2c Grand Canyon, Imperforate (741 var). Bottom plate no. 21261 block of 20 with part arrow, most stamps Mint N.H., h.r. at top right corner where sensibly sealing tear which is mostly in margin, radiant color, two scissors-cuts in margin at bottom right, small tear just below plate no., few natural gum bends and creases

VERY FINE. THE UNIQUE PLATE BLOCK OF THE REGULARLY-ISSUED 2-CENT NATIONAL PARKS IMPERFORATE. ONE OF THE GREATEST RARITIES OF THE ISSUE.

The 2c National Parks issue is listed in Scott as imperforate horizontally (Scott 741a) and imperforate vertically (Scott 741b). According to Johl, one pane was found completely imperforate. Johl also notes "For quite some time prior to the issuance of the Park stamps, most of the stamps printed at the Bureau had been prepared on the rotary press and perforated on the special perforators. Most of the help who had previously worked on the flat bed perforators had been transferred to other departments. The sudden demand for flat plate perforating necessitated recalling the personnel to the perforating department and it was some time before they again reached their former efficiency."

This great rarity should not be confused with the imperforate Farley reprints, some of which were gummed -- this plate number was not used for those later issues.

With 1935 A.P.S. certificate submitted by John B. Thayer of Philadelphia and signed by Eugene Costales, George B. Sloane and J. M. Bartels. With 1982 P.F. certificate. Unlisted in Scott.

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