12c Black (17). Positions 59-60/69-70/79-80R1, block of four from the right side Plate 1 Right, huge margins all around including sizable portion of right sheet margin and large parts of adjoining stamps below, cancelled by neat strikes of "New-York Mar. 14" circular datestamp, razor-sharp impression and crisp shade, bright white paper

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. THIS IS THE FINEST KNOWN USED BLOCK OF THE 12-CENT 1851 ISSUE. A MAGNIFICENT CLASSIC IMPERFORATE MULTIPLE AND EXTREMELY RARE IN SOUND CONDITION.

Despite the existence of a fair number of used blocks of the 12c 1851 Issue, or perhaps because of it, collectors fail to appreciate the extreme rarity of used blocks in sound condition with four full margins. A review using Power Search will reveal the blocks sold through our auctions over many years, almost all of which are cut in or have faults, and none of which can be compared to the block offered in this sale. We feel confident in describing this block as the finest used multiple extant.

Ex Emerson and Lehman (as a block of six)

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