5c Gray Brown, Special Printing (205C). Without gum as issued, deep rich color and proof-like impression, almost perfectly centered

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. ONE OF THE FINEST OF THE 21 RECORDED EXAMPLES OF THE 5-CENT GARFIELD 1882 SPECIAL PRINTING.

This elusive Special Printing was the subject of an informative article by William E. Mooz in the Chronicle, February 1992. His research provides strong evidence that the stamps recognized as Scott 205C are a small part of the 2,463 sold as Special Printings through the Third Asst. PMG, and that regular issues were used to fill the backlog of orders for the 5c Garfield.

Our census of Scott 205C (available at http://www.siegelauctions.com/dynamic/census/205C/205C.pdf ) illustrates the 21 recorded examples (only three have faults).

Census No. 205C-UNC-13. Ex "Vineyard" and "Laila". Signed in pencil "SA" (Spencer Anderson). With 1993 and 2004 P.F. and 2009 P.S.E. certificates (XF-Superb 95; SMQ $120,000.00). This is the highest grade awarded and it is shared by only one other.

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