1c Blue, Ty. III (8). Position 81L4, outstanding example of the type with very large breaks in both top and bottom outer lines, large to huge margins, deep rich color and proof-like impression, very lightly cancelled by town circular datestamp leaving the entire design virtually cancel free, fresh and bright

EXTREMELY FINE. THIS ONE-CENT 1851 ISSUE STAMP IS A VERY DESIRABLE "WIDE BREAKS" POSITION FROM PLATE 4 AND, WITH ITS LARGE MARGINS AND UNUSUALLY LIGHT CANCELLATION, DESERVES THE ATTENTION OF THE MOST DISCRIMINATING COLLECTOR.

Type III is defined by breaks in the outer lines at both top and bottom. Many Type III stamps have breaks that were created or enlarged by plate wear. Since the wear occurred over a period of time, a majority of stamps of this type (both unused and used) have small breaks in at least one line. The most notable exception is Position 99R2, which has the widest breaks of any Type III position, due to the short transfer during plate entry.

The example of the 1c 1851 Type III offered here is significant for several reasons. The breaks at top and bottom are so wide that they actually approach those of Position 99R2. The large margins and light cancellation also allow for easy observation of the type characteristics. All factors considered -- design, impression, margins and cancel -- this stamp is easily one of the finest in existence. The P.S.E. grade of XF 90 does not do it justice, and if one uses Power Search to compare this stamp to the others graded 90, it will be obvious that this stamp "blows them away."

Ex Newbury. With 2015 P.S.E. certificate (XF 90; SMQ $6,000.00).

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