Sale 1094 — The Curtis Collection: Back of Book and Possessions

Sale Date — Wednesday, 25 March, 2015

Category — Postage Due: 1879-91 Issues (Scott J1-J28)

Lot
Symbol
Photo/Description
Cat./Est. Value
Realized
42
og
Sale 1094, Lot 42, Postage Due: 1879-91 Issues (Scott J1-J28)1c Deep Brown, Special Printing (J8). Original gum, s.e. at right, radiant color and unmistakable impression of the Special Printing

FINE AND RARE EXAMPLE OF THE ONE-CENT POSTAGE DUE SPECIAL PRINTING.

The 1c, 2c and 3c are undoubtedly the rarest values of the American Bank Note Co. Postage Due Special Printings, although the sold quantities in the official records are relatively high. William E. Mooz, in an article on the 1c appearing in Chronicle No. 170, May 1996, offers evidence to support his theory that the actual number of true Special Printings sold was significantly lower than the reported figures. For the 1c, Mooz estimates 500 sold, but it is possible that as many as 400 purchased by G. B. Calman were destroyed. It is widely accepted that nearly 9,000 1c stamps sold as Special Printings were actually regular issues.

Ex Engel. With 1960 and 1999 P.F. certificates

22,500
4,250