12c Black (17). Phenomenally huge margins all around, including sheet margin at top and parts of four adjoining stamps, bright shade and crisp impression, grid cancels frame Washington's face, part of red circular datestamp cancel at bottom left

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. WITHOUT QUESTION ONE OF THE FINEST USED SINGLES OF THE 12-CENT 1851 ISSUE EXTANT. THIS MAGNIFICENT STAMP HAS BEEN GRADED GEM 100 JUMBO BY P.S.E. -- THIS IS ONE OF ONLY THREE EXAMPLES TO ACHIEVE THIS ULTIMATE GRADE.

Many collectors have a tendency to discount how difficult it is to find imperforate classics in such superb condition. The assumption is that there are multiples which can be split to "make" perfect singles. However, one would need a lightly-cancelled block of nine or sheet margin block of six, with no wrinkles or other minor defects, to produce a single such as the one offered here.

Ex Lehman, Haas, Morris and Tahoe. With 1993 P.F. and 2008 P.S.E. certificates (Gem 100 Jumbo; unpriced in SMQ above the grade of 98, SMQ $2,900.00 as 98). Only three 12c 1851's have achieved the unbeatable Gem 100J grade (all used). There are no Gem 100 examples without the Jumbo appellation.

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