15c Brown & Blue, Ty. I (118). Perfectly centered with Jumbo margins, deep rich colors and proof-like impressions, unobtrusive strike of quartered cork cancel leaves design clearly visible

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. A PHENOMENAL USED EXAMPLE OF THE 15-CENT TYPE I 1869 PICTORIAL ISSUE WHICH HAS BEEN GRADED SUPERB 98 JUMBO BY P.S.E. THIS IS THE HIGHEST GRADE AWARDED.

In his book on the 1869 Pictorial Issue, Jonathan Rose notes that essays were made for both the Type I and II designs prior to the time the stamps were issued. The stamps were fed through the press twice -- first for the vignette and then for the frame. The challenge for the pressmen was to properly align the vignette when printing the frame. Apparently, the addition of the diamond marker at top center of the Type II design made it easier to accomplish this task. It also made any misalignment less noticeable. Type II stamps quickly replaced Type I.

With 1989 P.F. and 2008 P.S.E. certificates (Superb 98 Jumbo; unpriced in SMQ above the grade of 98, SMQ $12,000.00 as 98). This is the highest grade awarded and it is shared by only one other (offered in our Kirke sale)

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