(1c) Dull Blue, Franklin Carrier, Plate Proof on Stamp Paper (LO1P var). Positions 17-18L with horizontal plate crack, ample margins to slightly in at top

FINE-VERY FINE. A PREVIOUSLY UNREPORTED PROOF IMPRESSION OF THE FRANKLIN CARRIER STAMP ON LIGHTLY-TINTED STAMP PAPER. THE PRESENCE OF THE PLATE CRACK IN ITS EARLY STATE OF DEVELOPMENT POINTS TO AN EARLY IMPRESSION.

The 1851 Franklin Carrier plate prepared by Toppan, Carpenter, Casilear & Co. was marred by a large, nearly horizontal crack across six stamps in the second row from the top (Positions 18-20L and 11-13R). As the plate wore, the crack extended further into the two adjoining positions at left and right (17L and 14R). The plate crack is found on original proofs, issued stamps and reprint proofs. The reprint proofs show the crack in its later, more extended state. The Orange trial color proof is found with the plate crack in its early state (see Hall collection, Siegel Sale 830, lot 1). It is significant that the crack on this proof pair is from the early state.

When the Post Office Department arranged to make the reprints in 1875, a trial impression on lightly-tinted paper was sent for approval. The sample was rejected, because the paper was not the correct shade of Rose. It is possible that this proof comes from the rejected proof sheet

A fascinating item that is extremely rare

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