2c Pan-American, Center Inverted (295a). Original gum, small hinge mark, bright frame color and sharp vignette impression, superb centering with extraordinarily wide margins all around, long fully-formed perforations, tiny “f ” handstamp on back corner

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. THE FINEST RECORDED EXAMPLE OF THE 2-CENT PAN-AMERICAN INVERT WITH ORIGINAL GUM AND THE ONLY COPY CERTIFIED SUPERB 98 BY PROFESSIONAL STAMP EXPERTS.

A survey of the Levi records produced 64 single unused stamps (excluding the block of four and rejoined block of four). Many of these were described in auction catalogues more than 40 years ago; therefore, the determination of soundness is uncertain. However, assuming the old descriptions were reaffirmed today, approximately 45% of singles across all centering categories have faults.

Of the single stamps with Extremely Fine centering (a minimum grade of 85), we counted 13 sound and 9 with faults. There is no other stamp in the Levi records that we think would achieve a grade of Superb 98 or better. Therefore, it is our contention, backed by the PSE Population Report, that the stamp offered here is the finest original-gum example of the 2c Pan-American Invert extant.

With 2013 Philatelic Foundation certificate as “Genuine, previously hinged” with a grade of Superb 98. With 2013 Professional Stamp Experts certificate (1201453), which states “genuine unused, o.g., previously hinged” with a grade of Superb 98, Mint OGph.

The grade of Superb 98 is the highest for Scott 295a in the PSE Population Report, and this is the only stamp to receive it. The next highest grade awarded to Scott 295a in any category is Extremely Fine 90 (three stamps, all OGph).

Unpriced in Superb 98 grade in either the 2013 Scott U.S. Specialized Catalogue or Stamp Market Quarterly. The Scott Catalogue Graded and SMQ values for XF 90 are $120,000 and $130,000, respectively. This stamp is two full grade levels above 90.

Click here for an introduction to the 1901 Pan-American Issue: http://siegelauctions.com/2013/1052/1901_Intro.pdf

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