV (9). Horizontal pair, left stamp recut once at top and bottom, right stamp recut twice at top and once at bottom, huge margins including part of four adjoining stamps and right sheet margin, neat strike of New Orleans circular datestamp, Extremely Fine Gem, a phenomenal pair which may yield a Gem 100 single, with 2014 P.F. certificate
1c Blue, Ty. IV (9). Positions 21/31R1L, vertical pair, top stamp recut once at top and twice at bottom, bottom stamp recut once at top and bottom, huge margins all around including left interpane margin and centerline, parts of adjoining stamps at top and bottom, bright color nicely complemented by paint-red "Mobile Ala. Jan. 21" circular datestamps on small piece which was probably sent to France, part of French decimes due marking and French transit, Extremely Fine, a gorgeous piece, ex Vogel and "Golden Oak", with 2014 P.F. certificate
1c Blue, Ty. IV (9). Positions 38-40L1L, horizontal strip of three, large to huge margins including parts of six adjoining stamps at top and bottom and interpane margin at right, brilliant color and impression which is most unusual for Plate 1 Late printings, perfectly-struck "New York Nov. 1" circular datestamps
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A SUPERB AND SPECTACULAR USED STRIP OF THE 1851 IMPERFORATE ONE-CENT TYPE IV.
Philatelists who study and collect multiples will appreciate the extreme rarity of this used strip of the 1851 1c Type IV. Perhaps because the flanking stamps at left and right are equals to the spectacular center stamp, this strip was not cut to furnish a Jumbo single. Combining the enormous margins with brilliant color and the sharpest strikes of the New York City datestamp we have encountered, this strip offers everything to the condition-conscious collector.
Ex Vogel. With 2007 P.S.E. and 2015 P.F. certificates.
3c Orange Brown, Ty. II (10A). Position 72R0 noted on back, Jumbo margins with large portions of adjoining stamps at sides, spectacular color, cancelled by two strikes of San Francisco circular datestamp, wonderfully fresh
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A SUPERB USED EXAMPLE OF THE 1851 3-CENT ORANGE BROWN, GRADED SUPERB 98 JUMBO BY P.S.E. ONLY ONE GRADES HIGHER.
With 2014 P.S.E. certificate (Superb 98 Jumbo). Only one grades higher (at 100, we have never offered it) and three others share this desirable grade.
3c Deep Orange Brown, Ty. II (10A). Position 49L5E noted on back, large to huge margins including portion of adjoining stamp at left, exceptional depth of color and detailed impression, neat strike of California town cancel
EXTREMELY FINE GEM A SUPERB USED EXAMPLE OF THE 1851 3-CENT ORANGE BROWN TYPE II, SCOTT 10A, GRADED SUPERB 98 BY P.S.E.
With 2015 P.S.E. certificate (Superb 98). This is the only 10A graded 98 in the P.S.E. Population Report, only five grade higher (four at 98J).
3c Orange Brown, Ty. II (10A). Position 21R5E noted on back, huge margins all around including part of adjoining stamps on three sides and interpane margin at left showing full guideline, intense color and impression nicely complemented by red grid cancel, fresh and Extremely Fine, ex Haas, with 1993 P.F. certificate
3c Orange Brown, Ty. II (10A). Large margins to full including parts of adjoining stamps at top and left, rich color nicely contrasted by blue open grid cancel, fresh and Extremely Fine, with 1996 P.F. certificate
3c Orange Brown, Ty. II (10A). Large margins to just in at lower left, tied by bold strike of "DUE/WAY 1c" in oval handstamp on light green folded cover to Providence R.I., "Mobile Ala. Jan. 14" circular datestamp, 1852 docketing on back, Very Fine use of this scarce cancel, with 1998 P.F. certificate
3c Dull Red, Ty. I (11). Position 73R4, absolutely massive margins all around including significant portions of all eight adjoining stamps, brilliant color, crisp impression, circular datestamp cancel
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A STUNNING USED EXAMPLE OF THE 3-CENT 1851 ISSUE, GRADED GEM 100 JUMBO.
Ex Kirke. With 1983 P.F. and 2012 P.S.E. certificates (Gem 100 Jumbo; unpriced in SMQ above the grade of 100, SMQ $1,000.00 as 100). This is the highest grade possible and it is shared by only five others.
3c Dull Red, Ty. I (11). Huge margins all around including parts of seven adjoining stamps, bright color, light strike of circular datestamp and also with red "3" numeral cancel, Extremely Fine Gem, a stunning stamp, with 2011 P.S.E. certificate (Superb 98 Jumbo), only 13 grade higher
3c Dull Red, Ty. I (11). Vertical pair, huge margins all around, radiant color, two strikes of Ga. circular datestamp, Extremely Fine Gem pair, with 1993 P.F. certificate
3c Dull Red, Ty. II (11A). Enormous margins all around including huge left interpane margin and centerline, lightly cancelled by nearly face-free circular datestamp, bright shade and fresh paper, Extremely Fine Gem, a magnificent stamp, with 2015 P.S.E. certificate (Gem 100), only four grade higher
3c Dull Red, Ty. II (11A). From a bottom row position with enormous margins all around showing parts of five surrounding stamps and a portion of the bottom sheet margin, gorgeous shade and impression, cancelled by neat strike of blue Cincinnati circular datestamp, Extremely Fine Gem, perfection, ex Caspary and "European Connoisseur", with 2015 P.S.E. certificate (Gem 100), only four grade higher
3c Dull Red, Ty. II (11A). Huge margins all around including parts of four adjoining stamps, detailed impression, neat strike of R.I. circular datestamp, Extremely Fine Gem, with 2010 P.F. certificate (XF-Superb 95)
3c Dull Red, Ty. II (11A). Position 70L5 noted on back, huge margins including part of adjoining stamps at top and bottom and interpane margin with guideline at right, bold strike of Oct. 11 circular datestamp, Extremely Fine Gem, with 1997 P.F. certificate
3c Dull Red, Ty. II (11A). Horizontal strip of three, huge margins all around including parts of eleven adjoining stamps, rich color and detailed impression, neat strikes of blue Charleston circular datestamp and black Vera Cruz oval transit marking, Extremely Fine Gem, a phenomenal multiple with rich color, huge margins and Vera Cruz markings, ex Eubanks, with 2015 P.S.E. certificate (Gem 100; multiples are unpriced in SMQ)
3c 1851 Issue, Balance (10A/11A). Approximately 50 items on album pages, used singles, multiples and covers, No. 10A with two covers and one stamp on piece, each certified, the rest are 11/11A with a nice range including strips of three and four, numerous uses on piece in addition to covers, one piece with nice strike of West Hartford Conn. fancy box, one cover with Blood's Penny Post stamp, another cover with cameo corner card, some small faults to be expected but overall a very attractive 3c 1851 balance, one P.S.E. and nine P.F. certificates accompany, see our website PDF for a complete scan
5c Red Brown (12). Huge margins all around including significant portions of adjoining stamps at sides, radiant color on bright paper, unobtrusive strikes of New Orleans circular datestamp
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A STUNNING USED EXAMPLE OF THE 5-CENT 1856 ISSUE WHICH IS GRADED SUPERB 98 JUMBO BY P.S.E.
The 5c stamp was issued in 1856, five years after the 1c, 3c and 12c values and one year after the 10c were issued. It was typically used to pay the 5c shore-to-ship rate for mail sent overseas and also in multiples for the 10c transcontinental or 15c U.S.-French treaty rates. The short time frame of use and its use for specific limited purposes means that supplies were limited.
With 2006 and 2019 P.S.E. certificates (Superb 98 Jumbo). Only one grades higher and this 98J is shared by only four others.
5c Red Brown (12). Huge margins all around including significant portions of adjoining stamps at sides, radiant color on bright paper, unobtrusive circular datestamps and portion of red postmark at left
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A HUGE AND STUNNING USED EXAMPLE OF THE 5-CENT 1856 ISSUE. A TRULY EXCEPTIONAL EXAMPLE FOR THE PERFECTIONIST.
With 1999 P.F. and 2016 P.S.E. certificates (XF-Superb 95 Jumbo). We cannot explain why this was not graded Superb 98J.
5c Red Brown (12). Huge margins all around including small part of adjoining stamp at top, sheet margin at bottom and left interpane margin and centerline, incredibly rich color, light circular datestamps, Extremely Fine Gem, a phenomenal position piece, with 2016 P.F. certificate (XF-Superb 95 XQ), the "XQ" denotes extraordinary quality, which is clearly demonstrated by this example
5c Red Brown (12). Large and even margins all around, rich color, light strike of New Orleans circular datestamp, Extremely Fine Gem, with 2007 P.S.E. certificate (XF-Superb 95)
5c Red Brown (12). Horizontal pair, large even margins all around, beautiful warm shade, neat strike of "New Orleans La. May 21" circular datestamp
EXTREMELY FINE. A PRISTINE HORIZONTAL PAIR OF THE 5-CENT 1856 ISSUE.
Ex Mayer and Senchuk. Illustrated in the Mayer-Frajola book. With 2009 P.F. certificate.
10c Green, Ty. I (13). Position 100L1, enormous margins including right interpane margin with centerline, lightly cancelled by Philadelphia circular datestamp, bright shade and very fresh
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. AN OUTSTANDING SHEET-MARGIN EXAMPLE OF THE 1855 10-CENT TYPE I FROM THE BOTTOM RIGHT POSITION OF THE LEFT PANE, GRADED XF-SUPERB 95 BY P.S.E.
The 10c Type I is defined as having a complete shell at bottom right and was produced only from the bottom row of the plate (20 positions). Although Type I comes from sheet-margin positions, examples almost always have the extra sheet margin cut away. This stamp is the only centerline sheet-margin example of Scott 13 graded 95 or better. A Power Search review failed to locate another centerline sheet-margin stamp of this grade or comparable quality.
Ex "European Connoisseur". With 2015 P.S.E. certificate (XF-Superb 95).
10c Green, Ty. I (13). With stitch watermark, large to huge margins, rich color, light cancel (almost looks unused), fresh and Extremely Fine, with 1988 and 2010 P.F. certificates
10c Green, Ty. I (13). Positions 94-95L1, horizontal pair, large margins to full including parts of adjoining stamps at top, deep rich color, large Boston "Paid" grid cancels
VERY FINE-EXTREMELY FINE PAIR OF THE 10-CENT TYPE I 1855 ISSUE.
With 1987 and 2008 P.F. certificates.
10c Green, Ty. II (14). Position 51L1 with 26mm left sheet margin with "ENGRAVERS, Phila. New York, Bo" portion of imprint and "No. 1" plate number, mostly large margins on other sides, beautiful deep rich color and fine early impression, neat strike of town circular datestamp
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. THIS IS BY FAR THE FINEST KNOWN 10-CENT 1855 PLATE NUMBER SINGLE. A MAGNIFICENT STAMP AND ONE OF THE MOST DESIRABLE OFF-COVER 1851-56 ISSUE ITEMS IN EXISTENCE.
Plate 1 was the only plate used for imperforate 10c stamps issued in 1855 and 1856. It was also used for all 1857 perforated stamps until Plate 2 was created, which produced Type V perforated stamps exclusively (Scott 35).
Examples of classic imperforate stamps with intact sheet margins are rare, since the excess margin was normally trimmed off during distribution and use. Stamps showing any part of the imprint are much rarer, and those with the plate number intact are exponentially rarer.
Ex Emerson, Newbury, Neinken, Wall, Mason, Koppersmith, Sevenoaks, Hinrichs and "Natalee Grace". With 1971, 2004 and 2012 P.F. certificates (XF 90 XQ). The grade here is frankly irrelevant since in no way can it account for the 26mm sheet margin with part imprint and plate number.
10c Green, Ty. II (14). Position 9R1, huge margins all around including significant portions of adjoining stamps at sides, bright color, neat strikes of circular datestamp leave entire design clearly visible
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A PHENOMENAL EXAMPLE OF THE 10-CENT 1855 TYPE II, WHICH HAS BEEN GRADED SUPERB 98 JUMBO BY P.S.E. SUPERB IN EVERY RESPECT.
With 2015 P.S.E. certificate (Superb 98 Jumbo). Only one grades higher (at 100) and six others share this desirable grade.
10c Green, Ty. II (14). Enormous margins all around including part of adjoining stamp below, rich color, light face-free town datestamp, Extremely Fine Gem, remarkable margins and quality, ex "European Connoisseur", with 2015 P.S.E. certificate (Superb 98)
10c Green, Ty. II (14). Large margins all around, intense shade, neat strike of circular datestamp, Extremely Fine Gem, with 2006 P.S.E. certificate (XF-Superb 95)
10c Green, Ty. II (14). Large margins all around, bright shade, tied by red "UNITED STATES PAID 6d" double-line handstamp on blue piece, part of red circular datestamp at left, Extremely Fine use to Canada or Canadian Provinces, with 1990 P.F. certificate
10c Green, Ty. II (14). Horizontal pair, Jumbo margins all around including parts of adjoining stamps at bottom, deep shade on bright white paper, light grid cancels, Extremely Fine Gem pair, superb in every respect, ex Kirke, with 2003 P.F. and 2010 P.S.E. certificates (XF-Superb 95 Jumbo; pairs unpriced in SMQ), this is the highest grade awarded to a pair and no others share this grade
10c Green, Ty. II (14). Horizontal pair, large and well-proportioned margins all around, deep rich color, Extremely Fine Gem, a superb pair, with 1986 P.F. and 2016 P.S.E. certificate (XF-Superb 95; pairs unpriced in SMQ)
10c Green, Ty. II (14). Horizontal pair, enormous margins all around, bright shade, lightly struck San Francisco circular datestamp, Extremely Fine Gem, a stunning pair, ex "Sevenoaks", Twigg-Smith and Mayer, with 2002 P.F. and 2017 P.S.E. certificates (XF 90; multiples unpriced in SMQ)
10c Green, Ty. II (14). Positions 55-57R1, horizontal strip of three, large to huge margins all around, red cancels and blue manuscript "Dec. 17th", fresh and Extremely Fine, a beautiful strip, with 1996 P.F. certificate
10c Green, Ty. II/III (14/15). Vertical pair, top stamp Type II, huge margins all around including left sheet margin, deep rich color, light strike of Sep. 21, 1857 circular datestamp, Extremely Fine Gem pair and a late use, the earliest documented use of the perforated Type II and III stamps is July 27 and August 8, 1857, ex Eubanks, with 1989 P.F. and 2017 P.S.E. certificates (XF 90; multiples unpriced in SMQ), Scott value $325
10c Green, Ty. III (15). Position 41L1, huge margins all around, light strike of town datestamp, bright paper, Extremely Fine Gem, ex Kingsley and Curtis, with 2006 P.S.E. certificate (Superb 98), only nine grade higher (five at 98J, four at 100) and only seven others share this desirable grade
10c Green, Ty. III (15). Huge margins all around including left sheet margin and part of adjoining stamps at top and right, rich color, neat strike of New Orleans circular datestamp, Extremely Fine Gem, with 2017 P.F. certificate (XF-Superb 95 Jumbo)
10c Green, Ty. III (15). Large and even margins, bright color nicely complemented by blue grid cancel, fresh and Extremely Fine with 1988 and 2010 PF. certificates (XF 90)
10c Yellowish Green, Ty. III (15). Horizontal pair, Jumbo margins including portions of adjoining stamps at top, rich color, New Orleans datestamp cancel, Extremely Fine Gem, a superb pair, ex Kirke, with 1985 and 2003 P.F. and 2010 P.S.E. certificates (XF-Superb 95 Jumbo; pairs unpriced in SMQ), this is the highest grade awarded to a pair and the sole example to achieve this grade, Scott value $310
10c Green, Ty. III (15). Positions 24-25L1, horizontal pair, large even margins, tied on small blue piece by Mobile Ala. circular datestamp, Extremely Fine, ex Levi and Wagshal, with 2007 P.F. certificate
10c Green, Ty. IV (16). Position 76L1, recut at bottom, huge Jumbo margins with large portions of two adjoining stamps, deep rich color, neat grid cancel
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A SPECTACULAR USED EXAMPLE OF THE 1855 10-CENT IMPERFORATE TYPE IV, GRADED xf-SUPERB 95 jumbo BY P.S.E. AN OUTSTANDING CONDITION RARITY.
10c 1855 Type IV stamps are defined by the recut of one or both outer lines at the top or bottom of the design. Type IV stamps come from only seven scattered positions on the left pane and one position on the right pane of Plate 1. Therefore, only 4% of the stamps from Plate 1 are Type IV.
With 1992 P.F., 1990 and 2021 P.S.E. certificates (XF-Superb 95 Jumbo). Only two grade higher (at 98) and one other shares this grade.
10c Green, Ty. IV (16). Position 74L1, recut at top, huge margins all around including parts of adjoining stamps at sides, rich color and proof-like impression on bright paper, bold strikes of circular datestamp
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A SUPERB USED EXAMPLE OF THE IMPERFORATE TYPE IV 10-CENT 1855 ISSUE, GRADED XF-SUPERB 95 BY P.S.E.
Ex Bowman. 1985 P.F. certificate no longer accompanies. With 1995 P.F. and 2007 P.S.E. certificates (XF-Superb 95). Only four grade higher (two at 95J and two at 98).
10c Green, Ty. IV (16). Position 3R1, recut at top, the misplaced relief position showing breaks in lines above each "X", huge margins, rich color on bright paper, nicely complemented by blue circular datestamp at left which leaves entire design clearly visible
EXTREMELY FINE. A BEAUTIFUL USED EXAMPLE OF THE IMPERFORATE TYPE IV 10-CENT 1855 ISSUE FROM THE MISPLACED RELIEF POSITION -- THE ONLY RECUT POSITION ON THE RIGHT PANE OF THE PLATE.
The first 10c plate of 200 (left and right panes of 100) was laid down using a three-subject transfer roll with relief types A, B and C. The C Relief was used only for the bottom row (all Type I design). The A Relief (Type II design) was used to enter the entire second row, and the B Relief (Type III design) was used for the third row. This A/B alternating relief pattern was followed consistently for the fourth through ninth rows. The top row was entered with the A Relief, except for three positions: Positions 1 and 2 in the left pane, and Position 3 in the right pane. These “misplaced reliefs” are B Reliefs, and Positions 1L and 2L are Type III designs, while Position 3R was recut (Type IV).
Position 3R1, one of the three misplaced relief positions on the plate, is also one of eight recut (Type IV) positions and the only recut position on the entire right pane of the plate.
Ex "Clipper City". With 1991, 2006 and 2017 P.F. certificates (XF 90).
12c Black (17). Jumbo margins all around including right interpane margin with centerline and parts of adjoining stamps on other sides, deep shade and crisp impression on bright white paper, light circular datestamp
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. WITHOUT QUESTION ONE OF THE FINEST USED SINGLES OF THE 12-CENT 1851 ISSUE EXTANT. THIS MAGNIFICENT STAMP HAS BEEN GRADED GEM 100 JUMBO BY P.S.E. -- THIS IS ONE OF ONLY THREE EXAMPLES TO ACHIEVE THIS ULTIMATE GRADE.
Many collectors have a tendency to discount how difficult it is to find imperforate classics in such superb condition. The assumption is that there are multiples which can be split to "make" perfect singles. However, one would need a lightly-cancelled block of nine or sheet margin block of six, with no wrinkles or other minor defects, to produce a single such as the one offered here. This is the third example of Scott No. 17 graded Gem 100 Jumbo we have offered. We feel that this example slightly edges out the other two which have bolder cancellations.
With 2016 P.F. (Gem 100 Jumbo) and 2005 P.S.E. certificates (Gem 100 Jumbo; unpriced in SMQ above the grade of 100, SMQ $5,750 as 100). Only two others have achieved the ultimate Gem 100 Jumbo grade (both used).
12c Black (17). Enormous even margins all around including part of right sheet margin and parts or traces of four surrounding stamps, deep shade and lightly cancelled by blue circular datestamp
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A SPECTACULAR LARGE-MARGINED USED EXAMPLE OF THE 12-CENT 1851 ISSUE, CANCELLED IN BLUE AND GRADED SUPERB 98 BY P.S.E.
While Superb 98 is an exceptionally high grade for any 12c 1851 Issue, frankly we are surprised this stamp did not earn the P.S.E. "Jumbo" appellation, which would have increased its SMQ value from $2,750.00 to $4,000.00. Considering the width of the margins, the buyer of this stamp will acquire a true Jumbo example without factoring the P.S.E. premium for Jumbo into the equation.
Ex Caspary (where it realized $280) and "European Connoisseur". With 2015 P.S.E. certificate (Superb 98)
12c Black (17). Horizontal pair, large to huge margins including bottom right corner sheet margins, cancelled by light black Philadelphia circular datestamp, also cancelled by red "19" credit datestamp and red Liverpool transit, bright and fresh, Extremely Fine, an especially handsome pair, ex Hansen, signed Richter and with 2002, 2008 P.F. and 2017 P.S.E. certificates (VF-XF 85; unpriced as a pair in SMQ)
12c Black (17). Horizontal pair, huge margins all around including significant portion of adjoining stamp at left and parts of two adjoining stamps at top, bold strike of circular datestamp, Extremely Fine Gem pair, with 1997 P.F. and 2007 P.S.E. certificates
12c Black (17). Vertical pair, large margins all around including part of adjoining stamp at top, crisp impression, bold grid cancels, Very Fine and choice, vertical pairs are significantly scarcer than horizontal pairs, ex "J & J" collection, with 2006 P.F. certificate
12c Black (17). Positions 59-60/69-70R1, block of four from the right side of Plate 1, huge margins all around including sizable portion of right sheet margin and large parts of adjoining stamps below, cancelled by neat strikes of "New-York Mar. 14" circular datestamp, razor-sharp impression and crisp shade, bright white paper
EXTREMELY FINE GEM. THIS IS THE FINEST KNOWN USED BLOCK OF THE 12-CENT 1851 ISSUE. A MAGNIFICENT CLASSIC IMPERFORATE MULTIPLE AND EXTREMELY RARE IN SOUND CONDITION.
Despite the existence of a fair number of used blocks of the 12c 1851 Issue, or perhaps because of it, collectors fail to appreciate the extreme rarity of used blocks in sound condition with four full margins. A review using Power Search will reveal the blocks sold through our auctions over many years, almost all of which are cut in or have faults, and none of which can be compared to the block offered in this sale. We feel confident in describing this block as the finest used multiple extant.
Ex Emerson and Lehman (as a block of six). Ex "European Connoisseur" as this block of four. With 2016 P.S.E. certificate.