6c Carmine, Double Impression (148b). Clear and dramatic doubling of the entire design, cancelled by bold strike of quartered cork, matching "Stonington Ct. Feb. 15" double-circle datestamp on cover to Knowlsey, England, red Feb. 16 New York exchange office circular datestamp ties stamp, 1871 receiving backstamp, stamp with perf faults at upper right and small piece out at lower right, cover with edge flaws

FINE APPEARANCE. THIS IS THE ONLY EXAMPLE OF THE 6-CENT NATIONAL BANK NOTE COMPANY DOUBLE IMPRESSION CERTIFIED AS GENUINE BY THE PHILATELIC FOUNDATION. IT IS ALSO THE EARLIEST RECORDED USE.

Our list of double impressions is included as an appendix to this catalogue. Most double impressions occur when the first impression is made and found to be inadequate. The paper is then put in the press a second time, when it receives the heavier impression. It is a common misconception that the weaker impression is the second one.

Our census of potential examples of Scott 148b is available at our website at http://siegelauctions.com/dynamic/census/148b/148b.pdf and is also illustrated below. Of the three potential genuine examples, one received a certificate from the P.F. as a kiss print and a certificate from P.S.E. as a double impression. We have examined that stamp, and the engraving lines are of sufficient detail that we consider it to be a double impression. The third is a cover from the same correspondence as the one offered here, sent on Feb. 20, 1871, but it has not been seen since 1978. Therefore, there could be three copies of this rarity, of which only one has been conclusively certified as genuine.

With 2011 P.F. certificate. Scott Catalogue value is based on the sale price of the cover offered here.

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