8c Violet Brown, USIR Watermark (272a). Showing clear bold "R" of watermark, visible even without fluid, outstanding centering with wide and balanced margins, deep rich color, very light cancel

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A SUPERB USED EXAMPLE OF THE 1895 8-CENT WATERMARKED BUREAU ISSUE WITH "USIR" WATERMARK. EASILY ONE OF THE FINEST EXAMPLES EXTANT.

The "USIR" (United States Internal Revenue) watermark error occurred when a supply of paper reserved for revenue stamp production was used for printing the 6c and 8c postage stamps. There are approximately 75 known of the 8c, but many are either off-center or have flaws. Collectors prefer examples showing the "R" watermark, as this letter is unequivocally from "USIR", while a partial "P" (from "USPS") can sometimes fool collectors by appearing as an "I".

Ex "Alan". With 2009 P.S.E. certificate (XF-Superb 95). Only two stamps grade higher (at 95J) and only one other shares this grade. The other example graded 95, while also showing the more desirable "R" watermark, has a much heavier cancel than the example offered here. At least one of the two examples graded 95J shows the "I" of the watermark. The combination of the "R" watermark and light cancel arguably makes this the most desirable P.S.E. graded Scott 272a.

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