3c Blue Green, Special Printing (169). Without gum as issued, full perforations all around and "No. 1" of imprint in selvage at bottom, rich color on bright paper

VERY FINE. THIS IS THE ONLY RECORDED EXAMPLE OF THE 1875 3-CENT CONTINENTAL SPECIAL PRINTING SHOWING ANY PORTION OF THE PLATE NUMBER. A PHENOMENAL RARITY.

Our recently updated records for Scott 169 contain 35 examples that have been certified as genuine by the Philatelic Foundation (including one on cover). Only a dozen have perforations intact on all sides, including three others originally in a strip with this stamp. Our photo records show that the Earl of Crawford strip from which this originated had a part imprint on the left two stamps (one ex Whitman), the third stamp without imprint, and the righthand stamp offered here with "No. 1".

Ex Earl of Crawford and Ackerman. With 1996 P.F. certificate

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